Significance of Inferiority

In Jainism, inferiority is viewed as a state of being lesser and encourages individuals to discard those feelings. Meanwhile, Dharmashastra defines inferiority in two ways: it signifies either a lower quality or effectiveness compared to previous ages or a decline in status and quality, which is expected to become prominent during a societal shift. Both perspectives emphasize the negative implications of inferiority and suggest a movement towards transcending such states.

Synonyms: Subordination, Inadequacy, Deficiency, Insignificance, Mediocrity, Inferiority complex, Second-rate, Insufficiency

In Dutch: Minderwaardigheid; In Finnish: Alemmuus

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Inferiority'

Hinduism Books

Inferiority in Hinduism can be interpreted as a decline in quality or effectiveness from earlier ages, leading to a societal shift where status and overall quality diminish, highlighting the concern for spiritual and moral deterioration.

Significance in Dharmashastra (religious law):
Dharmashastra Books

From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi

(1) The state of being lower in status or quality, which would become prevalent in the described societal shift.[1] (2) The state of being of lower quality or less effectiveness compared to previous ages.[2]

Dharmashastra contains the instructions (shastra) regarding religious conduct of livelihood (dharma), ceremonies, jurisprudence (study of law) and more. It is categorized as smriti, an important and authoritative selection of books dealing with the Hindu lifestyle.

Significance in Ayurveda (science of life):
Ayurveda Books

From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences

(1) It refers to any substandard drug that does not meet the required quality standards.[3]

Ayurveda is a branch of Indian science dealing with medicine, herbalism, taxology, anatomy, surgery, alchemy and related topics. Traditional practice of Ayurveda in ancient India dates back to at least the first millenium BC. Literature is commonly written in Sanskrit using various poetic metres.

Jain concept of 'Inferiority'

Jainism Books

In Jainism, "Inferiority" denotes a perception of being lesser or subordinate, which the teachings advocate overcoming. This perspective emphasizes the importance of self-worth and equality, urging individuals to release these negative feelings.

Significance in Jainism (general):

From: Acaranga-sutra

(1) A state of being lesser or subordinate; the text encourages the casting off of such feelings.[4]

Jainism is an Indian religion of Dharma whose doctrine revolves around harmlessness (ahimsa) towards every living being. The two major branches (Digambara and Svetambara) of Jainism stimulate self-control (or, shramana, ‘self-reliance’) and spiritual development through a path of peace for the soul to progess to the ultimate goal.