Significance of Reconciliation

Reconciliation is a multifaceted concept in various contexts, emphasizing the restoration of harmony following conflict or estrangement. In Vaishnavism, it signifies rebuilding connections after discord. Puranic texts portray it as renewing friendships, while Kavya refers to lovers reconciling. Theravada highlights various reconciliatory processes among individuals and monks, including royal resolutions and familial reunions. Indian history reflects on personal reconciliations, such as Raja Rao's acceptance of his choices and challenges faced by others in marital relationships. Overall, reconciliation is about resolving differences and restoring relationships.

Synonyms: Restoration, Settlement, Resolution, Agreement, Harmony, Conciliation, Mediation, Compromise, Reunion

In Dutch: Verzoening; In Finnish: Sovittelu; In Spanish: Reconciliación; In German: Versöhnung

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

Buddhist concept of 'Reconciliation'

Buddhism Books

Reconciliation in Buddhism encompasses the resolution of conflicts, exemplified by King Brahmadatta and Prince Maha Paduma's resolution, the monks of Kosambi's acknowledgment of errors, and the reunification of Vessantara with his family, fostering harmony and agreement.

Significance in Theravada (major branch of Buddhism):
Theravada Books

From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6

(1) The act of coming together after a period of separation or conflict, particularly illustrated by the reunion of Vessantara with his family.[1]

From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas

(1) The process through which King Brahmadatta and Prince Maha Paduma resolved their issues after the false execution order was lifted.[2]

From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)

(1) The process through which the monks of Kosambi resolved their conflicts after realizing their mistakes.[3]

From: Vinaya Pitaka (3): Khandhaka

(1) The process of restoring harmony or agreement among monks after a conflict or censure has occurred.[4]

Theravada is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).

Hindu concept of 'Reconciliation'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, Reconciliation involves restoring harmony after conflict, healing friendships despite deep injuries, and can also symbolize the renewal of love, as illustrated in the concluding themes of traditional love songs.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Mahabharata (English)

(1) The idea of restoring friendship after a conflict, which is deemed impossible following significant injuries.[5]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation

(1) The process of restoring harmony and connection after a period of estrangement or conflict.[6]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (‘ten avatars of Vishnu’).

Significance in Kavya (poetry):
Kavya Books

From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)

(1) The concluding portion of an old love song discusses the reconciliation of lovers.[7]

Kavya refers to Sanskrit poetry, a popular ancient Indian tradition of literature. There have been many Sanskrit poets over the ages, hailing from ancient India and beyond. This topic includes mahakavya, or ‘epic poetry’ and natya, or ‘dramatic poetry’.

The concept of Reconciliation in local and regional sources

History Books

Reconciliation in the text encompasses various facets: Raja Rao's acceptance of life choices, Lumley's temporary peace, Phoolwati's challenging return to her husband, C.P.'s vision for societal harmony, and the restoration of marital relations.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) The act of restoring friendly relations or resolving conflicts between individuals, particularly in a marital context.[8] (2) The process Lumley undergoes to find a semblance of peace, albeit one he knows is temporary and ultimately insufficient for happiness.[9] (3) C. P.'s belief in the necessity of harmony among differing political and social factions.[10] (4) The process that Phoolwati underwent to return to her husband's house after a period of separation, though it ultimately failed again.[11] (5) The eventual peace Raja Rao finds regarding his life choices, despite past regrets about not marrying Vijaya.[12]