Significance of Righteousness and Unrighteousness
Righteousness and Unrighteousness encompass the moral and ethical dichotomy guiding human actions and societal norms, as described in Purana and Kavya. They inform the distinction between right and wrong actions, shaped by moral values and the recognition of truth. In Kavya, these concepts are illustrated through symbols like the bull and donkey, depicting the ongoing battle between good and evil. This moral struggle is further exemplified by contrasting behaviors of the Kauravas and Pandavas, highlighting the consequences of adherence to or deviation from righteousness.
Synonyms: Virtue, Integrity, Justice, Morality, Ethics, Goodness, Piety, Uprightness, Rectitude, Immorality, Wickedness, Sinfulness, Injustice, Wrongdoing, vice, Corruption
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Righteousness and Unrighteousness'
In Hinduism, Righteousness and Unrighteousness define vital moral principles, representing the ethical dichotomy guiding human behavior, exemplified by symbols, discernment of actions, and narratives that highlight the conflict between good and evil.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Moral principles that are defined by adherence to Truth (Righteousness) and deviation from it (Unrighteousness).[1] (2) Concepts that can sometimes be confused or misinterpreted in complex situations.[2] (3) The moral and ethical dichotomy that governs human actions and societal norms.[3] (4) Concepts that are fundamental to moral and ethical considerations, which could cease to exist in the absence of the Brahmana.[4]
From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)
(1) Concepts that pertain to the moral correctness or incorrectness of actions, often judged through the lens of conscience and mental deities.[5] (2) Concepts used in the Gita to delineate right actions that align with moral values from wrong actions that cause harm.[6]
From: Padma Purana
(1) The moral understanding and discernment that a Vaishnava possesses, recognizing what is right and wrong.[7]
From: Markandeya Purana (Study)
(1) Concepts central to the narrative of Dattatreya’s role as an incarnation of Lord Vishnu to uphold dharma and thwart adharma.[8]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The moral principles governing good and evil, the decline of which prompted the divine intervention of Mahavishnu.[9]
From: Bhishma Charitra
(1) Themes present in the narrative that depict the moral battle between good (righteousness) and evil (unrighteousness) influencing the outcome of the war.[10] (2) The contrasting paths followed by the Kauravas and Pandavas in their conduct.[11]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) Symbolized by the bull and the donkey, representing the moral dichotomy in the actions of living beings.[12]
From: Ashtavakra Gita
(1) Concepts of moral judgment that are deemed irrelevant to the true self, which is beyond such dualities.[13]
From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)
(1) Moral qualities affecting societal health and stability; unrighteousness leads to chaos and destruction which can heighten the risk of epidemics.[14]