Significance of Selfishness
Selfishness, as defined across various philosophical teachings, denotes a behavior that prioritizes personal gain often to the detriment of others. Jainism critiques it as a foolish approach that neglects communal well-being, while the Arthashastra notes its transformation into more noble behavior. Within the Purana, selfishness is seen as a deep-rooted egoism leading to suffering and attachment. Dharmashastra and Theravada similarly emphasize the negative impacts of avarice and self-centeredness, advocating for an altruistic perspective that transcends personal desires.
Synonyms: Egoism, Self-centeredness, Egotism, Self-absorption, Self-interest, Greed
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Selfishness'
In Buddhism, selfishness embodies a self-centered mindset that harms others, reflects reluctance to share, and signifies a detrimental attachment to personal possessions and identity, contradicting true monk ideals, as highlighted in the Dhammapada.
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) An attachment to one’s own possessions and identity, which the Dhammapada verse states should be absent in a true monk.[1]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) The quality of caring solely for oneself, often leading to harmful actions towards others.[2]
From: Introducing Buddhist Abhidhamma
(1) The unwillingness to share or contribute positively to others.[3]
Hindu concept of 'Selfishness'
In Hinduism, selfishness encompasses avarice, personal gain, and egoism, hindering spiritual growth. It represents a self-centered approach that fosters emotional turmoil but can be transformed through understanding and overcoming desires, leading to spiritual wisdom.
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The tendency to act in one’s own interest at the expense of others, which diminishes in the understanding of a non-egoistic perspective.[4] (2) The act of prioritizing personal gain and ego over spiritual wisdom and disinterestedness.[5] (3) Selfishness, or egoism, drives the need for worldly attachments, and removing it uproots the illusions of the world.[6] (4) The deep-rooted tendency towards self-centeredness that causes anguish to the soul.[7]
From: The Markandeya Purana
(1) Selfishness is depicted as a negative trait that leads to unhappiness, especially for a householder as discussed by Madalasa.[8] (2) The condition of prioritizing one's own desires and attachments, often leading to emotional turmoil and suffering.[9]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The pursuit of personal gain, which is discouraged in the context of spiritual actions that should be free from desire.[10] (2) Avarice or excessive concern for one's own advantage at the expense of others.[11]
From: Hitopadesha (English translation)
(1) A quality the Tiger claims to have conquered, indicating a transformation from a negative trait to a more noble behavior.[12]
Jain concept of 'Selfishness'
In Jainism, selfishness is viewed negatively, contrasting with the rich and powerful's pursuits. It involves neglecting others' well-being for personal gain, deemed foolish and contrary to moral conduct.
From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)
(1) Selfishness is the behavior characterized by neglecting the well-being of others in pursuit of personal gain, which the text criticizes as a foolish approach to life.[13]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The trait described as contrary to the nature of the rich and powerful regarding their pursuits, indicating a moral lesson about conduct.[14]