Significance of Unrighteousness
Unrighteousness, as defined in Hinduism and related texts, encompasses a range of morally wrong actions and thoughts that lead to negative consequences. It is characterized by behaviors lacking moral integrity, evident in historical figures such as Duryodhana, whose unrighteousness contributed to his downfall. Additionally, unrighteousness is associated with social harm, confusion, and disobedience to moral laws, eventually resulting in divine punishment or societal destruction. This concept contrasts sharply with righteousness and is explored across various philosophical and spiritual traditions.
Synonyms: Injustice, Immorality, Wrongdoing, Wickedness, Sinfulness, Corruption, Vice, Evil, Depravity
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Unrighteousness'
Unrighteousness in Buddhism is depicted through Devadatta's morally corrupt actions aimed at seeking power, which ultimately lead to his downfall, contrasting sharply with the righteousness exemplified by the Bodisat.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The morally corrupt actions taken by Devadatta to gain following and prosperity, highlighting the ethical dichotomy in the narrative.[1]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) A conduct led by Devadatta resulting in him facing dire consequences, contrasting with the righteousness of the Bodisat.[2]
Hindu concept of 'Unrighteousness'
Unrighteousness in Hinduism encompasses actions lacking moral integrity, defaming others, and violating ethical standards. It leads to negative consequences, divine punishment, and societal downfall, ultimately opposing righteousness and moral order.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Actions or behaviors that oppose the principles of righteousness and moral order, often cloaked in the guise of righteousness.[3] (2) The lack of moral integrity observed in beings, leading to their downfall or destruction in battle.[4] (3) The quality or state of being morally wrong or unjust.[5] (4) The state Nahusha was accused of falling into, as he disregarded righteous values.[6]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) Immoral actions or deviations from the ethical and moral path that the king avoided in his rule.[7] (2) The moral wrongness that Sumantra warns Kaikeyi against when making decisions that affect the kingdom.[8] (3) The state of not adhering to moral principles, discussed in the context of the actions of those involved in Rama's exile.[9] (4) Immoral actions that have negative consequences, such as misfortune within the kingdom.[10]
From: Padma Purana
(1) Acts or behaviors that go against moral or religious laws, especially prominent during the transition from Satya-yuga to Treta-yuga.[11] (2) Refers to wrongful actions that lead individuals towards misfortune and suffering, often resulting in divine punishment.[12]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) Refers to Brahma's inappropriate desires, particularly concerning his daughter, leading to confusion and shame.[13]
From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)
(1) Actions or behavior that are immoral, improper, or harmful, often evaluated against established moral principles.[14]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The state of being morally wrong or unjust.[15]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) The lack of moral correctness, particularly evident in the tactics used by the princes against the king's son.[16]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Actions or behaviors that lack moral integrity, particularly in the context of defaming others.[17] (2) Actions or behaviors that are unjust or immoral, such as causing injury to one's master, leading to temporary prosperity.[18] (3) The opposite of righteousness, which leads to negative outcomes, such as being condemned to hell.[19] (4) The state or quality of being morally wrong or unjust.[20] (5) The act of behaving in a way that is morally wrong, which can impact inheritance rights.[21]
From: History of Indian Medicine (and Ayurveda)
(1) The moral wrongdoings that Caraka believed to be the root causes of calamities and diseases.[22]
From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)
(1) Immoral behavior or actions that lead to negative consequences for communities, including the potential for mass disease and destruction.[23]
From: Bhishma Charitra
(1) The negative forces opposed to goodness that Lord Krishna aimed to eradicate from the earth.[24] (2) Actions or thoughts that go against moral or ethical standards; Duryodhana is described as being submerged in unrighteousness, leading to his downfall.[25]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) A state of growing fat from wrong actions, leading to inability to walk.[26]