Significance of Virtue
Synonyms: Morality, Goodness, Righteousness, Integrity, Excellence, Character, Worthiness, Decency, Propriety, Honor, Honesty, Uprightness
In Dutch: Deugd; In Finnish: Hyve; In Spanish: Virtud; In German: Tugend; In Malay: Kebajikan; In Swedish: Dygd; In French: Vertu; In Polish: Cnota; In Portugese: Virtude; In Italian: Virtù
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Virtue'
In Buddhism, virtue encompasses moral attributes, ethical behavior, and righteousness. It's essential for monks, future Buddhas, and those seeking enlightenment. Virtue leads to positive outcomes, spiritual well-being, and is foundational for qualities like non-remorse.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) This quality is described as being destroyed by sin, which is also characterized as insipid and leading to rebirth in hell, highlighting the detrimental consequences of immoral actions.[1] (2) It is a central theme, demonstrated by a brahmin and praised for its wondrous charm, even suggesting it can provide protection from danger.[2] (3) Virtue is what the Bodhisatta feared marring if he gave way to anger, demonstrating his commitment to moral principles even in the face of betrayal.[3] (4) It involves moral excellence and righteousness, particularly in the context of generosity and selflessness, leading to positive consequences and heavenly rewards.[4] (5) The virtues of the queen were eventually remembered by the king, prompting him to grant her power and honor.[5]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) It is associated with purity and truth, making it a suitable object for securing preliminary attention in meditation.[6] (2) This refers to moral excellence, as mentioned in the text.[7] (3) Qualities of moral excellence associated with individuals like the Buddha, whose teachings and truth do not decay, unlike physical entities.[8] (4) A quality that is essential for monks, lacking which renders the act of receiving alms corrupt and unethical.[9] (5) One of the three trainings, referring to the commitment not to commit any kind of evil or improper actions.[10]
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) "Virtue" is a foundational quality that a wise individual cultivates, serving as a basis for the development of consciousness and understanding, which are crucial aspects of spiritual growth.[11] (2) It is the states beginning with volition present in one who abstains from killing living things.[12] (3) A component of the path to purity, alongside two others, that is right hard to find.[13] (4) Sense sphere feeling is subtle in virtue, indicating a finer quality compared to its grossness in giving.[14] (5) Virtue is the beginning of the dispensation, which is good because it brings about the special qualities of non-remorse, and is the foundation for many aspects.[15]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) Moral qualities and characteristics that contribute to the Bodhisatta's growth towards enlightenment.[16] (2) Moral attributes or qualities such as generosity and morality, which are practiced by future Buddhas.[17]
From: Patipada (path of practice)
(1) Those who have faith in Dhamma do not remain inactive but strive to search for the attainment of this for themselves.[18] (2) Moral behavior that is venerated and brings peace; also a sign of character in relation to spiritual practice.[19]
From: Dhammapada (translated from the Pali)
(1) Within the context of dhamma, virtue is the realization of the law, which is also related to the meaning of dhammapada, where it is seen as the footpath of virtue, which is the path that leads to virtue.[20] (2) It is moral excellence, righteousness, and goodness, qualities that contribute to a person's value and respect in the eyes of others.[21]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) It is a quality that the Blessed One seeks to increase in living things, contributing to their good through various methods.[22] (2) Moral excellence that is encouraged in Buddhism and is positioned as the path to realizing Nirvana.[23]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (3): Khandhaka
(1) A quality associated with those who give and practice the teachings of the Lord, essential for spiritual development.[24]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) Moral excellence that individuals strive for to avoid the negative effects of past misdeeds and improve future outcomes.[25]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) It refers to qualities such as generosity, discipline, patience, exertion, meditation, and wisdom, which are cultivated for spiritual progress.[26] (2) This refers to guna, a set of positive qualities where abstaining from murder is considered the most important.[27] (3) Related to morality and wisdom, it allows an ascetic to obtain honors.[28] (4) The text states that if dharmas were transitory, virtues, actions, causes and conditions, results and retribution would disappear.[29] (5) A characteristic that signifies moral excellence, specifically in relation to the bodhisattva’s efforts towards beneficial acts.[30]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) Describes the qualities and merits acquired through past actions, leading to favorable rebirths and divine rewards.[31] (2) The positive qualities of Padumavati that King Brahmadatta remembered, causing him to swoon upon realizing he had wrongly accused her.[32] (3) Moral excellence that guides behavior towards beneficial and righteous action.[33] (4) Moral excellence that led to the great impact of the Bodhisattva's actions, causing tremors in the earth and recognition from other beings.[34]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) Relative bodhicitta arises through the power of familiarization with virtue, highlighting the importance of cultivating virtuous qualities.[35] (2) The text mentions that the mental basis for generating bodhicitta is the mind that wishes to practice 'virtue', highlighting the crucial role of virtuous intention in the development of bodhicitta.[36] (3) The text mentions practicing this while aspiring to perfect enlightenment for the benefit of others as aspiration and application.[37]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) The Bodhisattva is described as replete with virtues, highlighting the importance of cultivating positive qualities as part of the path to enlightenment.[38] (2) Sramana Gautama is accomplished and perfect in innumerable virtues.[39]
From: Akshayamatinirdesha [english]
(1) Virtues are the qualities of the Tathagatas, and proclaiming them is the purpose of the mastery.[40]
From: The Perfection Of Wisdom In Eight Thousand Lines
(1) The fruits and flowers of these cannot grow if there is no cognition of the dharmas.[41]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) This is part of the inexhaustible treasury, representing moral excellence and righteousness, which can be transferred between worlds and Tathagatas without obstruction.[42]
From: Lotus Sutra (Saddharma-Pundarika)
(1) It refers to moral excellence, righteousness, and the practice of ethical conduct, encompassing qualities such as generosity, compassion, patience, and wisdom, which lead to positive outcomes.[43]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) The text discusses the "virtues" that lead to an unbiased sacred outlook and the arising of kindness, compassion, and bodhicitta.[44] (2) The virtues of spiritual friends include being peaceful in body, having pure and faultless actions, being skilled in cutting through doubt, and possessing faultless and pleasant speech, as well as having deep and peaceful minds.[45] (3) Virtue is something that virtuous states of mind can develop for those who want it, and life and auspicious goodness can flourish and increase, as stated in the text.[46] (4) Former collections of it are tied to the productive power and celestial abodes.[47] (5) The provided text says to practice virtue for the sake of bhramans and gods, for guests and fathers and mothers, queens and retinue, and that one will get no reward but ripening in Hell if one does evil deeds even for their sake.[48]
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) A concept emphasizing moral conduct and ethical behavior that leads to true grace and a happy people.[49]
Hindu concept of 'Virtue'
In Hinduism, virtue embodies moral excellence, righteousness, and ethical behavior. It guides actions, fosters happiness, and is superior to wealth. Integral to duty, loyalty, and character, virtue brings good fortune and eternal happiness, while resentment and broken promises destroy it.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) This is a quality considered morally good or desirable, and its acquisition and practice are seen as essential for spiritual progress and the avoidance of sin.[50] (2) The passage suggests that men of wisdom do not applaud renunciation as the duty of a Kshatriya, and they think that the adoption of that course of life involves even the loss of virtue.[51] (3) Virtue is presented as a guiding principle, with Krishna's words described as consistent with virtue and profit, and Duryodhana is urged to follow a path of righteousness rather than unrighteousness.[52] (4) Virtue is the tie that bound the Pandavas, preventing them from exerting their prowess when Krishna was insulted, showcasing their adherence to moral principles.[53] (5) The text highlights virtue as a central theme, particularly the importance of women keeping their persons inviolate, which the maiden invokes as a reason for rejecting Surya's advances.[54]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) Rama inherited the virtues of his illustrious father, of a cheerful disposition, speaking soft words to all.[55] (2) Kaushalya tells Rama if he is established in dharma, then remain here, serve her and acquire it.[56] (3) Something that is destroyed by resentment.[57] (4) Virtue is that which is consumed by evil in the Krita Age and is associated with righteousness and the Gods.[58] (5) Virtue is described as being destroyed when a promise is not honored, with severe consequences for the universe.[59]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) Virtues, such as justice and faith, are qualities that the good may gain by retaining empire over each sense, indicating moral excellence.[60] (2) Virtue is a quality that the queen has fallen from, leading her to make destructive choices that affect the royal family, leading to widespread sorrow.[61] (3) A son was born, Bhagirath named, Above all men for virtue famed.[62] (4) Virtue is attributed to Bharat and Lakshman, emphasizing their loyalty, righteousness, and adherence to moral principles, particularly in their response to Rama's exile.[63] (5) The saint is described as knowing every one of these. It is part of his essence.[64]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) The text references the verses chanted by Earth, which were communicated by Asita to Janaka, whose banner was virtue, highlighting the importance of moral principles.[65] (2) It is one of the fourfold objects of men, derived from the eternal by Daksha, Marici, and other patriarchs, according to the king's son.[66] (3) This is behavior showing high moral standards. The account of the Yadu race confers the fruit of all wishes, including this.[67] (4) A quality that signifies moral excellence and uprightness, making no distinction between a disciple and a child.[68]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) The deity with this characteristic begat on the person of Pritha, a son named Yudhisthira.[69] (2) Virtue and opulence are not the focus for those whose minds are absorbed in Vishnu, the root-cause of the universe, as their salvation is in their own hands.[70] (3) The text indicates that the Diksha or initiation is destructive of virtue and sin, emphasizing the transformative nature of the ritual and its effects.[71] (4) Virtues are possessed by the Kuruvindas.[72]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The provided text says that egoism destroys virtues as frost destroys lotus flowers, illustrating how it can ruin positive qualities and moral principles.[73] (2) The consort consistently focuses on virtuous principles and patience, guiding their lord towards a blessed existence, leading with moral strength and foresight.[74] (3) These are associated with quietness and are increased by learning, which are praised for their positive effects on the mind, similar to the appreciation of rain.[75] (4) It is a fruit that hangs downward from the outstretching branches of the tree of meditation.[76]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) Virtue, alongside the Vedas, forgiveness, truth, and the prosperity of Narayana, did not accompany Kalanemi due to his irreligious deeds.[77] (2) The text indicates that when virtue suffers any deterioration, the Rishis are repeatedly born in their families, suggesting a cyclical restoration of righteousness.[78] (3) Virtue is acquired by destroying a wicked person if it secures the well-being of many, indicating a consequentialist view of morality.[79] (4) Virtue is a key aspect as the Chalikya song is capable of bearing the axle of virtue and destructive of sorrow and sin according to the provided text.[80]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) Virtue is rooted in medicinal herbs, which are essential for the study of Vedas and sacrificial rites.[81]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Qualities earned through asceticism and studies, staked by Vashishtha and Vishvamitra in a dispute over the King's truthfulness, highlighting the importance of honesty.[82]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) A quality of the girl that was described to Lord Krishna, which made him fall in love with her and fixed his heart on marrying a girl like her.[83] (2) These are qualities that Lakshmana is endowed with, making her a desirable person.[84] (3) The positive qualities or moral excellences of the woman being praised.[85] (4) Moral principles or qualities that are considered good and desirable in a person.[86] (5) The moral qualities or attributes that reflect positive character.[87]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) It indicates a positive quality or merit, contrasting with fault and highlighting the benefits of devotional service. It signifies merit.[88] (2) The topics and deeds are related to virtue, highlighting the importance of righteous actions and principles.[89]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) The quality of being morally good, especially in following dharma and inspiring others.[90]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) Positive actions performed by Raja Nurug, which were many, but outweighed by the unintentional mistake of giving away the same cow twice, leading to a period of suffering before experiencing any reward.[91]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) A positive attribute that becomes apparent in the devotee when in a specific condition, as described in the provided text.[92]
From: Padarthadharmasamgraha and Nyayakandali
(1) Virtue is related to desire, as performing actions prescribed in scriptures to fulfill desires leads to acquiring Dharma, illustrating the potential for desire to align with moral and ethical conduct.[93] (2) It aids the Auditory sense-organ in bringing about the experiencing of sound, specifically the pleasures associated with sound, alongside vice.[94] (3) It produces Pleasure and Pain in the Self, and also the action of burning &c., in the Fire (kindled at sacrifices).[95] (4) It is characterized as an efficient or instrumental cause, but not a material or immaterial cause according to the text.[96] (5) Behavior showing high moral standards, one of the qualities of the Self, which is indicated by the mention of the fact of the qualities of one Self not being the cause of the appearance of a quality in another Self.[97]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The passage suggests that virtue, alongside wealth, is something a king loses when addicted to pleasure-seeking vices.[98] (2) The text mentions virtue alongside wives, gems, learning, purity, wise sayings, and arts as things that may be obtained from all sources.[99] (3) This term is expounded in detail within the Treatise, and the results are described as endless, which may discourage some hearers due to the interminable nature.[100] (4) The text mentions virtue as one of the things observed by the silent watcher, alongside vice.[101] (5) The text suggests that this resides within the inner soul, and is a positive attribute or quality.[102]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) It, along with vice, cannot be known in the absence of articulation. Understanding of it is dependent on the study and learning of the Veda, which relies on the utterance of letters.[103] (2) It is a concept that can be understood through Learning, and is one of the many concepts that can be learned.[104]
From: Kena Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) The text mentions virtues recited by the Upanishads, and the prayer is that these virtues repose.[105]
From: Katha Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) It is destroyed by the enjoyments, along with strength, intellect, vigour, fame and the rest.[106]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) "Virtue", similar to vice, does not affect the knower of Brahman after illumination, and this detachment contributes to their eventual liberation.[107]
From: Mundaka Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) Virtue is associated with the well-laid path that leads to Brahmaloka, representing a righteous course of action for the sacrificer as they journey.[108]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja’s Rajamartanda)
(1) "Virtue" is one of the qualities mentioned, and complacency is suggested as the feeling to have towards the virtuous, encouraging their positive actions.[109] (2) The quality or practice of moral excellence, which can influence hostile beings to coexist peacefully.[110]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) This signifies the cause that leads to pleasure as a fruit in the context of life-state, life-period, and life-experience, indicating actions that bring positive outcomes.[111] (2) Moral qualities that lead to the accumulation of spiritual achievements.[112]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) Moral excellence is achieved by the king after being rebuked by a child, leading to his abandonment of unlawful passion and embracing righteousness.[113] (2) The king refused to desert the path of this, choosing death over committing an unrighteous deed.[114] (3) A central theme in the text, used to commend noble actions and to warn against moral failings that lead to downfall.[115]
From: Naishadha-charita of Shriharsha
(1) Virtue is a quality of moral excellence and righteousness that is highly valued by the gods and is exemplified by both Nala and Damayanti, leading to divine favor and blessings.[116]
From: History of Indian Medicine (and Ayurveda)
(1) Virtues are certain factors that, through continuous practice, result in a specific state and discipline, and they are part of the regimen of conduct and thought.[117] (2) Virtue and meditation are practiced by people upon whom the visitation of disease set the ancient sages thinking about the way out of it until they saw with the eye of understanding their refuge in Indra, the king of the immortals.[118]
From: Tirukkural (Thirukkural)
(1) It is moral excellence and goodness, and knowing that it is such, wise men do not covet the property of others.[119] (2) This word represents a concept that brings distinction and prosperity, and it is considered the greatest gain a living person can achieve, leading to happiness.[120]
From: Kamashastra Discourse (Life in Ancient India)
(1) One of the three aims of human life, which is obedience to the command of the law treatises, and should be learned from the holy writs and those conversant with it.[121]
Jain concept of 'Virtue'
In Jainism, virtue encompasses morally good practices that lead to merit and ethical living. It includes inherent qualities of the Supreme Lord, righteousness, right knowledge, and desirable traits to cultivate, but can be undermined by seeking fame.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The king fettered the Shris by his virtues, indicating that his admirable qualities and moral character were instrumental in maintaining control and influence over them.[122] (2) These are personified as the general of the soldiers, indicating their strength and importance in supporting and protecting the queen and, by extension, the kingdom's well-being.[123] (3) These are the qualities of the Lord that are described in the hymn of praise, leading to virtuous behavior in others.[124] (4) Qualities that would form a heap, like jewels with flashing light, in the son born from the jewels dream.[125] (5) The positive and admirable qualities that are inherently found in the Supreme Lord.[126]
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) The meaning of 'Dharmya' has been defined as with virtue, which is the virtuous subdivision of meditation.[127] (2) Virtue (shubha) refers to morally good practices that contribute to merit (punya), forming the basis for ethical living.[128] (3) Characteristics or qualities that are deemed morally good and desirable in a person, usually associated with righteousness and right knowledge.[129]
From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)
(1) Virtue is something that should be maintained to exist, rather than claiming it does not exist, according to the text's instructions.[130] (2) Virtue refers to moral excellence; the text notes that after a virtuous beginning, some may become miserable if they seek honor and fame.[131]
From: Naladiyar
(1) A quality that individuals should pursue without delay, utilizing their resources to do good and not postponing righteous actions.[132] (2) Virtue does not need to be inculcated in someone who is deaf to the secrets of others, blind to a neighbor's wife, and dumb in calumniating others.[133]
From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra
(1) Positive traits or qualities deemed morally good that one should strive to cultivate throughout life.[134]
The concept of Virtue in local and regional sources
Virtue, in the text, encompasses moral excellence, loyalty, and positive qualities. It is essential for mankind's well-being and can be overshadowed by vice. Examples of virtue include austerity, truthfulness, and devotion to work.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) This is a quality, present to a greater or lesser degree in everyone, which aids in the practice of impartiality and helps individuals lead happier lives by achieving mental balance and preventing prejudices.[135] (2) Virtue, specifically perfect virtue, is closely tied to true happiness, and a man of perfect virtue has no thought in repose and no anxiety in action, sharing his wealth and food with others without knowing their source.[136] (3) It includes austerity, liberality, uprightness, harmlessness, and truthfulness, which are as effective as the offering of customary gifts to the priests.[137] (4) Virtue is depicted as something that may be dominated by vice, but there is hope that virtue will eventually prevail, suggesting an optimistic outlook.[138] (5) Virtue is a concept that was the aim of the poet and was praised by the society and it was also a part of the pedestal of Virtue.[139]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) It must accompany knowledge for true freedom and salvation. It is an essential quality that complements understanding in achieving liberation.[140] (2) Growth in it allows one to see it in others. As individuals develop it, they perceive it externally, recognizing that judging others reflects self-condemnation.[141] (3) Whenever virtue subsides and immorality prevails, then I come to help mankind, says Krishna, according to the text.[142] (4) Positive qualities that the Swami often seemed to remember about a country after he had departed from it.[143] (5) The text states that the man who has succeeded in getting the love of a chaste wife has succeeded in his religion and has all the virtues.[144]
From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)
(1) Virtue is despised by the people, who instead esteem riches, highlighting a moral perspective that devalues ethical behavior.[145] (2) Virtue, or the virtuous (i.e., the priests), is honoured by the king, signifying the importance of moral excellence or religious figures in the kingdom.[146] (3) The ruler appreciates and gives recognition to those who are known for having good moral qualities.[147] (4) The provided content mentions extreme virtue, which was honored by the construction of a monument after a refutation satisfied the king and his ministers.[148]
The concept of Virtue in scientific sources
Virtue encompasses ethical conduct, moral obedience, and positive character traits. It guides behavior, brings joy, and relates to personal performance, context sensitivity, and overcoming adversity. It is also linked to love, learning, and well-being.
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) Virtue, or ἀρετή, is a key aspect of Greek Philosophy, highlighting its relevance in the exploration of philosophical concepts and ideas.[149] (2) It appears hand in hand in a “perfect” form, which also strengthens the feature of perfection revealed in ethical doctrine. The topics of it are explored with the help of Daoist wisdom.[150] (3) It is manifested through behaviors and postures, becoming unified with the body through moral cultivation and adjustment, playing an irreplaceable role in ethical practice and reflecting in daily life.[151] (4) Courtesy is seen as a combination of many other virtues, highlighting the importance of virtues in social interactions.[152] (5) It is nullified by lack of Charity, all the other someone may have. Paul's warning talks about this.[153]
From: Religious Inquiries (Journal)
(1) These are positive character traits or qualities that are considered to be morally good and desirable, guiding individuals to act in accordance with ethical principles.[154] (2) "Virtue" is a disposition of the soul that enables its possessor to act easily and without deliberation, serving as the basis for moral judgment, good feelings, and proper actions.[155] (3) The text asserts that virtue has such a great value that the joy it brings is above any other, leading to a superior status compared to angels when attained by overcoming adversities.[156] (4) It is discussed in the text in relation to acquiring it, the difficulty of achieving it, and its connection to compassionate men and women.[157] (5) Virtue, according to the text, is something to be united with happiness, and the highest good involves a state where each person holds moral obedience as a top priority and experiences happiness in proportion to commitment.[158]
From: Sustainability Journal (MDPI)
(1) These are identified as core values, serving as a foundation for corporate cultures and guiding the behavior of employees, promoting ethical conduct and social responsibility.[159] (2) Virtue and mind relate to the meaning of learning, as stated in a publication detail, a matter of culture.[160] (3) The provided content mentions virtues as one of the aspects linked to the projection of preferred goals, identity, and values, representing a future-oriented conceptualization of well-being.[161]
From: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (MDPI)
(1) Six virtues, including courage, humanity, justice, temperance, transcendence, and wisdom, can be found in many cultures, including Buddhism, Athenian philosophy, Christianity, Confucianism and Taoism.[162]
From: African Journal of Primary Health Care and Family Medicine
(1) These are planned and coordinated care, and the role of self-management, which are appreciated by graduates, who explore and appreciate commonly held health beliefs.[163]
From: South African Family Practice
(1) This refers to the idea of a return to virtue, which is seen as having more merit than the relativism of the four principles, according to the provided text.[164]
From: South African Journal of Psychiatry
(1) These are a type of values that pertain in psychiatric practice, along with personal values, ideals, principles, quasi-legal values, religious values, normative values, and prescriptive values, and bioethical values.[165]
Classical concept of 'Virtue'
From: The Nicomachean Ethics of Aristotle
(1) Virtue is not just something to know, but something to have and use, or to find another way of becoming good, implying that virtue requires practice and implementation.[166] (2) According to the provided text, the concept of "virtue" is central to understanding happiness, particularly in relation to human actions, passions, and moral character.[167] (3) Virtue is described as something that happiness is in accordance with, especially the highest form of virtue, relating to the best aspects of human nature and potentially leading to perfect happiness.[168] (4) These are mentioned as a topic of previous discussion, alongside friendship and pleasure, as foundational elements related to the nature of happiness. It is associated with noble and good deeds, which are considered desirable for their own sake.[169] (5) Within the text, the activities of virtue are not qualities, and virtues like justice and bravery are discussed in relation to pleasure, suggesting that acting in accordance with these virtues can vary in degree, and one may possess more or less of a certain virtue.[170]
From: Aesop's Fables (English translation)
(1) This is presented as a concept that the thieves actively oppose, revealing their moral corruption and their preference for actions that undermine ethical conduct, making them antagonists in the story.[171] (2) The Father encourages his daughter to cultivate virtues, implying that these qualities can make up for her perceived lack of physical beauty, stressing the importance of character.[172]
From: The Gods of the Egyptians Vol 1
(1) positive qualities or traits that a being, like man, possesses, contributing to moral excellence.[173]