Significance of Wealth
Synonyms: Riches, Assets, Affluence, Prosperity, Fortune, Abundance, Capital, Resources, Money, Opulence
In Dutch: Rijkdom; In Finnish: Rikkaus; In Spanish: Poder; In Portugese: Fortuna; In German: Reichtum; In Swedish: Rikedom; In Malay: Kekayaan; In French: Richesse; In Italian: Ricchezza; In Polish: Bogactwo
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Wealth'
In Buddhism, wealth encompasses material resources used for religious activities, good deeds, and supporting the Dharma. It can be a reward, a means to benefit others, and a tool for building Buddhist sites. However, wealth can also lead to greed and is not an end in itself.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) It refers to material possessions and resources, which can be given up as an act of generosity.[1] (2) This is one of the virtues that the Community of the Buddha's disciples possess, making them worthy of offerings, homage, salutation, and veneration, showcasing their inner richness.[2] (3) Material riches that the bodhisattva sought in order to distribute it generously among the people.[3] (4) Material possessions that can lead to greed and conflict, as shown in the interactions between the brothers.[4]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) "Wealth" is mentioned as one of the three kinds of giving, though the text does not explicitly define it, it implies material possessions or resources that can be shared.[5]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) Wise Sumedha! From now on, you should fulfil, first of all, the perfection of offering charity. Just as, indeed, a turned-upside-down water-jar does but spill (vamati) water, making the container entirely empty and does not accept again, exactly in the same way, you will become Buddha, seated at the base of the Bodhi tree, after giving away, leaving nothing, all that was wanted and needed, to all comers with their individual requests, regardless of your own one of these or retainers of wife along, with children or bodily limbs, big and small.[6] (2) This is the inherited fortune of Sumedha, including gold, silver, gems, and pearls.[7] (3) Material abundance that Koliivisa attained and utilized to support his religious activities.[8]
From: Hualin International Journal of Buddhist Studies
(1) The financial resources and assets possessed by individuals, including monastics, which were used to fund and support the construction and expansion of Buddhist sites like Sanchi.[9] (2) Wealth is valued and praised in Indian classical texts, seen as a reward for good deeds and enabling support for religious activities, but it is not an end in itself.[10]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The material possessions and inheritance left behind by their father, which the younger brother and his wife desire to keep.[11]
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) Wealth is one of the various human desires that good deeds help to fulfill.[12]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The text discusses 'wealth' in the context of Anathapindika's generosity and the goddess's attempt to protect it, as well as its eventual restoration through supernatural means.[13]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) Material resources that the Dharmasvamin acquired and distributed for the benefit of others and the Doctrine.[14] (2) The abundance of material resources and possessions that filled Precious Dharmasvamin's house and grounds.[15]
Hindu concept of 'Wealth'
In Hinduism, "Wealth" encompasses material resources and possessions, including money, jewels, and property. It's viewed as something attainable through various means like offerings, astrology, or recitation. While wealth can bring status and security, it can also lead to spiritual pitfalls like anxiety and dependency if not managed correctly.
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Wealth represents material possessions and riches, which are identified as a source of fleeting pleasure that distracts from the pursuit of spiritual devotion and a meaningful life.[16] (2) Lord Gaurasundara arrived on the bank of the Padmavati to perform pastimes of accumulating wealth, imitating the activities of ordinary householders.[17] (3) Wealth is identified as another source of pride that, when combined with false ego, can cause inauspiciousness, especially for those unaware of the glories of devotional service.[18] (4) Wealth, in the form of gold, silver, and other fine items, represents the riches that the Lord acquired, which were then offered to His mother Shaci.[19] (5) Wealth is described as one of the items, alongside rice and cloth, that Nimai generously donated to those who were poor and distressed.[20]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Wealth, or 'dhanam', is one of the worldly benefits gained through reciting the prayer, alongside victory and followers, as described in the verse.[21] (2) The term "wealth" is associated with Krsna, signifying not just material possessions but also his spiritual abundance and the riches he bestows upon his devotees.[22] (3) "Wealth", or dhanani, is given to Krishna by Nanda, Yashoda, Rohini, and the gopa elders as a gesture of their affection.[23] (4) It is something that Radha possesses, and she states she might not give it away.[24] (5) It is accumulated through good actions, but can be diminished by sinful behavior.[25]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) The material riches that the Syamantaka jewel is known to provide.[26]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) The daughter is leaving all of it over here when she set out towards Tirukkoliur.[27]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The text explores the idea that "wealth" is not solely the result of exertion, as many people exert themselves greatly without acquiring wealth, while others gain wealth without any effort, highlighting the influence of factors beyond effort.[28] (2) An abundance of riches acquired by King Sivi, allowing him to perform numerous Horse-sacrifices and give away a thousand crores of golden nishkas, elephants, steeds, animals, grain, deer, and sheep.[29] (3) The mortal that has sinned becomes cleansed by making gifts of kine, of earth, and of wealth, indicating the remedial power of charitable actions.[30] (4) A source of conflict among family members, leading them to fall into the hands of enemies, highlighting the destructive nature of greed.[31] (5) Having acts that never deceive, words that are always agreeable, and "wealth" that is always well spent are qualities that help in overcoming difficulties, highlighting the importance of integrity and generosity.[32]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) The character possessed an abundance of valuable items, including gems, demonstrating his immense prosperity and opulence.[33] (2) Wealth is a collection of riches and possessions, given to the prince, and it symbolizes status, generosity, and the prince's importance.[34] (3) Wealth is something that is left by those who cleave every hour to pleasure, according to the provided text.[35]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) Sugriva is ready to renounce his wealth to please Rama, illustrating his commitment to their alliance and his willingness to make sacrifices.[36] (2) The material possessions that Rama desires to distribute in charity to the brahmins and ascetics.[37]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) It is one of the fourfold objects of men, obtained from the eternal by some, according to the king's son, as he defends his faith.[38] (2) This is the abundance of valuable possessions or money. The account of the Yadu race confers the fruit of all wishes, including this.[39]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Material possession viewed as desirable, yet associated with negative emotions and dangers.[40]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Material resources that are associated with happiness but are ultimately shown to create anxiety and dependency.[41]
From: Bhagavad-gita-mahatmya
(1) Material richness that Jada acquired during his business trip, which he eventually wasted through sinful activities.[42]
From: Anugita (English translation)
(1) It is one of the topics, along with piety and desire, that the true conclusion is about.[43]
From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha
(1) Material possessions that are viewed as illusory and leading to bondage.[44]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) What Alarka is encouraged to bestow upon the dvijas, important figures in society.[45]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) The kings fill up their treasuries with wealth by doing good to their subjects and realizing duly tributes, as stated in the provided text.[46]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) It is not acceptable to request it from a member of the lowest social class for religious ceremonies, though accepting it unasked is not forbidden.[47] (2) The younger brothers shall not be deprived of wealth simply because they are of a younger age, implying that they have rights to inheritance or property, regardless of their birth order.[48] (3) An abundance of valuable possessions or money, accumulated through various activities such as agriculture, gifts, or money-lending, and potentially subject to redistribution.[49] (4) This term, in the context, refers to items like cows and buffalos, which are considered valuable possessions and can be acquired through victory.[50] (5) Material possessions and financial resources, the pursuit of which can sometimes hinder one's dedication to study, is considered as wealth.[51]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) Abundance of resources and possessions, which the speaker desires to be united with.[52] (2) A desired outcome associated with the Soma ritual, indicating prosperity and abundance.[53] (3) An abundance of valuable resources or material possessions, sought in sacrificial offerings.[54] (4) A common desirable outcome sought through rituals, often linked to blessings and abundance.[55]
From: Hiranyakesi-grihya-sutra
(1) Material prosperity and abundance that is desired through divine blessings.[56] (2) Material prosperity that is invoked during the ceremony through specific steps taken by the couple.[57]
From: Paraskara-grihya-sutra
(1) The waters are rich in this and are considered the rulers over this, as well as blessed offspring.[58]
From: Hayanaratna: The Jewel of Annual Astrology
(1) This is a lot that is derived by subtracting the ruler of the second house from the second house by day or night as previously described.[59] (2) It is a valuable asset that can be gained or lost during various subperiods within the period of Saturn, affecting one's overall prosperity.[60] (3) When a journey is made for the purpose of earning this and so on, the wise knower of the Tajika science should pronounce according to the strength of the lot of fortune.[61] (4) Financial prosperity and material possessions, influenced by various astrological factors.[62] (5) This term represents material possessions, and is mentioned in the context of the sixth house, indicating a specific aspect of life influenced by this house's astrological interpretations.[63]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) A state of financial prosperity that can be influenced by the bird's presence in particular settings.[64]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) Wealth, also known as Rayi, is the term used to describe the Vaishvanara Atman, and the reason why Budila is rich and has a healthy body is because he worships it.[65] (2) The material possessions that Janashruti initially offered to Raikva, which were rejected.[66] (3) The material possessions that Janashruti believes he can use to tempt Raikva to teach him Brahmavidya.[67]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) This is a result of meditating upon the Vaishvanara-Self as extensive, and includes gold and other things.[68] (2) Represents the bladder of the Vaishvanara-Self, symbolizing abundance and richness in various forms.[69]
From: Katha Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) Material possessions that can cause folly and ignorance, enveloping the mind in darkness and preventing one from seeing beyond the perceived world.[70] (2) The material riches or possessions that people seek, which according to the text, does not guarantee delight.[71]
From: Isopanisad (Madhva commentary)
(1) A metaphor for the bounties and richness found in spiritual knowledge and liberation.[72]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) Material abundance that represents greatness in status or achievement attained through contemplation.[73]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) The abundance of valuable resources or material possessions, which is considered essential for performing karma.[74]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) Wealth, such as cattle, constitutes fifteen digits of a man who knows Prajapati, as it increases and decreases and aids the performance of rites.[75]
From: Shukra Niti by Shukracharya
(1) A crucial element for a king and his subjects, which is to be carefully managed, protected, and utilized for virtue, satisfaction, and the overall well-being of the kingdom.[76]
From: Kautilya Arthashastra
(1) A friend will accumulate this in a short time without much loss and will follow him in his march.[77]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) Material prosperity that Pushan grants back to Shri as part of the offerings.[78] (2) In this context, wealth refers to cattle, which signifies prosperity and abundance, particularly in one's homestead.[79]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) The abundance of this is obtained by placing the semen virile, possessing good progeny and manliness.[80] (2) The individual should follow the shamyuvaka with a formula, which includes a reference to Vishnu, and it mentions the attainment of health, this, and stability.[81]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) Wealth is mentioned as a possession of people who may lack the knowledge to understand the Supreme, yet it is an important aspect to have.[82]
Jain concept of 'Wealth'
In Jainism, wealth is viewed as a desire that, if excessively pursued, can lead to negative karmic consequences and rebirth in lower realms, such as hells.
From: Naladiyar
(1) Something that individuals should use to do good and not postponing righteous actions.[83] (2) Abundance of material possessions or resources, which can sometimes lead individuals to arrogance, complacency, and a disregard for the needs and feelings of others.[84] (3) One should not hide this when they possess it, but rather give alms. The effect of good deeds can exhaust it.[85]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The intense desire for it drove the actions of two merchants, Dhanavasu and Datta, leading them to engage in extensive trade and unethical practices.[86] (2) Take a part of (our) wealth, Dashanana told Sahasramshu, indicating a willingness to share resources and promote prosperity among them, solidifying their alliance.[87]
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) It is one of the desires that, when excessively pursued by one living in the womb, leads to rebirth in the hells.[88]
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) It is said that this is life, as it begets food, and food sustains life, which is a similar relation to injury and suffering.[89]
The concept of Wealth in local and regional sources
Wealth is depicted as material possessions, prosperity, and financial success. It's a source of power, sometimes sought after through various means like accumulation, gifts, or deceit. The text explores different aspects of wealth, including its flow, its impact on individuals, and its symbolic significance.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) This is a collection of riches and treasures within the palace, which initially intrigues the cowherd boy but ultimately loses its appeal.[90] (2) The house's height proclaimed its wealth, signifying its status and grandeur before its tragic and violent death, which left it resembling burnt trees.[91] (3) The greed for amassing wealth at the cost of a fulfilling life of love is the chief motif of the play Rakta Karabi, exploring the consequences of prioritizing material gain over personal fulfillment.[92] (4) Wealth and property grow in the land, indicating a time of prosperity and abundance because of the vow.[93] (5) Something that Sundari is concerned with accumulating, as she seems to focus on financial gain more than building relationships with those around her.[94]
From: Folklore of the Santal Parganas
(1) Wealth is what Kara came with, which astonished the villagers, and they helped him to build a grand house.[95] (2) The father-in-law compared the flow of wealth to water flowing away through outlets.[96] (3) The riches Dharmu obtained after persuading Karam Gosain to return with them.[97]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) One suggestion involved dividing all of one's "wealth" among the Brahmans, indicating a belief in the power of charitable acts to influence one's health and fortune.[98] (2) Wealth is something the Primal Mother could grant, but she indicated that causing the king to see Shri Rama was beyond her power.[99] (3) This refers to the accumulated riches, and it is a symbol of material possessions.[100]
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) A state of abundance or prosperity that the man desires to attain, representing material and financial success.[101] (2) The riches that the Brahmana deceitfully claims he would receive from the Rakshasa King, representing greed and manipulation.[102] (3) The riches promised by the King to the man who brings the carcass of the leopard slain by the Prince.[103] (4) The riches contained in the sandalwood box, which ultimately benefits the family of the younger sister.[104]
From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)
(1) The thing that the Arhat gathered in the house, and he bought the neighboring land and built houses in the bordering cities for the accommodation of travelers.[105]
The concept of Wealth in scientific sources
Wealth, as defined in this text, encompasses an individual's financial resources and socioeconomic standing. Lower wealth correlates with increased sleep duration in older adults. Additionally, wealth disparity is highlighted as a potential risk factor for suicide.
From: Sustainability Journal (MDPI)
(1) A measure of a nation’s financial resources, which can act as a barrier to the utilization of renewable energy sources, affecting its adoption and implementation.[106] (2) Wealth is examined through socioeconomic indicators to determine the financial status of people living along grand avenues compared to their host cities, and is a key factor in determining the sustainability of these areas.[107] (3) The coe ffi cients associated with wealth are not statistically significant, though they indeed have the expected sign for both hybrid seed and fertilizer according to the information in Table 3.[108] (4) It is a key determinant of food security, indicating that financial resources play a crucial role in ensuring access to sufficient and nutritious food for households.[109] (5) Wealth is presented as a value with a measurement of 0.74 and 23.5, suggesting its role as a factor in the research.[110]
From: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (MDPI)
(1) The text indicates the topic of wealth and its everyday influence on their experience pervaded discussions about growing up in Aurdon.[111] (2) The provided text indicates that incidence correlates with wealth, which is attributed to the number of confirmed cases depending on the number of tests conducted, which in turn depends on economics of the country.[112] (3) Wealth, evidenced by homeownership, is a factor that might be expected to predict lower violation likelihood.[113] (4) Represented in log-transformed values, it is a demographic factor assessed for its impact on the likelihood of falls, using mixed-effect logistic regression models.[114]
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) The document mentioned in the text is relevant as an ideal and a guideline for evaluating ecclesiastical practices regarding wealth and power.[115] (2) Laozi opposes possessions and plunder, opposes the monopolization and centralization of wealth, or in other words, is against corruption and greed.[116] (3) Refers to the abundance of financial resources, which enabled some single women missionaries to operate independently and effectively in their work.[117] (4) The text discusses disparities in wealth and income as creating divisions that prevent the building up of a shared common life.[118] (5) It is typically confined by the constraints of the rational actor theory, while merit or karma is not concerned with immediate profit or, rather, the author identifies that they are part of a complex web of relations.[119]
From: South African Journal of Psychiatry
(1) This is a socioeconomic factor, with varying levels of wealth, which is examined for its relationship with cognitive performance among older adults.[120] (2) This represents an individual's financial resources, with lower wealth being associated with longer sleep duration among participants aged 60-79 years.[121]
From: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
(1) An abundance of valuable possessions or money, and the disparity in this is mentioned as a risk factor for suicide.[122]
Classical concept of 'Wealth'
From: The Nicomachean Ethics of Aristotle
(1) It is a form of compensation that can be exchanged for honor, ensuring fairness and balance within relationships and societal structures.[123] (2) It is a factor that, when significantly different between individuals, can impede the development of relationships. Large disparities in this aspect can create barriers to forming connections.[124] (3) It is considered a desirable achievement, but excessive pursuit of it, contrary to the right rule, is not considered simple incontinence but a qualified form.[125] (4) It is associated with by supporters of oligarchy. It is a criterion for determining what is in distribution, reflecting an economic hierarchy.[126] (5) It is related to magnificence, specifically involving expenditure on a large scale, fitting to the agent, circumstances, and object; it is shown in expenditures that are honorable.[127]
From: The History of Herodotus
(1) Wealth was not brought to the Athenians by Miltiades, neither bringing wealth to the Athenians nor having added to them the possession of Paros, but having besieged the city for six-and-twenty days and laid waste the island.[128] (2) The text refers to the wealth in Asia as a factor that Aristagoras used to persuade the Athenians to support the Ionians, highlighting the economic motivations behind political decisions.[129] (3) A large amount of valuable possessions or money.[130] (4) Alexander brought "wealth" with him when he abducted Helen, and this "wealth" was detained by Proteus along with Helen, to be returned to Menelaos when he arrived.[131] (5) It is demonstrated by the land being divided to support the great king and his army, with Babylon providing support for four months of the year.[132]
From: The Argonautica (English translation)
(1) An abundance granted to the inhabitants, highlighting the goddess's influence and the prosperity she brought to the region as a result of her presence.[133]
From: The Iliad of Homer (English translation)
(1) It is mentioned in the text as something that would be taken by the victor of a single fight, along with Helen. It is also something to be given back by the Trojans.[134]
From: The Odyssey of Homer (English translation)
(1) Ulysses amassed much wealth through his command of men and ships on foreign service, becoming a great man among the Cretans.[135]
From: Egypt Through The Stereoscope
(1) The wealth of this distant land, including gold and myrrh, was presented to the splendid temple, with officials weighing and measuring the resources, showcasing the abundance and value of the goods brought from Punt to Egypt.[136] (2) The Pharaohs spent much of the "wealth" gained in Syrian conquests in order to appease the gods, who gave them victories, with larger and more splendid temples.[137]
From: Development of Religion and Thought in Ancient Egypt
(1) It represents the abundance of valuable resources, assets, and possessions, often associated with economic prosperity, financial security, and the ability to exert influence.[138]