Significance of Wicked people
The term "wicked people" is broadly defined across various Indian philosophical traditions. In Jainism, they are seen as those who not only cause distress to others but also engage in immoral actions. The Arthashastra views them as morally corrupt actors, while Vaishnavism identifies them with notorious figures like Duryodhana, highlighting their sinful nature. Texts like the Purana and Dharmashastra explain their association with harmful behaviors, emphasizing that their immoral actions lead to societal decline and spiritual consequences. Overall, wicked individuals are depicted as threats to virtue and harmony.
Synonyms: Evil people, Sinful people, Malicious people, Rogues, Knaves
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Wicked people'
In Buddhism, "wicked people" are defined as those involved in immoral actions and harmful behaviors, characterized by envy and mischief, who should be avoided according to the Bodhisatta's teachings.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Individuals who act unethically or immorally and typically would attack the vulnerable but are deterred by the moral man.[1] (2) Those who engage in immoral actions and may envy the murderer, while still engaging in social criticism.[2]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) Individuals characterized by mischief and wrongdoing, whom one should avoid, as indicated by the Bodhisatta's conclusion.[3]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) Individuals who engage in immoral or harmful behavior.[4]
Hindu concept of 'Wicked people'
In Hinduism, "wicked people" are viewed as those embodying negative traits, such as cruelty and immorality, exemplified by figures like Duryodhana. They engage in harmful behaviors and are often excluded from spiritual realms, particularly during Kali Yuga.
From: Padma Purana
(1) Individuals characterized by bad deeds and negative traits such as cruelty and ingratitude, who are not allowed to enter heaven.[5]
From: Agni Purana
(1) Individuals who become immoral in the year Durmukha.[6]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) Individuals who engage in immoral or unjust actions, predominant in society during the decline of virtue in the Kali age.[7]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Those that are considered immoral, with whom the lowest order should never associate.[8]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) Individuals similar to Damana, with whom he associated and engaged in vices.[9]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Individuals who are considered evil or morally corrupt.[10] (2) Individuals that are associated with immoral or evil behavior, whose company is considered harmful to one's character.[11] (3) Individuals who engage in negative behaviors, such as censure or defamation of others.[12] (4) Individuals who intentionally commit dishonest acts, particularly in the context of deposit disputes.[13]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Those who are unfortunate and do not find pleasure in the topics of Shri Caitanya due to their miscreant nature.[14] (2) Individuals who are morally wrong or sinful, often engaging in bad or harmful behaviors.[15]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Refers to antagonists like Duryodhana and Duhshasana, who acted immorally and caused distress to Shri Draupadi and her family.[16]
From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
(1) Individuals who commit immoral acts, mentioned in the text as having words that are as appalling as the Halahala poison.[17] (2) Individuals known for negative traits who slander and introduce harmful influences.[18]
From: Kautilya Arthashastra
(1) Individuals or groups engaged in morally wrong or malevolent actions.[19]
From: Dasarupaka (critical study)
(1) Individuals who engage in immoral or cruel actions, causing harm to others, especially women.[20]
Jain concept of 'Wicked people'
In Jainism, "wicked people" refers to those who disrupt others' grief, act immorally causing suffering, and harm living beings or nature for selfish enjoyment, all of which are condemned actions that contribute to negative karma.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Individuals characterized by immoral actions or intentions, contributing to the suffering of others.[21] (2) Refers to those whom Rama believes are interfering with his grieving process, causing some distress.[22]
From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)
(1) Individuals who kill beings or destroy natural elements for their own pleasure, condemned for such actions.[23]
The concept of Wicked people in local and regional sources
The term "Wicked people" describes the villagers incited by the Mahar's accusations against Bodhla, showcasing how fear and misinformation can drive a community to violence and irrational behavior against an innocent individual.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) The group of villagers who turn angry and threaten to kill Bodhla based on the Mahar's accusations.[24]