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Significance of Character

Character, in various philosophical and cultural contexts, refers to the defining qualities and nature of individuals or subjects. In Tibetan Buddhism and Vedanta, it represents essential attributes influencing ethical behavior and societal respect. Vaishnavism emphasizes traits that shape individual behavior, while Natyashastra defines characters as integral figures in drama that influence narratives and themes. Theravada views character as unique personal traits, and in Indian history, it is seen as a vital moral quality that establishes authority and social justice, showcasing the importance of character in society.1
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Synonyms: Personality, Figure, Nature, Role, Trait, Quality, Essence, Character trait, Individual, Disposition, Temperament, Identity, Part

In Dutch: Karakter; In Finnish: Merkki; In Spanish: Personaje; In German: Charakter; In Malay: Perwatakan; In Swedish: °­²¹°ù²¹°ì³Ùä°ù; In French: Personnage

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Character'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, "Character" encompasses individual traits (nama), essential qualities defining nature in philosophical discussions, and specific attributes relevant to particular subjects in philosophical and logical contexts.

Significance in Tibetan Buddhism (Vajrayana or tantric Buddhism):
Tibetan Buddhism Books

From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]

(1) The specific quality or nature of the subject being discussed, particularly in philosophical and logical arguments.[1] (2) The essential qualities or attributes that define something's nature, particularly in the context of philosophical discussion.[2]

Tibetan Buddhism includes schools such as Nyingma, Kadampa, Kagyu and Gelug. Their primary canon of literature is divided in two broad categories: The Kangyur, which consists of Buddha’s words, and the Tengyur, which includes commentaries from various sources. Esotericism and tantra techniques (vajrayana) are collected indepently.

Significance in Theravada (major branch of Buddhism):
Theravada Books

From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life

(1) The unique traits and tendencies of an individual, understood in Buddhist teachings as nama.[3]

Theravada is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).

Hindu concept of 'Character'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, "Character" encompasses both the pivotal roles individuals play in dramas and their ethical qualities. It signifies their narrative impact and societal respect, highlighting both personal traits and their contribution to overarching themes and conflicts.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Chaitanya Bhagavata

(1) The set of qualities or traits that define the nature and behavior of an individual.[4]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (‘ten avatars of Vishnu�).

Significance in Vedanta (school of philosophy):
Vedanta Books

From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)

(1) The personal qualities and ethical behavior of the individual that contribute to their overall respect and admiration in society.[5]

Vedanta refers to a school of orthodox Hindu philosophy (astika), drawing its subject-matter from the Upanishads. There are a number of sub-schools of Vedanta, however all of them expound on the basic teaching of the ultimate reality (brahman) and liberation (moksha) of the individual soul (atman).

The concept of Character in local and regional sources

History Books

Character encompasses the moral and ethical qualities that underpin authority and social justice, significantly influencing leadership and respect. It is regarded as individuals' greatest wealth, shaping societal values and individual contributions.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) Character is portrayed as a significant force, showcased through the life of an individual and is an attribute of the person, influencing their rise to leadership and respect.[6] (2) The intrinsic quality of individuals which is deemed the greatest wealth of the nation.[7] (3) The moral and ethical qualities of individuals, viewed as fundamental to establishing authority and social justice.[8]

From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda

(1) This is built by perfect love, and the good soul will not be receptive to evil thoughts, and perfect purity ensures the most lasting allegiance.[9]

Plural form: Characters.