Significance of Good character
Good character is universally recognized as essential across various texts and philosophies, emphasizing traits such as moral integrity, ethical behavior, and righteousness. In Arthashastra, it is crucial for social roles and leadership. Vaishnavism highlights its importance in personal relationships, while Puranas associate it with virtuous deeds and familial reputation. Kavya and Dharmashastra underscore good character as vital for spouses, linking it to societal norms. Meanwhile, Theravada speaks of its role in achieving personal happiness through virtuous actions, illustrating its broad significance in human interactions.
Synonyms: Virtue, Integrity, Morality, Ethics, Honesty, Righteousness, Virtuous, Ethical, Moral, Upright, Honorable, Righteous, Trustworthy, Respectable
In Dutch: Goed karakter; In Finnish: Hyvä luonne; In Spanish: Buen caracter; In German: Guter Charakter; In Malay: Perwatakan yang baik; In Swedish: Bra karaktär; In Spanish: Buen carácter; In French: Bon caractère
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Good character'
In Buddhism, Good character signifies a moral quality fostered by virtuous actions, reflecting the Sakyans' aspiration for positive change, resulting in social admiration and personal contentment beyond concerns of kamma or the afterlife.
From: Vinaya Pitaka (3): Khandhaka
(1) A quality attributed to the Sakyans that the warriors aspire to embody in their change of life towards doing what is good.[1]
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) A moral quality that arises from virtuous actions, leading to social admiration and personal contentment, regardless of the truth of kamma or afterlife.[2]
Hindu concept of 'Good character'
Good character in Hinduism embodies moral integrity, virtue, and ethical behavior. It is essential for individuals engaging in rituals, relationships, and societal roles, reflecting qualities celebrated in revered figures and deemed crucial for personal and communal harmony.
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The quality of being virtuous and trustworthy, especially of the depositor.[3] (2) A quality attributed to individuals, particularly in the context of the term 'upasampanna'.[4] (3) A quality required for a teacher to be considered appropriate for a pupil's life-long residence, reflecting moral integrity and nobility.[5] (4) The moral quality and integrity demonstrated by an individual.[6] (5) Good character in the eldest brother leads to positive behavior among his younger brothers.[7]
From: Vasistha Dharmasutra
(1) A prevalent trait of individuals deemed reliable or trustworthy in testifying.[8]
From: Gobhila-grihya-sutra
(1) Traits signifying moral integrity and respectability, essential for those honoring rituals.[9]
From: Gautama Dharmasutra
(1) A moral standing that must be demonstrated by individuals for their maintenance by the king.[10]
From: Apastamba Grihya-sutra
(1) A trait valued in a bride that reflects moral integrity and virtues.[11]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) An essential quality in those eligible to receive the teachings of Brahma Vidya.[12] (2) A trait attributed to Muni Parashara, which contrasts with his actions towards Matsyagandha.[13] (3) An attribute ascribed to Sukanya, which ultimately leads to her father’s decision to give her in marriage.[14]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The essential trait required of a person, a sacrifice, and Soma for their collective success.[15]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) The admirable reputation and virtuous traits that are a decoration and distinction for any individual.[16]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) A trait of Prithu, indicating moral integrity and virtuous behavior.[17]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) An attribute of Radha that contributes to her pride, indicating a strong moral nature.[18] (2) Describes an admirable quality that reflects moral integrity and ethical behavior.[19] (3) Describes an individual with positive moral attributes.[20] (4) Refers to moral excellence or virtues that the character lacks.[21]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) A description of the narrator's virtuous nature, which contributed to being loved by the king.[22]
From: Chaitanya Mangala
(1) The positive traits attributed to Lord Vishvambhara that made him an ideal husband for Sanatana Pandita's daughter.[23]
From: Kautilya Arthashastra
(1) The qualities that make a king suitable for leading and implementing policy effectively.[24] (2) The qualities of being righteous and virtuous, which are respected by the neighbouring king who accepts visitors of such nature.[25] (3) A quality desirable in heirs or leaders that is essential for maintaining stability and preventing internal conflict.[26]
From: Shukra Niti by Shukracharya
(1) The foundation for a prosperous and respectful existence.[27]
From: Hitopadesha (English translation)
(1) A trait that is deemed necessary for someone to serve as an ambassador or representative.[28]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) Represents moral integrity and ethical behavior, which contributes to satisfaction and pleasure.[29] (2) The moral and ethical qualities that contribute to an individual's overall radiance and satisfaction in life.[30] (3) Refers to possessing virtues and moral integrity that contribute to the radiance of Brahman.[31]
From: Kamashastra Discourse (Life in Ancient India)
(1) An essential quality of a woman that is considered favorable for marriage, indicating moral integrity.[32]
The concept of Good character in local and regional sources
Good character, in this context, denotes less engaging traits in dramatic roles, contrasting with more complex, flawed characters. These simplistic figures often lack depth, serving as mere background rather than captivating audience interest.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Moral integrity and purity, deemed essential for personal and national prosperity.[33] (2) A term used to describe characters in drama that are not as well-developed or engaging as their flawed counterparts, often seen as mere shapes or dummies.[34]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) This is established when a person has performed so many good actions and thought so many good thoughts that they have an irresistible tendency to do good, even when they might wish to do otherwise.[35]