Significance of Good deed
Synonyms: Beneficial act, Charitable action, Act of kindness, Kind gesture, Benevolent act, Charitable act, Good act
In Dutch: Goede daad; In Finnish: Hyv盲 teko; In Spanish: Buena acci贸n; In German: Gute Tat; In Swedish: God g盲rning; In Malay: Perbuatan baik; In French: Bonne action
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 deed'
In Buddhism, a good deed encompasses virtuous actions performed with right intention, yielding positive outcomes and benefits for oneself and others, promoting merit accumulation, moral conduct, and favorable consequences in this life and the afterlife.
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) Actions that are beneficial and morally positive in nature.[1] (2) Acts considered morally positive, which ditthi falsely believes will not result in consequences or rewards.[2] (3) Positive actions undertaken to help others or contribute to society, aligned with moral and ethical principles.[3] (4) Actions that align with ethical conduct, which are subject to doubt regarding the enjoyment of their consequences.[4] (5) Actions that yield positive outcomes and benefits in the present and future existences.[5]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) A positive action performed with the intention of contributing to the well-being of oneself or others.[6] (2) Actions that are virtuous and morally commendable, contributing to the fragrance of virtue that is esteemed.[7] (3) Acts of kindness performed by the young man, reflecting the importance of moral actions in Buddhist teachings.[8] (4) Actions performed with the intent to do good, which can lead to positive outcomes, such as generating wealth.[9] (5) Actions that are virtuous and beneficial, which are difficult to perform for an evil person.[10]
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) Positive actions that can lead to favorable outcomes, including good rebirth according to Buddhist beliefs.[11] (2) Actions undertaken to liberate oneself from the samsaric cycle of suffering, as practiced in the teachings of the Buddha.[12] (3) Actions characterized by ethical integrity that yield positive kammic results.[13] (4) Good deeds are positive actions that can be classified in both rupa (material) and arupa (immaterial) spheres, relevant to the discussion of sankhara and kammabhava.[14] (5) Actions performed with moral integrity that are often discarded by those adhering to false views.[15]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The virtuous actions and behaviors performed by the Bodhisatta throughout his life, which influence his fate after death.[16] (2) Acts of charity and virtue that lead to rewards in the next life, emphasized as a central theme of the narrative.[17] (3) The actions that the brahmin committed following the advice of his son, including almsgiving and observing virtues.[18] (4) Acts of kindness and generosity encouraged by the Bodhisatta, which the king practiced before his passing.[19] (5) The beneficial actions taken by individuals in their past lives, which determine their future states and fortunes.[20]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa鈥擳he Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The virtuous actions performed by Dabba Mahathera throughout his life, contributing to his future achievements and rebirths.[21] (2) The virtuous actions attributed to Culasubhadda in her previous lives, which are referenced as contributing to positive outcomes in her current life.[22] (3) Positive actions performed by the Venerable Kotthita throughout his life that contributed to his spiritual development.[23] (4) The actions aligned with moral and ethical principles, which are essential for spiritual progress in Buddhism.[24] (5) Actions considered virtuous that provide happiness, especially at the time of death.[25]
From: Dhammapada (translated from the Pali)
(1) An action that is morally right and leads to positive consequences, where one does not experience regret afterward.[26] (2) Actions that are morally right and beneficial, which can counterbalance previous wrongdoings.[27] (3) Actions that are beneficial and morally right; these are depicted as challenging to accomplish compared to bad deeds.[28]
From: Cetasikas
(1) Actions motivated by wholesome intentions that result in positive outcomes.[29] (2) A wholesome action motivated by kusala cetana, leading to positive results in the future.[30]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) Positive actions performed to benefit oneself or others, likened here to a boat that allows stones to float.[31] (2) Positive actions done in a former birth that leave an impression on one's heart, aiding in spiritual purity.[32]
From: Patthana Dhamma
(1) Actions that are wholesome and positively contribute to the well-being of oneself and others.[33]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life
(1) Actions that reflect generosity and kindness, which are accomplished through the workings of citta.[34]
From: The Doctrine of Paticcasamuppada
(1) Actions aligned with ethical behavior that yield positive consequences in the cycle of rebirth.[35]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) Actions perceived as positive or wholesome that, if performed with a mindset of seizing conditions, lose their authenticity and true merit.[36] (2) Acts of kindness and charity performed, especially in remembrance of deceased family members.[37] (3) Actions performed with good intent for the benefit of others, essential in cultivating wholesome affinities.[38]
From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva Purvapranidhana Sutra
(1) Actions that contribute to morality and positive karmic outcomes. In the text, they are crucial for gaining protection from evil and ensuring favorable reincarnation.[39] (2) Positive and charitable actions that contribute to one鈥檚 merit and eventual blessings, particularly in the context of Buddhist practices.[40] (3) Actions performed with positive intent that contribute to the cultivation of merit and the alleviation of suffering, particularly for the deceased.[41]
From: Akshayamatinirdesha [english]
(1) This is a form of learning, as learning itself is the essence of good and thus, no regret, indicating the positive impact of learning on actions and overall well-being.[42] (2) Positive actions taken with the intention to benefit others, emphasizing the moral groundwork of compassion.[43] (3) Actions of kindness and generosity that are considered virtuous and contribute to the accumulation of merit on the path to spiritual awakening.[44]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) Actions characterized by charity, morality, justice, and self-denial that the Bodhisattva engages in, aimed at benefiting others.[45]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Having done this good deed, everywhere that I was born, as god or as man, I gained merit.[46]
From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva (Sutra of the Great Vow)
(1) Beneficial actions performed by individuals which can lead to positive outcomes including peace and liberation.[47]
From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra
(1) Virtuous actions that contribute to the spiritual well-being of oneself and others.[48]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) Actions that are ethically sound and contribute to the welfare and happiness of oneself and others.[49]
From: The 6th Patriarch Platform Sutra
(1) Positive actions that contribute to spiritual development and could lead to immediate realization of paradise.[50]
From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva fundamental vow sutra
(1) Positive actions performed with the intention of generating merit and blessings.[51]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) Actions in accordance with one's aspirations that thera Kundadhana was engaged in.[52] (2) A positive action performed by the thera Bhisadayaka that is recalled and celebrated in the text.[53] (3) Meritorious actions performed by individuals that contribute to their spiritual growth and escape from rebirth.[54] (4) Positive actions performed by the thera, remembered and celebrated to express happiness and gratitude.[55] (5) Actions performed with moral intention that accumulate merit and contribute to one's spiritual development across lifetimes.[56]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) Actions performed with the intention of promoting welfare for oneself and others, guided by a full understanding of causality.[57]
Hindu concept of 'Good deed'
In Hinduism, Good deed encompasses positive actions aimed at spiritual progress, performed with moral integrity and intent. Such deeds benefit oneself and others, aligning with divine will, yielding spiritual rewards and favorable outcomes across lives.
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) Actions considered morally right that contribute to the overall happiness and well-being of individuals.[58] (2) Actions that are considered virtuous and morally right, which the individual aims to perform.[59] (3) Actions that are morally positive and beneficial, contributing positively to a person's karma.[60] (4) Actions performed positively by an individual that contribute to their experiences of happiness.[61] (5) Actions that are considered morally positive and beneficial, which may be omitted according to the text.[62]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) This is an action that is considered positive, and the Lord makes those who are to be elevated from the world do it.[63] (2) Actions that produce positive consequences, and they also lose their influence on the individual when the knowledge of Brahman is realized through meditation.[64] (3) Good deeds are actions that align with ethical and moral standards, which are also subject to analysis regarding their clinging and destruction.[65] (4) Acts of virtue that are performed in previous lifetimes, which continue to influence current and future states of existence.[66] (5) A positive action that is meant to produce beneficial results.[67]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) Actions that yield positive outcomes; however, these can be seen as undesirable in the quest for spiritual freedom.[68] (2) An action that the Lord encourages individuals to perform, leading them toward positive outcomes and alignment with the highest Self.[69] (3) Positive actions or behaviors that contribute to the well-being of others and align with moral or ethical standards.[70] (4) A positive action that aligns with moral principles, which is influenced by the highest Self in guiding individuals.[71] (5) Meritorious actions performed by individuals, necessary for ascending the path of the fathers and achieving spiritual rewards.[72]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) An action considered virtuous or beneficial, encouraged by the Lord as part of leading individuals towards righteousness.[73] (2) Positive actions performed by a knower of Brahman, which are mentioned in the context of attaining understanding or knowledge.[74] (3) Actions that are morally positive, which result in favorable outcomes or fruits, as referenced in the Katha text where both birds or beings are said to enjoy the results of their good actions.[75] (4) Positive actions that contribute to one's moral standing, which cease to have an effect on the knower of Brahman.[76]
From: Ashtavakra Gita
(1) Actions considered virtuous or moral, which may lead to rewards but do not guarantee ultimate happiness or liberation.[77]
From: Isopanisad (Madhva commentary)
(1) Actions performed with positive intent and moral integrity as part of one鈥檚 duty.[78]
From: Mandukya Upanishad
(1) Actions intended to be morally positive; however, even the desire to perform them can lead to bondage and rebirth.[79]
From: Mundaka Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) Actions that are beneficial and virtuous, associated with punya in the context of spiritual merit.[80]
From: Katha Upanishad with Shankara鈥檚 Commentary
(1) Actions that are virtuous and morally commendable, resulting in positive outcomes for the doer.[81]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) Righteous actions that are traditionally believed to yield rewards or positive outcomes.[82]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Positive actions that contribute to the well-being of others and reflect virtuous conduct.[83] (2) Acts of righteousness that become rare among those who amass wealth, highlighting the moral implications of wealth accumulation.[84] (3) Actions that are moral and virtuous, leading to happiness and positive results in life.[85] (4) Actions beneficial to others that confer glory in this world and promise divine favor in the afterlife.[86] (5) A righteous or virtuous action performed with the intent of helping others.[87]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) The moral actions of individuals, which are believed to impact their fortunes and, by extension, the advent of virtuous pearl possessors.[88] (2) Positive actions performed by an individual in their previous life that influence their current and future circumstances.[89] (3) The actions performed in life that contribute to moral character and can influence circumstances after death.[90] (4) Actions that benefit others and are seen as the true measures of a worthy life.[91]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) Actions that embody righteousness and virtue, standing in contrast to the actions that attract negative beings.[92] (2) An act that facilitates proper behavior and character, as the Rakshasa states they feed upon the fruits of good actions.[93]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Actions motivated by intention and morality, reflecting the mixed nature of human motivations including selfishness.[94]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) Positive actions taken by men in an effort to rid the world of evil and maintain purity and justice.[95]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) Morally positive actions that are often rewarded in spiritual belief systems.[96]
From: Bhagavadgita
(1) Performing meritorious acts which ensure that one does not come to an evil end.[97]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) Have wrought good deeds, whose glories high Are fresh among us now, meaning that good deeds are important.[98]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Actions that are enjoined or desired to be performed, which are seen as beneficial in the context of moral and ethical teachings.[99] (2) Virtuous actions which qualify an individual as a deserving recipient of gifts and respect.[100] (3) Good deeds are actions performed by beings in past lives that entitle them to reach heaven after overcoming the sinful nature of their current existence.[101] (4) Actions that should be performed in Kurukshetra for quick salvation, as per its etymological significance.[102] (5) Positive actions that a creature enjoys and experiences alone, not shared with others.[103]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) An action or offering believed to align with divine will and is expected to be favorable in the context of sacrificial rites.[104] (2) Actions performed with positive intent that are recognized and appreciated by the gods.[105] (3) A desirable outcome sought in the ritual, signifying the hope for beneficial results from the sacrificial acts.[106] (4) Moral actions that are hoped to be granted by the vidhritis during the sacrifice, aimed at ensuring prosperity and offspring.[107] (5) The actions aimed at virtuous outcomes, which the sacrificer seeks alignment with through his prayers.[108]
From: Hayanaratna: The Jewel of Annual Astrology
(1) This represents positive actions or virtuous conduct, which is an outcome when Mercury has middling strength, implying that it helps in performing beneficial acts and achieving positive results.[109] (2) Good deeds are actions performed by an individual, and when combined with the presence of benefics in the ascendant, abundant riches, including elephants, are enjoyed.[110] (3) Virtuous actions and accomplishments, which are achieved when the ruler of the house in which the ruler of the ascendant resides is in a benefic house, indicating positive actions.[111]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) Effects of punya karma that influence the falling of meteors (ulka) from the higher worlds to Earth.[112]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) Acts of kindness and virtue that accumulate merit and impact one's spiritual journey and future experiences.[113] (2) The actions leading one to attain higher realms and experiences, counterbalancing the consequences of evil deeds.[114] (3) Actions motivated by altruism and goodness, believed to lead to favorable outcomes.[115]
From: Shukra Niti by Shukracharya
(1) Actions undertaken that are virtuous and positively impact the kingdom and its subjects.[116] (2) Meritorious actions that contribute to one鈥檚 own welfare and that of society.[117]
From: Kautilya Arthashastra
(1) Positive actions that should be acknowledged by the king.[118]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) Actions that align with moral virtues and are reflected in the vedic rituals performed by the pious.[119] (2) Positive actions that contribute to one's spiritual merit and development.[120]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Acts that are morally positive and beneficial, contributing to one's spiritual progress.[121]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) Stories and actions attributed to the Ashvins that illustrate their roles as helpers and benefactors in human affairs.[122]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) Positive actions performed during one's life, which can be undone if a proper burial-place is not prepared.[123]
Jain concept of 'Good deed'
In Jainism, a good deed encompasses virtuous actions that influence future happiness, counteract evil deeds, and contribute positively from past lives, classified as shubha, and includes kindness and charity benefiting others.
From: Naladiyar
(1) Actions performed in past lives that contribute positively to one's current life experiences and rewards.[124] (2) A virtuous action performed during a life that can influence one's future experiences of happiness or misery.[125] (3) Acts of kindness and charity that are beneficial to others and can yield positive outcomes for the giver.[126] (4) Actions that produce positive effects, which can counteract the presence of evil deeds.[127]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Actions that are positive and beneficial, discussed by Gautama in the context of Ahikumara's lifestyle.[128]
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) These deeds are classified as shubha and are accumulated in the regions of labour.[129]
The concept of Good deed in local and regional sources
Good deed encompasses positive actions celebrated in narratives, fostering moral virtues and contributing to the welfare of others, ultimately leading to spiritual progress and divine blessings, while also reflecting social purity and community values.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) Virtuous actions carried out, which may contribute to one鈥檚 spiritual progress, possibly from past lives.[130] (2) Moral actions performed by a Brahman that provoke disgust among the wicked.[131] (3) Actions that are performed with good intention and moral integrity, contributing positively to oneself or others.[132] (4) Actions performed with virtuous intent, believed to influence one's life positively and serve as a foundation for respect and reverence.[133] (5) The acts and virtues of Hari that Eknath sings about in his kirtana.[134]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) This describes virtuous actions, representing the positive impact of Dharmashoka's actions and the transformation in his character after embracing Buddhism.[135] (2) Good deeds are described as something that will prevent grief, emphasizing the positive consequences of doing good actions.[136] (3) Those whose accumulated force of past good deeds has caused the scales of ignorance to fall off from their eyes, making them see through the vanity of name and form.[137] (4) An aspect of a practical and wise religion, which means doing something that helps another person.[138] (5) The text indicates that even commendable actions can lead to confinement, suggesting a need to avoid attachment to them and to avoid the pursuit of recognition.[139]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Positive actions intended for the welfare of others, which may be undermined or ridiculed by laughter.[140] (2) Actions that are morally positive and beneficial to others, playing a crucial role in the concept of righteousness.[141] (3) Acts of kindness and altruism that are emphasized as essential for a fulfilling life.[142] (4) Acts of kindness or morality performed for others.[143]