Significance of Truthfulness
Truthfulness is regarded as a fundamental value across various religious and philosophical traditions. In Hinduism and related texts, it is seen as the highest form of worship and essential for spiritual integrity. Traditions like Jainism emphasize honest communication, while Tibetan Buddhism defines truthfulness as dependent on virtues and omniscience. Vaishnavism and the Puranas highlight its significance in personal conduct and as a pathway to spiritual growth. Truthfulness is essential for achieving ethical living, moral integrity, and divine blessings, marking its importance in multiple contexts.
Synonyms: Honesty, Integrity, Sincerity, Authenticity, Veracity, Straightforwardness
In Dutch: Waarheidsgetrouwheid; In Finnish: Totuudenmukaisuus; In Spanish: Veracidad; In German: Wahrhaftigkeit; In Swedish: Sanning; In Malay: Kejujuran; In French: ³Õé°ù²¹³¦¾±³Ùé; In Finnish: Totuudellisuus; In Swedish: Sanningsenlighet
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Truthfulness'
Truthfulness in Buddhism embodies honesty, integrity, and sincerity in thoughts, words, and actions. It emphasizes the importance of keeping promises, characterized by virtues exemplified in stories of the Bodhisatta, and counters biases from craving and aversion.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) A quality characterized by honesty and integrity in speech, aligning with the concept of speaking straight and truthfully.[1] (2) A virtue displayed by the Bodhisatta, corresponding to the clarity and quality of his physical attributes, particularly related to his words and demeanor.[2] (3) Integrity in speech and actions that counters bias caused by cravings and aversion.[3]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The quality of being honest and sincere in one's words and actions.[4] (2) A key virtue referenced in the story, which is associated with not lying and maintaining integrity.[5] (3) A characteristic that emphasizes the importance of keeping promises and speaking honestly in all situations.[6]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) The virtue portrayed in six stories, highlighting the importance of honesty in the Bodhisatta’s character.[7] (2) A parami committed to honesty and integrity in thoughts, words, and actions.[8]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) The quality of being true, which is contingent upon the presence of specific excellences or virtues.[9] (2) The quality of being truthful, which is dependent on the presence of omniscience in the same person.[10] (3) The quality of being truthful, which does not become proved solely by the absence of defects, as there exists a third alternative of meaninglessness.[11] (4) Truthfulness is the quality or state of being true, posited to preside in entities that are not categorized as products.[12]
Hindu concept of 'Truthfulness'
Truthfulness in Hinduism is viewed as a paramount ethical principle, embodying honesty and integrity in thoughts, words, and actions. It is essential for moral conduct, spiritual growth, and divine favor, represented as the highest virtue and crucial for righteousness.
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) An ethical principle noted alongside other observances that supports moral conduct and purification.[13] (2) The commitment to speak what is true, ensuring that it is also agreeable and acceptable.[14] (3) The vow to speak the truth and uphold honesty.[15] (4) The habit of saying things just as they are seen.[16] (5) The practice of being honest and sincere in one's words and actions.[17]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The quality of being truthful, which is emphasized as the highest virtue and crucial for attaining heavenly rewards.[18] (2) A moral quality that is associated with the presence of Krishna, indicating integrity and honesty.[19] (3) The quality of being honest and accurate.[20] (4) The quality of being honest that can incur danger.[21]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) The moral quality upheld by the Muni which was deemed vital for acquiring virtue and maintaining one's honor.[22] (2) The king's wife urges him to maintain his truthfulness as the highest righteousness.[23]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) A virtue regarded as obligatory for all individuals, emphasizing honesty and integrity.[24]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) A characteristic of Ila that earned her praises from the deities, illustrating her moral standing.[25]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The practice of being honest and sincere, which contributes to spiritual growth and purity in character.[26]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) Upholding honesty, which is a vital part of purifying the mind and connecting with the Self.[27] (2) The quality of being truthful and sincere in one's words and actions.[28] (3) Consistently adhering to truth, which becomes a natural part of one’s self through the practice of brahmacarya, ultimately leading to moral integrity.[29]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The quality of being honest and straightforward, which is highlighted as a rightful duty of a Brahmana.[30] (2) An ethical principle essential for maintaining the integrity of the Sacrifice.[31]
From: Mundaka Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) An essential quality to achieve Atmaic bliss, signifying the importance of honesty in spiritual pursuit.[32]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) The quality of being honest and sincere.[33] (2) The quality of being truthful and honest in one’s words and actions.[34]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The quality of being honest and consistent in one's statements and actions.[35]
From: Shukra Niti by Shukracharya
(1) A crucial quality expected from witnesses and officials in the legal process.[36]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) A virtue that a Jyotishaka must embody, signifying honesty in words and actions.[37]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) Considered the highest form of worship, it is vital for maintaining the established fires and one's spiritual integrity.[38]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) A crucial attribute of brahmana, representing honesty and integrity.[39]
Jain concept of 'Truthfulness'
In Jainism, Truthfulness embodies a fundamental principle of dharma, emphasizing honesty in thoughts, words, and actions, while promoting truthful communication and the rejection of deceptive practices.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A key principle of dharma that promotes honesty in thought, word, and deed.[40] (2) A concept focusing on honest communication and the avoidance of deceitful behaviors.[41]
The concept of Truthfulness in local and regional sources
Truthfulness is a fundamental value exemplified by Rama, reflecting his dedication to honesty and integrity in his actions and decisions, emphasizing the importance of being truthful in personal conduct.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The core value upheld by Rama, intertwining his actions and decisions with a steadfast commitment to honesty and integrity.[42]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) This is the second aspect of Tapasya, which involves verbal expression and honesty, ensuring the accurate representation of facts.[43]