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Significance of Veracity

Veracity, as defined in Dharmashastra, encompasses two main aspects: the quality of being truthful and the inability to distort the truth. This concept is particularly relevant in the context of witness reliability, where it is suggested that women are often deemed unfit to testify based on perceptions of their capacity for truthfulness. The emphasis on veracity highlights its significance in determining the dependability of individuals in judicial matters.

Synonyms: Truthfulness, Accuracy, Precision, Honesty, Integrity, Reliability, Authenticity, Correctness

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

Hindu concept of 'Veracity'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, veracity signifies an individual's inability to distort truth, establishing their credibility as a witness. It also reflects the cultural belief that women's truthfulness may render them unsuitable for such roles.

Significance in Dharmashastra (religious law):
Dharmashastra Books

From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi

(1) The quality of being truthful; it is mentioned as a reason why women are often considered unfit to serve as witnesses.[1] (2) The incapability of a person to pervert truth, which indicates their reliability as a witness.[2]

Dharmashastra contains the instructions (shastra) regarding religious conduct of livelihood (dharma), ceremonies, jurisprudence (study of law) and more. It is categorized as smriti, an important and authoritative selection of books dealing with the Hindu lifestyle.

Significance in Yoga (school of philosophy):
Yoga Books

From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)

(1) Veracity (satya) consists of aligning one's words and thoughts with facts, ensuring that communication serves the good of others and is free from deception.[3]

Yoga is originally considered a branch of Hindu philosophy (astika), but both ancient and modern Yoga combine the physical, mental and spiritual. Yoga teaches various physical techniques also known as asanas (postures), used for various purposes (eg., meditation, contemplation, relaxation).

Significance in Arthashastra (politics and welfare):
Arthashastra Books

From: Tirukkural (Thirukkural)

(1) The commitment to truth and honesty, seen as foundational to a virtuous life.[4]

Arthashastra literature concerns itself with the teachings (shastra) of economic prosperity (artha) statecraft, politics and military tactics. The term arthashastra refers to both the name of these scientific teachings, as well as the name of a Sanskrit work included in such literature. This book was written (3rd century BCE) by by Kautilya, who flourished in the 4th century BCE.