Significance of Virtuous deed
In various spiritual and philosophical traditions, the concept of Virtuous deed encompasses actions deemed morally good or beneficial to both the individual and society. In Jainism, it highlights the integrity and honor in challenging situations, while Tibetan Buddhism emphasizes actions that align with moral teachings. Other traditions, such as Vaishnavism and Purana, reflect on miraculous acts and spiritual elevation through good conduct. Across all these views, Virtuous deed contributes to spiritual growth, societal well-being, and, in some cases, favorable outcomes in the afterlife.
Synonyms: Noble act, Righteous behavior, Good deed, Good act, Righteous action, Noble deed, Good deeds, Commendable acts, Ethical conduct
In Dutch: Deugdzame daad; In Finnish: Hy枚dyllinen teko; In Spanish: Obra virtuosa; In German: Tugendhafte Tat
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Virtuous deed'
In Buddhism, a "Virtuous deed" encompasses positive actions that promote spiritual growth, moral integrity, and favorable outcomes for oneself and others, ultimately leading to enlightenment and positive karma across lifetimes.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) Good actions performed by individuals, which are discussed as important for achieving glory and favorable rebirth in the story.[1] (2) An action that is morally good and leads to lasting fame and recognition for the doer.[2] (3) Actions that are morally upright and beneficial, reinforcing the narrative's emphasis on ethical behavior and spirituality.[3] (4) Actions that the characters believe lead to virtues that can prevent death in youth.[4] (5) A good action performed by Baka in past existences, which the Master recalls to illustrate the temporary nature of existence.[5]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) Actions that are commendable and contribute to one's merit, allowing individuals to rejoice in both current and future existences.[6] (2) Actions performed with good intentions, which are believed to lead to favorable outcomes and spiritual benefits in future existences.[7]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) Actions that are considered morally good and beneficial to oneself and the community.[8] (2) Actions such as charity (Dana) and morality (S铆la) that lead to positive outcomes in future existences.[9]
From: Patthanuddesa Dipani
(1) Actions performed that are morally commendable, which bring about positive results or rewards in future existences.[10]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa鈥擳he Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) Good actions carried out by Ghosaka and his wife that contributed to their eventual rise in status.[11]
From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva fundamental vow sutra
(1) A positive action performed in accordance with Buddhist teachings, which cultivates merit and facilitates spiritual progress.[12] (2) Good actions performed by sentient beings that result in protection and blessings from higher powers.[13] (3) Good actions performed in accordance with Buddhist principles that lead to positive outcomes for both the doer and the deceased.[14]
From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva (Sutra of the Great Vow)
(1) Actions taken with good intentions that cultivate positive karma and lead to favorable outcomes.[15] (2) Good actions carried out by Kshitigarbha Bodhisattva in the interest of all living things.[16]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) Actions that are morally good and lead to happiness.[17]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) Positive actions that are encouraged as a means of growth and enlightenment, counterbalancing the suffering experienced by the ghosts.[18]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) Actions that are morally right or beneficial, particularly within the context of Buddhism and practicing the teachings.[19]
Hindu concept of 'Virtuous deed'
In Hinduism, a Virtuous deed encompasses morally good actions aligned with Dharma, promoting spiritual growth, benefiting society, and reflecting ethical principles, ultimately leading to meaningful living and positive repercussions in one's existence and afterlife.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Acts performed by individuals that align with moral values and contribute positively to society.[20] (2) Actions that are morally commendable, which Pandu is expected to uphold given his lineage.[21] (3) Moral actions that align with righteousness, which Vasudeva questions regarding Karna's behavior.[22] (4) Acts characterized by morality and righteousness, which ensure one's place in heaven according to the narrative.[23] (5) Describes Kunti鈥檚 contemplated act as noble and morally sound despite the implications of sacrifice involved.[24]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Moral actions that align with dharma, highlighting the struggle of the Pandavas despite their righteousness.[25]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Actions that elevate the soul above others and contribute to spiritual fulfillment.[26]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) Actions performed by ascetics that result in positive outcomes in the celestial realm.[27]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) An action that is morally good or righteous, as referenced in the discourse on the consequences of one's actions.[28]
From: Padarthadharmasamgraha and Nyayakandali
(1) Actions that are considered morally good and have positive repercussions in the experience of living beings.[29] (2) Actions performed with moral integrity and positive intentions, typically leading to beneficial outcomes or higher states of existence.[30]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Righteous actions performed by the subjects, contributing to their spiritual merit, which is partially shared with the king.[31]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The noble actions performed by individuals which ultimately contribute to their recognition and status, exemplified by Taravaloka giving away his wishing-tree and body.[32]
From: Prashna Upanishad with Shankara鈥檚 Commentary
(1) Actions performed in accordance with moral and ethical principles as prescribed by sacred texts.[33]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) Miraculous actions performed by Krishna, highlighting His divine nature and capability to overcome adversity with ease.[34]
From: Tirukkural (Thirukkural)
(1) Actions that are morally good, reflecting the character of those of noble birth.[35]
Jain concept of 'Virtuous deed'
In Jainism, a Virtuous deed embodies actions reflecting honor, integrity, and the fulfillment of promises, as exemplified by figures like Rama and Lakshmana, especially when confronted with challenges and adversity.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Actions undertaken by characters like Rama and Lakshmana to uphold their honor, integrity, and promises in the face of adversity.[36]
The concept of Virtuous deed in local and regional sources
Virtuous deed signifies the importance of freeing individuals from superstitions, allowing unobstructed access to knowledge. This liberation is essential for achieving a deeper experience of God, which represents the ultimate spiritual objective.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) These actions remove the obstruction that prevents one from seeing knowledge, and only knowledge can lead to the experience of God, which is the ultimate goal.[37] (2) The text questions the practice of making people do these by teaching superstitions, suggesting a need for liberation and the removal of constraints on individuals.[38]