Significance of Guilt
Guilt is a multifaceted concept recognized across various perspectives. Kavya defines it as transgressions acknowledged by the devotee, while Dharmashastra and Mahayana emphasize the state of wrongdoing and moral responsibility linked to sinful actions. Theravada presents it as the realization of wrong deeds, and historical accounts in India depict guilt as an emotional burden resulting from past sins affecting generations. Overall, guilt embodies the recognition of faults and the resulting remorse over prohibited actions.
Synonyms: Remorse, Regret, Culpability, Responsibility, Shame, Contrition, Penitence, Fault., Self-reproach
In Dutch: Schuld; In Finnish: Syyllisyys; In Spanish: Culpa
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Guilt'
In Buddhism, guilt encompasses the recognition of wrongdoing, as noted by a bhikkhu's lack of guilt over unused water, and highlights the ethical burden from immoral actions, particularly in illicit relationships.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The state of having done something wrong, which the bhikkhu versed in Suttas claimed he did not possess regarding the water left behind.[1]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The moral and ethical responsibility or wrongdoing one incurs when engaging in illicit relationships or actions.[2]
Hindu concept of 'Guilt'
In Hinduism, Guilt encompasses feelings of remorse for sinful acts, the recognition of transgressions, and a state of accountability that can be alleviated through specific practices, applicable to both genders in certain contexts.
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The feeling of remorse or responsibility for having committed acts that are prohibited and considered sinful.[3] (2) The state of having committed an offense, applied equally to both men and women in certain contexts.[4]
From: Baudhayana Dharmasutra
(1) The state of having committed sins that can be alleviated through certain practices.[5]
The concept of Guilt in local and regional sources
Guilt is described as the emotional burden arising from sin and past actions, influencing individuals and their descendants. This emotional weight can permeate generations, highlighting its profound and lasting impact on personal and communal experiences.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Describes the emotional burden stemming from sin and past actions, affecting individuals across generations as understood in the text.[6]