Significance of Jealousy
Jealousy, referred to as Matsarya in English and Sanskrit, is portrayed as a complex and destructive emotion across various philosophical and religious contexts. In Jainism, it manifests as fear of loss impacting relationships, while in Vaishnavism, it is linked to possessiveness and animosity among characters like Shri Parvati and Satyabhama. Historical and mythological narratives illustrate jealousy as a source of conflict and tragedy, emphasizing its role as a negative trait that undermines harmony and fosters destructive behaviors in interpersonal dynamics.
Synonyms: Envy, Covetousness, Resentment, Rivalry, Spite, Bitterness
In Dutch: Jaloezie; In Finnish: Kateus; In Spanish: Celos; In German: Eifersucht; In Swedish: Svartsjuka; In Malay: Cemburu; In French: Jalousie
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Jealousy'
In Buddhism, jealousy is seen as a destructive emotion characterized by envy, insecurity, and resentment towards others' success. It manifests as negative feelings, motivates harmful actions, and is one of the traits to overcome on the path to enlightenment.
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) One of the nine negative traits that should be eliminated in the path to achieving Arahatta Phala.[1]
From: A Manual of Abhidhamma
(1) A feeling of insecurity or fear that arises from the belief that others have something desirable that one lacks.[2]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa鈥擳he Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The emotion experienced by the resident monk who felt envious of the attention given to the guest monk by the rich donor.[3]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Kokalika's emotional response to the two disciples, which motivated him to spread false accusations against them.[4]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) A mind poison characterized by resentment towards others' successes or happiness, which can lead to ill will.[5]
Hindu concept of 'Jealousy'
In Hinduism, jealousy is perceived as a destructive emotion linked to admiration, insecurity, and rivalry, influencing conflicts, actions of figures like Satyabhama and Parvati, and is generally discouraged due to its disruptive impact.
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) An emotional response characterized by anger and possessiveness, as expressed in the context of manini.[6] (2) A potential emotional response that may arise in Shri Parvati from overhearing the intimate secret being shared.[7] (3) An emotion that Shri Satyabhama-devi experienced, leading her to leave the assembly.[8]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) An emotion experienced by Lapita that influences her response to Mandapala's concerns about his children.[9]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) The emotion experienced by Satyabhama as a reaction to Rukshmini鈥檚 good fortune.[10]
From: Padarthadharmasamgraha and Nyayakandali
(1) Jealousy is an aversive feeling directed towards the admirable qualities possessed by another individual.[11]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) A recurring theme represented through the actions of queens and figures who act against one another out of spite and rivalry.[12]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A feeling that often motivates calumniating others, stemming from insecurity or envy.[13]
Jain concept of 'Jealousy'
In Jainism, jealousy is seen as an emotional reaction fueled by fear of loss and perceived threats, significantly influencing interpersonal dynamics, especially among women in narrative contexts.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A theme that drives actions within the story, particularly affecting the relationships among the women.[14] (2) An emotional response often stemming from fear of losing a loved one or feeling threatened.[15]
The concept of Jealousy in local and regional sources
Jealousy is presented as a destructive emotion influencing various characters and themes, ranging from resentment against others' successes to causing significant consequences in literature and personal relationships, emphasizing its detrimental impact on both individuals and society.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) This describes the emotion that the author believes has caused the person named Mazoomdar to behave in a negative manner, specifically by making accusations.[16] (2) This is an idea that the people will give up when it comes to practical work, and act under the direction of a capable man.[17] (3) The author warns against envy, which indicates that it is a destructive emotion.[18] (4) This is considered the root of all evil, which is something that should not be present in regards to objects of the senses, and is a difficult thing to conquer.[19] (5) Mazoomdar must have gone mad with this emotion.[20]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) This describes a feeling that the professor experienced at the end, as he reflected on his research and the events that had transpired.[21] (2) A destructive emotion portrayed in characters like Othello and Leontes that leads to catastrophic decisions and outcomes.[22] (3) An emotion Flush experiences, particularly in response to the birth of Miss Barrett鈥檚 child.[23] (4) The theme explored in Donne's first elegy that unravels the consequences of possessive love.[24] (5) An emotion that Lingadu experiences due to suspicion about Eramma's loyalty, which highlights themes of mistrust in relationships.[25]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) A feeling of resentment against someone due to their success or advantages, which was evident among those who criticized Damaji.[26]
From: Folklore of the Santal Parganas
(1) The emotion felt by the second wife towards her stepson, which fueled her demand for his death.[27]
From: Sanskrit Words In Southeast Asian Languages
(1) Jealousy is the English translation of Matsarya, and it is the feeling of being envious, and it means the same thing as the Skt. c Matsarya.[28]