Significance of Moral virtue
Moral virtue in various philosophical and religious contexts encompasses a set of ethical principles and qualities essential for spiritual growth and righteous living. In Jainism, it includes high ethical standards, practices of austerity, and ten disciplines of self-restraint. Similarly, the Purana and Kavya highlight qualities like truthfulness and ethical conduct as vital. In Shaivism and Mahayana, moral virtues guide behavior and are fundamental to individual development. Overall, moral virtue is viewed as crucial for achieving positive character traits and a better existence across these teachings.
Synonyms: Moral excellence, Righteousness, Virtuousness, Integrity, Character, Rectitude, Morality, Goodness, Uprightness
In Dutch: Morele deugd; In Finnish: Moraalinen hyve; In Spanish: Virtud moral; In German: Moralische Tugend; In Malay: Kebajikan akhlak; In Swedish: Moralisk dygd; In French: La vertu morale
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Moral virtue'
Moral virtue in Buddhism encompasses guidelines for ethical conduct, charitable actions, and the qualities that promote righteousness. It is essential for spiritual growth, guiding individuals to live justly and achieve favorable rebirth, emphasizing adherence to moral principles.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) Traits of character that promote good conduct, which the story reinforces as essential for achieving a favorable rebirth.[1] (2) Generally implies the qualities like being virtuous, ethical living, and adherence to moral standards as crucial for spiritual growth.[2] (3) The ethical behavior and good deeds an individual performs, greatly discussed throughout the text in relation to consequences.[3] (4) The qualities and conduct that define righteous behavior, which the Bodhisatta reflects on throughout his experiences.[4] (5) High ethical standards and principles guiding the conduct and life of an individual.[5]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The quality of having moral principles that guide actions toward what is right and just.[6] (2) A quality that enables individuals to achieve advantages and avoid disadvantages in life, as emphasized by the Buddha.[7]
From: Cetasikas
(1) Qualities characterized by ethical behavior and adherence to moral codes.[8]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Moral virtues (shila) are essential qualities associated with ethical conduct that contribute to spiritual progress.[9]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) Guidelines in the Bodhisattva's path that include practicing good conduct and engaging in charitable actions.[10]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) The ethical and righteous qualities that the Buddha and his teachings emphasize for individuals to cultivate in their lives.[11]
Hindu concept of 'Moral virtue'
Moral virtue in Hinduism encompasses ethical principles guiding actions, character, and spiritual standing. It includes qualities like celibacy and truthfulness, essential for righteous living and personal development, intertwined with economic well-being and societal benefit.
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) The principles guiding individuals towards righteous behavior and interactions.[12]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The ethical principles guiding actions and gifts, essential for establishing one's character and spiritual standing.[13]
From: Kamashastra Discourse (Life in Ancient India)
(1) Ethical qualities seen as essential for personal development and deemed dependent on economic well-being.[14]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) Qualities deemed beneficial for individuals and society; embodies aspects of being Cinmatra.[15]
Jain concept of 'Moral virtue'
In Jainism, moral virtue encompasses positive traits like patience and compassion, a commitment to austerity, high ethical standards, self-restraint through ten disciplines, and guiding ethical principles that foster spiritual growth and virtuous living.
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) The ten ethical principles that guide virtuous actions and meditative practices.[16] (2) A set of values that includes austerity and other practices that contribute to spiritual growth.[17] (3) Positive characteristics and behaviors such as patience and compassion that help curb negative passions and lead to a better existence.[18] (4) The ten disciplines that encompass ethical conduct, involving self-restraint and adherence to vows.[19]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Reflects the high ethical standards demonstrated by Sumitra, who intervenes for Prabhava.[20]
The concept of Moral virtue in local and regional sources
Moral virtue encompasses high ethical qualities like love and forgiveness, principles of righteousness highlighted by Nehru in non-alignment, and desirable character traits emphasized by Bacon, reflecting essential human values cultivated through devotion and ethical conduct.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The character traits viewed as good and desirable, emphasized by Bacon as essential to humanity.[21] (2) High ethical qualities such as love, sympathy, and forgiveness that are instilled in individuals through prayer and devotion.[22] (3) Principles of righteousness and ethical behavior that Nehru often discussed as part of his non-alignment stance.[23]