Significance of Sense of shame
The concept of Sense of shame is explored through various perspectives in Buddhism, Vaishnavism, Purana, Kavya, Theravada, and Indian history. It encompasses feelings of embarrassment and moral awareness linked to recognizing wrong actions or thoughts. This sense can lead individuals to reflect on personal dignity and responsibilities, influencing their ethical behavior and societal interactions. Additionally, it acts as a moral compass, guiding actions to avoid dishonor or wrongdoing while fostering a sense of humility and community values.
Synonyms: Embarrassment, Guilt, Disgrace, Dishonor, Humiliation, Mortification, Remorse, Self-consciousness, Blushing, Indignity
In Dutch: Gevoel van schaamte; In Finnish: ±áä±è±ðä²Ô³Ù³Ü²Ô²Ô±ð; In Spanish: Sentimiento de vergüenza; In German: ³§³¦³ó²¹³¾²µ±ð´Úü³ó±ô; In Malay: Rasa malu; In Swedish: Känslan av skam; In French: Sentiment de honte
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Sense of shame'
In Buddhism, Sense of shame embodies moral awareness that guides ethical conduct, prevents dishonorable actions, and acts as an emotional compass, emphasizing the importance of recognizing wrongdoing and fostering mindfulness among monks.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The moral awareness and embarrassment that the Brother lost, leading to his inappropriate conduct before the Master.[1] (2) A moral feeling that prompts one to recognize the wrongdoing of one's actions or possessions.[2]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The recognition of moral rightness that should accompany a monk’s life, which Bahubhandika temporarily discarded.[3] (2) The emotional awareness that inspires individuals to avoid dishonorable actions and promotes ethical living.[4]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (1): Bhikkhu-vibhanga (the analysis of Monks� rules)
(1) The feeling experienced by mindful monks who were aware of the immorality in the actions of the group of six monks.[5] (2) An important quality lacking in some monks, which highlights the need for ethical behavior.[6]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The inner awareness that acts as a moral compass to prevent Rahula from speaking lies.[7] (2) The awareness or recognition of wrongdoing that some bhikkhus lack.[8]
From: Patipada (path of practice)
(1) This is the feeling one should have in themselves and in their hearts to prevent them from spreading such talk that has no good purpose.[9] (2) An awareness of ethical boundaries and responsibility that should guide a Bhikkhu's behavior, particularly regarding material desires.[10]
From: Cetasikas
(1) A mental quality that prevents individuals from engaging in wrong actions due to fear of moral reproach.[11]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) A feeling that arises from recognizing wrong actions or thoughts, which Nanda cultivated to achieve control over his senses.[12]
Hindu concept of 'Sense of shame'
In Hinduism, the Sense of shame encapsulates honor and morality, guiding ethical behavior, influencing familial relationships, preventing open emotional expression, and promoting humility, while highlighting the importance of moral awareness within community dynamics.
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) A feeling of embarrassment and regret that arises from recognizing one’s false pride and the responsibilities associated with it.[13]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) A feeling that prevents individuals from openly expressing their emotions and joining in spiritual acts, often due to societal pressure or self-consciousness.[14]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) A moral indicator that promotes ethical behavior; a value that should be present in a community.[15]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The lack of moral integrity demonstrated by the Brahmin when chiding the mother for her grief.[16]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The moral awareness that, when lost, encourages individuals to act without regard for their dignity or the disgrace of others.[17]
The concept of Sense of shame in local and regional sources
The sense of shame encompasses feelings of guilt and embarrassment about one's actions or circumstances, influencing emotional responses tied to societal expectations, personal experiences, and cultural contexts, shaping individual and community behaviors.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A feeling of guilt or embarrassment that arises from societal expectations and personal experiences.[18] (2) The feeling of embarrassment or guilt, particularly regarding one's own actions, which the narrator grapples with in his longing for the girl.[19] (3) A concept brought up by the beggar to criticize the woman's lack of propriety or dignified behavior.[20] (4) The emotional response of the danseuses caused by the disapproval of the masters regarding their performances.[21] (5) The feeling of guilt or embarrassment regarding one’s actions or circumstances.[22]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) The lack of self-consciousness that Narsi Meheta displayed in singing the praises of Shri Hari.[23] (2) A feeling of guilt or embarrassment regarding one's actions or situation.[24] (3) The emotional response the Brahman experiences when he is prompted to discard his traditional attire.[25] (4) An acceptance of embarrassment that Santaji's wife is encouraged to relinquish while begging for food.[26] (5) The feeling Santoba experienced as he renounced worldly status and possessions, particularly in relation to his wife's material wealth.[27]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) This describes the man's behavior after the woman's departure, indicating a decline in his moral standards.[28]