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Significance of Benevolence

Benevolence is a vital concept that encompasses actions driven by compassion and goodwill towards all beings, particularly noted in Jainism as a trait of advanced yogadrishti holders. In the context of the Arthashastra, it highlights the importance of wishing well for others for one's spiritual health. Vyakarana identifies it as a power symbolizing kindness and generosity, while Dharmashastra emphasizes the giving nature of Brahmanas inspired by goodwill. Additionally, in Indian history, benevolence is linked to Confucian ethics, requiring kindness and justice in interpersonal interactions.1
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Synonyms: Kindness, Goodwill, Generosity, Compassion, Charity, Altruism, Leniency, Magnanimity, Munificence, Beneficence, Philanthropy

In Dutch: Welwillendheid; In Finnish: ±á²â±¹Ã¤²Ô³Ù²¹³ó³Ù´Ç¾±²õ³Ü³Ü²õ; In Spanish: Benevolencia; In German: Wohlwollen

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Benevolence'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, Benevolence is seen as a heartfelt wish for others' well-being, essential for spiritual growth, characterized by the selfless giving of a Brahmana, and recognized as one of ten key powers embodying kindness and generosity.

Significance in Dharmashastra (religious law):
Dharmashastra Books

From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi

(1) The act of the Brahmana giving away what belongs to others, driven by goodwill.[1]

Dharmashastra contains the instructions (shastra) regarding religious conduct of livelihood (dharma), ceremonies, jurisprudence (study of law) and more. It is categorized as smriti, an important and authoritative selection of books dealing with the Hindu lifestyle.

Significance in Arthashastra (politics and welfare):
Arthashastra Books

From: Tirukkural (Thirukkural)

(1) A heartfelt quality of wishing well for others, which is crucial for one's own spiritual well-being.[2]

Arthashastra literature concerns itself with the teachings (shastra) of economic prosperity (artha) statecraft, politics and military tactics. The term arthashastra refers to both the name of these scientific teachings, as well as the name of a Sanskrit work included in such literature. This book was written (3rd century BCE) by by Kautilya, who flourished in the 4th century BCE.

The concept of Benevolence in local and regional sources

History Books

Benevolence encompasses kindness, goodwill, and a commitment to benefiting others. It is essential in Confucian ethics, promoting justice and moral integrity in interpersonal relations, reflecting a deep-seated quality for harmonious coexistence.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) The quality of being well-meaning and kind, particularly in actions aimed at benefiting others.[3] (2) A requirement for living alongside truth, indicating a quality of kindness and goodwill.[4] (3) A core virtue in Confucian ethics, where one must exercise kindness and justice in dealings with others.[5]