Significance of Evil
Synonyms: Wicked, Malevolent, Sinful, Immoral, Sinister, Malicious, Wrong, Corrupted, Vile
In Finnish: Paha; In Dutch: Kwaadaardig; In Spanish: Demonio; In German: Teuflisch
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Evil'
In Buddhism, evil is perceived as a concept that prompts reflection and questioning. It emphasizes the heart's ability to train and discern the nature of good and evil, suggesting their relative validity rather than absolute truths.
From: Patipada (path of practice)
(1) This is something that is questioned in the text, and the text suggests that these are not beyond the ability of the heart which does the training well to know and gain value from such questions, such as whether good and evil are true things.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Evil'
In Hinduism, Evil embodies negative consequences linked to misfortunes and unfavorable planetary influences, manifesting as hardships. These adverse effects are assessed through astrology, indicating harmful outcomes associated with various aspects of life and celestial positions.
From: Hayanaratna: The Jewel of Annual Astrology
(1) A negative outcome or result that is predicted based on astrological configurations, especially those involving the ruler of the month and the relationships between planets.[2] (2) Evil is a concept used in the text, in the context of the radda configuration, to illustrate how planetary positions can affect the outcomes of a question.[3] (3) Evils are mentioned in the text as a factor associated with the eighth house, referring to negative or harmful influences, which can manifest in various forms, impacting a person's well-being.[4] (4) This represents negative consequences or misfortunes, and is associated with unfavorable planetary influences, which can bring about hardship or trouble.[5] (5) Evil is a term used to describe the outcomes when the moon is not in the domicile or exaltation of the planet involved in an itthashala, representing a negative consequence associated with the gairikambula configuration as it is described.[6]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) A negative outcome indicated by certain behaviors or sounds of birds, particularly doves and the cuckoo.[7]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) A contaminating force that the Asuras associate with the sensory organs, resulting in the perception of both good and foul experiences.[8]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) Individuals who hold a contrary belief compared to the good regarding the nature of creation and its creator.[9]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) Refers to the negative consequences or suffering that arise from the erroneous identification of the self with the body.[10]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) This is shaken off by the individual, which is similar to how a horse shakes its hair, indicating the elimination of something negative from the individual's experience.[11]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) A negative force that is dispelled by the sun and impacts the seasons and their associations with gods and fathers.[12]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) Refers to harmful influences or actions that are kept away by the grace of the Lord.[13]
The concept of Evil in local and regional sources
The keyphrase "Evil" encompasses a duality of opposing forces, representing not only moral wrongs and suffering but also the potential for transformation and freedom through overcoming associations, illustrating its complex relationship with the concept of good.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) We see evil, because we throw a veil of delusion over what we look at, and then we see evil; it is a result of misperception.[14] (2) Evil is discussed in the context of love being the only cure for it, showcasing a central theme in the Swami's teachings and discussions during the journey.[15] (3) Something that is morally wrong; begetting this should be avoided, as part of Yama, the first step of restraining the mind.[16] (4) These are of association; he who has conquered the evils of association, he alone is azad (free); this is one of the qualities of a liberated individual.[17] (5) The bad things that exist in the world, which the young lady was talking about, and she knew the remedy for them.[18]
From: Bede's Ecclesiastical History of England
(1) The authors of the evil were sought out and condemned by the bishops after the people were found constant in the faith.[19] (2) This was believed to be brought upon them due to their wicked deeds, illustrating the perceived connection between actions and consequences.[20]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A presence that haunts lives and causes suffering, often perceived as a dire ghost.[21]