Significance of Hiri
Hiri, according to Theravada, is the feeling of shame linked to the wrongdoing associated with one's moral dignity and honour. It acts as a mental factor that inhibits harmful actions by evoking emotions related to potential disgrace. Furthermore, Hiri embodies a moral sense of conscience, preventing individuals from engaging in unwholesome behavior. This emotional component emphasizes the importance of moral integrity and responsibility in one's actions, highlighting the significance of Hiri in ethical considerations.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Hiri'
Hiri in Buddhism encompasses moral shame that deter wrongdoing, promoting conscience against unwholesome acts. It reflects a mental factor preventing harmful actions by considering potential disgrace, indicating a strong sense of honour and dignity.
From: Patthana Dhamma
(1) Shame; a moral restraint that inhibits negative actions.[1] (2) A mental factor that prevents citta from engaging in harmful actions through the consideration of potential disgrace.[2]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa鈥擳he Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) A moral sense of shame or conscience about engaging in unwholesome actions.[3]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) Hiri is the feeling of shame associated with doing evil, evident in individuals who value their honour and dignity.[4]
From: A Manual of Abhidhamma
(1) Moral shame; an emotional component that prevents wrongdoing.[5]
From: Introducing Buddhist Abhidhamma
(1) Modesty, hesitation in committing wrong due to moral concerns.[6]