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Significance of Ordeal

The keyphrase "Ordeal" refers to various testing methods used historically to determine truthfulness or guilt. In Arthashastra, Ordeal involves physical tests for severe crimes such as theft or murder. Dharmashastra defines it as trials to resolve conflicting testimonies, determine legal guilt or innocence, and verify truthfulness in ambiguous situations. These procedures are considered infallible when conducted correctly and often involve tests in disputes, especially concerning deposits. Overall, Ordeal serves as a crucial tool in legal and moral judgments.1
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Synonyms: Trial, Hardship, Struggle, Torment, Difficulty, Tribulation, Challenge, Test, Affliction, Suffering

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

Hindu concept of 'Ordeal'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, Ordeal signifies various trial methods employed to ascertain truth and guilt when evidence is lacking, including rigorous physical tests and procedures outlined in Naradasmriti, aiming to resolve disputes and validate honesty.

Significance in Dharmashastra (religious law):
Dharmashastra Books

From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi

(1) Trials that are used to test the honesty or guilt of individuals in cases of disputes regarding deposits.[1] (2) Methods or processes employed to arrive at a decision in cases where evidence is ambiguous or insufficient.[2] (3) Methods or trials used to discriminate between conflicting testimonies, especially when both sides appear equal in all respects.[3] (4) A method or test used in ancient legal contexts to ascertain truth, often involving physical challenges for the accused.[4] (5) A testing situation where truthfulness is verified, believed to be infallible when conducted properly.[5]

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: Shukra Niti by Shukracharya

(1) Physical tests used to determine truthfulness or guilt in severe cases, like theft or murder.[6]

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.

Plural form: Ordeals.