Significance of Social order
The concept of social order is multifaceted, encompassing structured societal frameworks that govern relationships, roles, and responsibilities across various texts. According to Arthashastra, social order is vital for individual progress and societal harmony through the fair administration of justice by a king. Vaishnavism views social order as classifications within society, including varnas and ashramas that facilitate spiritual advancement. Similarly, Purana emphasizes structured hierarchies and proper conduct to maintain community organization. Overall, social order signifies the essential structural organization that sustains societal stability and moral conduct.
Synonyms: Social structure, Societal organization, Social hierarchy, Social system, Social organization, Social stratification, Social dynamics
In Dutch: Sociale orde; In Finnish: Yhteiskunnallinen järjestys; In Spanish: Orden social; In German: Soziale Ordnung
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Social order'
In Buddhism, social order emphasizes respect and hierarchy among the Bhikkhus, particularly in communal settings like meals, ensuring harmony and proper conduct within the monastic community. This structure fosters unity and collective mindfulness.
From: Vinaya (3): The Cullavagga
(1) The concept of maintaining respect and hierarchy within the community of Bhikkhus during gatherings, especially at meals.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Social order'
Social order in Hinduism encompasses a structured society dictated by Dharma, with defined roles within a hierarchical caste system. It emphasizes community harmony through just governance, moral conduct, and adherence to societal classifications, crucial for individual and collective order.
From: Garuda Purana
(1) Categories of society, which include different classes such as Brahmanas, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras.[2] (2) The stratified categorization of society, determining acceptable marital alliances among different castes.[3] (3) A reference to the necessary conditions regarding community or caste rules for performing certain rituals, specifically for married couples.[4]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) The structured hierarchy and proper societal conduct that Rama is depicted as establishing.[5]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The structured society maintained through the king's protection, which prevents chaos and ensures morality.[6]
From: Brihaddharma Purana (abridged)
(1) The structured organization of society into different castes, which King Prithu aimed to restore in his kingdom.[7]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) The provided text discusses societal structure and the absence of it, as it emphasizes the importance of a king for maintaining order within the community.[8]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) Different divisions within society, among which the order of sannyasa is considered the highest.[9] (2) The four divisions of society which dictate the roles and responsibilities of individuals.[10]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) the classifications within society, including varnas such as brahmana, alongside spiritual divisions such as ashramas.[11]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) Refers to the divine regulation maintained by social institutions (varna and ashrama) intended to facilitate spiritual progress.[12]
From: Kamashastra Discourse (Life in Ancient India)
(1) The structured and organized society that Dharma is said to perpetuate, ensuring harmony and proper conduct among individuals.[13] (2) The organizational structure that defines relationships and responsibilities among individuals within society, closely linked to the concept of Dharma.[14]
From: Kautilya Arthashastra
(1) A societal framework that is maintained by the king's fair administration of justice, essential for overall harmony.[15]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The hierarchical structure detailed in the text, relating to the classification and roles of different castes in society.[16]
The concept of Social order in local and regional sources
Social order encompasses the framework governing societal interactions, reflecting an organized system that promotes fulfillment within a collective. It emphasizes justice, equality, and stability, often critiqued and reimagined through various philosophical and literary lenses.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Social order is the idea of a new social order that will outlaw war from our midst, which the concept of ahimsa has great significance for, and is an important goal.[17] (2) The organized and structured system in which society operates, including its customs, laws, and beliefs.[18] (3) The structure of society envisioned by Gandhi, promoting equality and the absence of exploitation.[19] (4) A concept described in Vedic socialism that denotes a societal structure based on principles of equality and justice.[20] (5) A structured society that meets the egalitarian needs, as discussed in the context of Gandhian Economics.[21]