Significance of Truth-speaking
Truth-speaking is a significant concept across various philosophies and religions, each attributing unique meanings and significance to it. In Hinduism, it involves devotion in rituals, while Jainism views it as essential for spiritual growth. Vaishnavism emphasizes expressing truth, potentially leading to labels of atheism. Puranic texts describe Narada’s character as embodying honesty, whereas Vedanta stresses the virtue of honest communication and spiritual progress. Similarly, Theravada underscores integrity in speech, with historical contexts reflecting the commitment to accurate expression of reality.
Synonyms: Veracity, Honesty, Sincerity, Integrity, Straightforwardness, Frankness, Authenticity, Openness, Genuineness, Truthfulness
In Dutch: De waarheid spreken; In Finnish: Totuuden puhuminen; In Spanish: Decir la verdad; In German: Die Wahrheit sagen; In Malay: Bercakap benar; In German: Wahrheit sprechen; In Swedish: Sanningstalande; In French: Dire la vérité
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Truth-speaking'
Truth-speaking in Buddhism emphasizes honesty and integrity in communication, requiring candidates to truthfully respond during ordination and highlighting the serious consequences of failing to convey information accurately.
From: Vinaya Pitaka (4): Parivara
(1) Describes the act of conveying information honestly, which can lead to serious offences if not adhered to.[1]
From: Vinaya (2): The Mahavagga
(1) The expectation that candidates will answer questions honestly during the ordination process.[2]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) A vow involving honesty and integrity in one's words, signifying the value of truthfulness.[3]
Hindu concept of 'Truth-speaking'
Truth-speaking in Hinduism emphasizes a commitment to honesty, spiritual progress, and integrity, as exemplified by Narada, and is highlighted as a key virtue through rituals, promoting sincere communication based on truth.
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) The act of communicating truthfully and sincerely.[4] (2) The act of communicating honestly and accurately, emphasizing the importance of truth.[5]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) The practice of speaking the truth, highlighted by Satyavachas as a key virtue.[6]
From: Mundaka Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) The commitment to honesty as a virtue essential for spiritual progress.[7]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) A description of Narada's character, denoting his honesty and integrity in his communications.[8]
From: Gobhila-grihya-sutra
(1) The virtue of striving to speak the truth, emphasized as an important practice on designated ritual days.[9]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) A quality attributed to those who faithfully perform the rituals and maintain devotion in their sacrifices.[10]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The act of expressing what is true, which can lead to being labeled as an atheist in this context.[11]
Jain concept of 'Truth-speaking'
In Jainism, Truth-speaking represents a fundamental principle of honesty and clear communication, essential for spiritual growth and the transcendence of material attachments. It emphasizes the importance of integrity in one's expressions for spiritual enlightenment.
From: Acaranga-sutra
(1) A principle that embodies honesty and clarity of expression, crucial for achieving spiritual advancement and overcoming worldly attachments.[12]
The concept of Truth-speaking in local and regional sources
Truth-speaking emphasizes the cow's dedication to honesty, encouraging trust from the tiger. It focuses on conveying reality accurately rather than just adhering to promises, highlighting the importance of genuine communication in relationships.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The cow's commitment to truth, which she asserts as a reason for the tiger to trust her and believe her words.[13] (2) The practice of expressing reality accurately, as opposed to merely keeping promises or commitments.[14]