Righteousness in the context of the Yajnavalkya Smriti encompasses a comprehensive array of virtues that collectively define moral and ethical conduct. Yajnavalkya Smriti, an ancient Hindu text, outlines these qualities as integral to the concept of righteousness:
Truth (Satya): Truth is the foundation of righteousness. It
entails being honest and truthful in one’s speech and actions. Upholding the
truth is considered a fundamental duty, as it fosters trust and integrity in
society.
Honesty (Arjava): Honesty involves straightforwardness and
sincerity. It is about being genuine and transparent in dealings with others,
avoiding deceit and fraud. This virtue ensures fairness and justice in personal
and professional relationships.
Mildness (Mardava): Mildness or gentleness reflects a
compassionate and kind approach towards others. It is the quality of being
considerate and not causing harm or distress through harsh words or actions.
Mildness promotes harmony and peaceful coexistence.
Modesty (Dama): Modesty is characterized by humility and a
sense of propriety. It involves recognizing one’s limitations and avoiding
arrogance and pride. Modesty helps in maintaining a balanced perspective and
fosters respect for others.
Purity (Shaucha): Purity signifies cleanliness and purity of
mind, body, and soul. It encompasses physical cleanliness as well as moral
purity, involving righteous thoughts and actions. Purity is essential for
spiritual growth and moral clarity.
Wisdom (Prajna): Wisdom is the ability to discern right from
wrong and make sound judgments. It involves knowledge, insight, and the
application of experience in making ethical decisions. Wisdom guides
individuals towards righteous living.
Firmness (Dhriti): Firmness refers to perseverance and
steadfastness in one’s principles and duties. It is the strength to remain
committed to righteousness even in the face of challenges and temptations.
Firmness ensures consistency and reliability in ethical conduct.
Self-control (Dama): Self-control is the ability to regulate
one’s desires, emotions, and impulses. It involves discipline and restraint,
preventing actions that could lead to moral compromise. Self-control is crucial
for maintaining ethical behavior.
The Restraint of the Senses (Indriya Nigraha): Restraint of
the senses means controlling the sensory organs to avoid indulgence in harmful
pleasures. It is about managing desires that can lead to moral degradation.
This restraint helps in achieving mental and spiritual purity.
Learning (Vidya): Learning, in this context, is not just the
acquisition of knowledge but also the understanding and internalization of
moral and ethical principles. It is the continuous pursuit of wisdom and truth
through study and reflection. Learning broadens one’s perspective and enhances
moral insight.
Wisdom as Vidya and Viveka
Wisdom is Viveka—the sharp spiritual discernment used to distinguish between the Atman (the eternal Self) and Maya (the transient illusion), and between Shreya (the path of ultimate good) and Preya (the path of immediate pleasure). It is the fruit of Vidya (higher knowledge) applied through a mind steadied by self-discipline.
Discernment through Dharma: True wisdom is the ability to align one’s actions with Dharma, ensuring that every choice upholds the cosmic and moral order.
Insight into Oneness: It involves the realization that the same divinity resides in all beings, leading to a life of compassion and non-violence (Ahimsa).
Detached Action: Wisdom is the application of experience through Nishkama Karma—acting righteously because it is right, without being enslaved by the fruits of those actions.
Path to Liberation: Ultimately, wisdom is the light that clears the darkness of Ajñana (ignorance), guiding the seeker toward Moksha (liberation) and an abiding peace in the Truth.
"As a well-stoked fire reduces fuel to ashes, so does the fire of self-knowledge (wisdom) reduce all karma to ashes." — Bhagavad Gita 4.37
These virtues, as detailed in the Yajnavalkya Smriti, form a holistic framework for righteous living. They emphasize the importance of moral integrity, ethical behavior, and spiritual purity. By embodying these qualities, individuals can contribute to a just and harmonious society.