Virtues Promoted By Dharma - Sabhyata

By Author: Chaitanya Kumari
Total Articles: 228
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Among the many noble virtues Hindu Dharma encourages, we also have “sabhyata.” “Sabhyata” can be translated into “politeness.” It can be said that politeness is the cornerstone for many other virtues. It is only when an individual adopts “sabhyata” that they will be in a position to inculcate other dharmic virtues. Now, it will only be appropriate to elaborate on the primary points of this subject at hand.

• The significance of politeness can never be overstated when it comes to furthering harmonious relationships between people. When there are cordial and amicable interactions among individuals, it will contribute to establishing a peaceful society.
• An individual who prioritizes “sabhyata” is usually more considerate and empathetic towards others.
• While speaking about politeness in Hindu Dharma, a mention has to be made of “namaste.” It is a gesture that is synonymous with politeness, as per the Sanatana Dharma.
• While conveying “namaste,” both palms are brought together, and one bows down a little. It is a display of respect towards others. There is a deeper ...
... meaning for this gesture, as well. A primary tenet of Hindu Dharma is that there is divinity in all individuals. Therefore, “namaste” is expressing reverence to the divine that is present in the other person/s.
• “Sabhyata,” according to Hinduism, is considered incomplete if it does not include the key aspect of respecting elders. One has to obey the words of elders in a respectful way. Our elders are people who are more experienced and normally more knowledgeable than we are. Hence, when they tell us to do something, there is some genuine purpose.
• Politeness makes integrating other virtues, such as compassion and honesty, into our lives easier. These are the virtues that help us to achieve success in life, and that too without deviating from the precepts of Dharma. We can lead fulfilling lives.
• Also, it has to be highlighted that when a person is polite towards others, they generally also develop humility. And it is this humility that is seen in an individual who is cultured and educated.
• The scope of “sabhyata” in Hinduism is much wider than what many people think. It is not enough if one interacts with others in a soft and amicable way. It’s equally salient that they avoid things like backbiting and gossiping.
• We should never forget that even if we have to advise others regarding correcting some unwanted trait in them, we must not become judgmental. Utmost care has to be exercised so that the concerned point is conveyed without hurting their feelings. This is an integral element of “sabhyata,” as described in Sanatana Dharma.
• Politeness is a thing to which an individual has to be thoroughly committed if they are serious about attaining spiritual growth. Without politeness, a person cannot develop the patience and dedication that are required to follow spiritual disciplines.

Sabhyata in Hinduism - A Few Guidelines
Let’s now take a glance at a few guidelines related to “sabhyata” in Hinduism.
• Make it a point to use only your right hand while having food.
• Never forget to leave your footwear outside before entering a house.
• If your foot happens to touch the feet of someone, convey your apologies immediately.
• “Handshake” form of greeting between opposite genders is still fairly uncommon. So, just ensure that you greet in this way only when the other person is not uncomfortable.

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