thiện căn
Definition
- Noun:
- Innate goodness / inherent goodness of character: The fundamental, inborn root or foundation of a person's moral and kind nature. It refers to the natural disposition toward virtue and compassion that is believed to reside within an individual.
- Root of virtue / principle of good: In philosophical and religious contexts (particularly Buddhist-influenced thought), it denotes the essential seed or basis within a person's consciousness from which all benevolent thoughts and actions can grow.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- Thiện căn ở tại lòng ta. (The root of goodness resides in our own heart.)
- Con người ấy có thiện căn, nên luôn sẵn lòng giúp đỡ người khác. (That person has innate goodness, so they are always willing to help others.)
- Tu tập là để vun bồi thiện căn của chính mình. (Cultivation is to nurture one's own root of virtue.)
Advanced Usage
- The term "thiện căn" is considered literary and is deeply rooted in Vietnamese Buddhist and classical poetic discourse. It is often used to discuss the inherent moral potential within every person, which can be cultivated or neglected.
Variants and Related Words
- Căn lành: A synonym often used in Buddhist texts, also meaning "wholesome roots" or "roots of goodness."
- Tâm thiện: A kind heart; refers more to the state of being kind rather than the inherent root of it.
- Ác căn: (Antonym) The root of evil; inherent bad nature.
Synonyms
- Innate benevolence: Inborn kindness and goodwill.
- Moral foundation: The basic natural principle of goodness within a person.
- Root of compassion: The fundamental source of empathetic and kind feelings.
Related Concepts
- "Gieo thiện căn, gặt phúc đức": An implied proverb meaning "Sow the roots of goodness, reap virtue and blessings." It highlights the cause-and-effect relationship between nurturing one's inherent goodness and receiving positive karma.