When should one remain silent? Know in which situations it is better to remain silent according to the scriptures
We have often heard from our elders that we should remain calm when we get angry. Something said in anger can make you regret it later. Such things are valuable lessons that teach us the discipline of life. A disciplined person controls his reactions. He faces situations in a calm and prudent manner. Our scriptures also explain the importance of controlling behavior and taking decisions according to time and situation.
Importance of Silence in Indian Scriptures : Silence is considered a high virtue and a symbol of self-control in Indian scriptures. It not only purifies the thoughts but also helps in introspection and making prudent decisions. According to various texts and scriptures, it is advised to remain silent in many situations.
Our behavior depends on our nature and circumstances. Sometimes we express our thoughts by speaking and sometimes by remaining silent. Keeping quiet is not just a virtue, but it is a sign of prudence and self-control. It has been repeatedly stated in the scriptures that by observing silence at the right time, major disputes can be avoided and self-knowledge can be achieved.
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When necessary…keep quiet
What are those situations when it is appropriate to remain silent? There are many such stages in our life when speaking something can worsen the situation. It is better to remain silent at such times. Today we will know in which situations we are taught to remain silent.
In these situations it is better to remain silent
1. When angry : Scriptures such as the Mahabharata and the Gita state that in anger a person forgets the difference between right and wrong. Words spoken in anger can hurt others and sour relationships.
Quote: “Anger leads to attachment, attachment leads to loss of memory, and loss of memory leads to destruction of wisdom.” (Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 2, Verse 63)
2. During an argument with ignorant or foolish people : The scriptures say that arguing with a fool is futile because he may escalate the argument instead of understanding your point of view.
Quote: “Mookhen sah vivaadah na kartvaah.” (Niti Shastra)
3. When there is a need to understand the problem : To analyse any situation correctly and find a solution, one must first observe and think about the situation. Unnecessary speaking can lead to a wrong decision.
Quote: “Maunam Sarvartha Sadhanam.” (Manusmriti)
4. When there is a fear of hurting someone’s feelings : When you know that your words can hurt someone, it is better to remain silent. It is taught in Ramcharitmanas that hurting someone’s feelings with words is a sin.
5. In front of officers, scholars and elders : It is said in the scriptures that when someone more knowledgeable, intelligent or senior than you is speaking, you should politely keep quiet and listen.
6. During spiritual practice or meditation : In Yogasutra and Upanishads, silence is described as the path of practice and self-reflection. Through silence, a person attains self-knowledge and peace of mind.
7. When speaking the truth is harmful : If speaking the truth can cause extreme harm or damage to someone, it is better to keep silent. This is explained in Hinduism as “Satyam bruyat, priyam bruyat”.
8. When there is a fear of revealing secret things : It is said in Chanakya Niti that revealing secret things or plans unnecessarily can be harmful.
Quote: “Gopaniyam karyaam na prakasayet.” (Chanakya Niti)
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