Dharma

Definition

Dharma is a key concept in Indian philosophy and religions, particularly in Hinduism, that refers to the moral law combined with spiritual discipline that guides one's life. It encompasses duties, rights, laws, conduct, virtues, and the right way of living. Dharma varies according to one's age, caste, gender, and occupation, emphasizing the importance of following one's own path and responsibilities in life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dharma is often associated with the concepts of righteousness and ethical conduct, serving as a guiding principle for behavior and decision-making.
2. In Hinduism, dharma can change throughout a person's life as they move through different stages or fulfill various roles and responsibilities.
3. The Bhagavad Gita illustrates the importance of dharma through the character Arjuna, who faces a moral dilemma on the battlefield about his duty as a warrior.
4. Dharma is not just limited to individual conduct; it also extends to social duties and responsibilities toward family and society.
5. In Eastern philosophy, dharma emphasizes the interconnectedness of all beings, suggesting that fulfilling one's own dharma contributes to universal harmony.

Review Questions

• How does dharma influence an individual's actions and choices in life?
  • Dharma serves as a moral compass that guides individuals in making ethical decisions aligned with their duties and responsibilities. It influences actions by providing a framework for what is considered right or wrong based on one's role in society, age, and personal circumstances. For instance, a person's dharma may require them to prioritize family obligations or social responsibilities over personal desires.
• Discuss how the concept of dharma is portrayed in the Bhagavad Gita and its significance for understanding one's duty.
  • In the Bhagavad Gita, dharma is central to the narrative as Arjuna grapples with his duty as a warrior facing his own relatives on the battlefield. His internal conflict highlights the importance of understanding one's responsibilities in relation to ethical considerations. The Gita teaches that fulfilling one's dharma is crucial for maintaining order and justice in society, ultimately leading to spiritual growth and self-realization.
• Evaluate how the understanding of dharma in Eastern philosophy contributes to the idea of social harmony and individual fulfillment.
  • In Eastern philosophy, dharma emphasizes the balance between individual needs and social responsibilities. This perspective fosters an understanding that when individuals align their actions with their duties, it leads to greater harmony within society. By fulfilling one's own dharma while considering its impact on others, individuals contribute to a collective well-being that enhances both personal fulfillment and social stability. This interconnected approach reflects a holistic view of existence where personal growth cannot be separated from communal responsibility.

Related terms

Karma:

The law of cause and effect that governs an individual's actions, influencing future experiences and determining their fate in this life and beyond.

Moksha:

The ultimate goal of life in Hinduism, representing liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth (samsara) and union with the divine.

Varna:

The four major social classes in Hindu society: Brahmins (priests), Kshatriyas (warriors), Vaishyas (traders), and Shudras (laborers), which each have specific duties related to dharma.