Dharma

Definition

Dharma refers to the moral and ethical duties, responsibilities, and laws that govern an individual's life in Hinduism. It is considered a guiding principle that helps individuals understand their role in society, family, and the universe. This concept is deeply intertwined with ideas of righteousness, justice, and living in harmony with the cosmic order, making it essential for personal and social stability.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dharma is not a fixed concept; it can vary based on a person's age, caste, gender, and social situation.
2. The Bhagavad Gita is a key text that discusses the importance of dharma and encourages individuals to fulfill their responsibilities without attachment to the results.
3. In Hinduism, adhering to one's dharma is believed to lead to good karma, which can positively influence one's future lives.
4. Dharma also extends beyond individual responsibilities to include societal duties, promoting the idea of social justice and community welfare.
5. The violation of dharma is thought to lead to adharma, or disorder, which can result in negative consequences for both individuals and society as a whole.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of dharma influence individual behavior in Hinduism?
  • Dharma influences individual behavior by providing a framework for understanding one's responsibilities based on their role in society, family, and their stage of life. It encourages individuals to act righteously and fulfill their duties while considering the greater good. By adhering to their dharma, people contribute to social harmony and balance within the cosmic order.
• Discuss how dharma interacts with the concepts of karma and moksha within Hindu philosophy.
  • Dharma interacts closely with karma and moksha in Hindu philosophy by establishing a moral foundation for actions that determine an individual's karma. Following one's dharma leads to positive actions that accumulate good karma, which can facilitate progress towards moksha or liberation from the cycle of rebirth. Together, these concepts create a holistic approach to living a righteous life while striving for spiritual fulfillment.
• Evaluate the implications of dharma on social structures and relationships in Hindu society.
  • Dharma has significant implications for social structures and relationships in Hindu society as it defines the roles and responsibilities of individuals within different varnas. This structure reinforces social hierarchy and duties that guide interactions among various groups. However, it also raises questions about social justice and equality, particularly when traditional interpretations conflict with modern values. The challenge lies in balancing adherence to dharma while promoting progressive change within society.

Related terms

karma: Karma is the principle of cause and effect, where an individual's actions in this life will determine their fate in future lives.

moksha:

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

varnas: Varnas are the four main social classes in Hindu society—Brahmins (priests), Kshatriyas (warriors), Vaishyas (merchants), and Shudras (laborers)—each with its own specific dharma.