6.3 Hindu ethics and the concept of dharma

Hindu ethics and dharma are central to understanding Hindu morality and social structure. Dharma, meaning "to uphold," guides individual behavior, social order, and cosmic harmony. It operates on personal, social, and universal levels, shaping moral decisions and responsibilities.

Dharma is foundational to the four purusharthas (life goals): righteousness, wealth, pleasure, and liberation. It provides an ethical framework for pursuing these goals, balancing worldly enjoyment with spiritual progress. Dharma's principles continue to influence modern ethical challenges and decision-making.

Dharma in Hindu Philosophy

Central Concept in Hinduism

Top images from around the web for Central Concept in Hinduism

• 

  Dharma - Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Karma, Dharma and Moksha: Interpreting Indian philosophy View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Dharma - Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Dharma - Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Karma, Dharma and Moksha: Interpreting Indian philosophy View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

Top images from around the web for Central Concept in Hinduism

• 

  Dharma - Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Karma, Dharma and Moksha: Interpreting Indian philosophy View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Dharma - Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Dharma - Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Karma, Dharma and Moksha: Interpreting Indian philosophy View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

• Dharma encompasses moral duty, righteous living, and the cosmic order that governs the universe
• Derived from the Sanskrit root "dhri," meaning "to uphold" or "to sustain"
• Operates on multiple levels:
  1. Individual dharma (svadharma): specific duties and responsibilities based on age, gender, occupation, and social status
  2. Social dharma (varnashrama dharma): duties and obligations associated with the four varnas (social classes) and four ashramas (stages of life) in Hindu society
  3. Universal dharma (sanatana dharma): eternal, unchanging principles that govern the universe and moral laws that apply to all beings

Transmission and Guidance

• Hindu scriptures, such as the Dharma Shastras and the epics (Ramayana and Mahabharata), provide guidance on ethical conduct and moral dilemmas
• These texts offer examples and stories that illustrate the application of dharma in various situations
• The teachings of dharma are passed down through generations, shaping the moral fabric of Hindu society

Dharma and the Purusharthas

Four Main Goals of Human Life

• The four purusharthas are dharma (righteousness), artha (wealth), kama (pleasure), and moksha (liberation)
• Dharma is the foundational goal, providing the ethical framework for pursuing the other three goals
• Artha and kama, when pursued in accordance with dharma, contribute to a fulfilling life
• Examples of artha include earning a livelihood through honest means and using wealth for the benefit of others
• Examples of kama include enjoying the pleasures of life, such as art, music, and relationships, without causing harm to others

Moksha and Dharma

• Moksha, the ultimate goal of liberation from the cycle of birth and death, is attained through the proper observance of dharma
• Transcendence of worldly attachments is essential for achieving moksha
• The pursuit of the purusharthas is guided by dharma, ensuring a balanced and ethically grounded life
• Example: A person may pursue wealth (artha) to support their family and contribute to society, while also engaging in spiritual practices (dharma) to progress towards moksha

Dharma's Influence on Behavior

Moral Compass for Individuals

• Dharma guides actions, decisions, and relationships in accordance with righteous principles
• Observance of dharma helps maintain harmony within oneself, family, and community
• Fulfilling obligations and contributing to the well-being of society is encouraged
• Example: A person following their dharma as a teacher would strive to educate and guide students with integrity and compassion

Social Order and Stability

• Dharma provides a framework for social order, outlining duties and responsibilities based on social roles and stages of life
• Adherence to dharma is believed to lead to positive karma and spiritual progress
• Neglecting one's dharma can result in negative consequences and hinder spiritual growth
• Example: The varnashrama dharma system defines the duties of individuals based on their social class (varna) and stage of life (ashrama), promoting a structured and harmonious society

Dharma in Contemporary Ethics

Relevance in Modern Ethical Challenges

• Dharma provides a framework for moral reasoning and decision-making in addressing modern ethical issues
• Encourages considering the broader implications of actions and acting in ways that promote the well-being of all
• Principles of dharma, such as non-violence (ahimsa), truthfulness (satya), and compassion (karuna), can be applied to contemporary issues
  • Environmental conservation: practicing ahimsa towards all living beings and protecting the environment
  • Social justice: upholding satya and working towards equality and fairness for all
  • Conflict resolution: employing karuna and seeking peaceful solutions to disputes

Adaptation and Reinterpretation

• Individual dharma (svadharma) can help navigate ethical dilemmas by considering unique circumstances, abilities, and responsibilities
• Application of dharma in modern contexts may require reinterpretation and adaptation of traditional principles
• The emphasis on moral responsibility, interconnectedness of all beings, and the pursuit of a balanced and virtuous life remains relevant
• Example: A business leader applying dharma principles would prioritize ethical practices, social responsibility, and the well-being of employees and stakeholders over mere profit maximization