WHAT IS DHRAMA?

WHAT IS DHRAMA?

24-AUG-ENG 4

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

ARA-----------------------------The meaning of the word ‘Dharma’ is often associated with worship, fasting, or involvement in any tradition, but in the Vedic view, the form of Dharma is much more comprehensive, universal and scientific. In Sanskrit, ‘Dharma’ denotes that system, duty and quality, which keeps a person, society or thing in its original nature.

Every object in nature has a natural Dharma—the Dharma of fire is to burn, the Dharma of water is to cool and soothe the burning, the Dharma of air is to give life to living beings. Similarly, man also has an eternal Dharma—humanity, co-existence, justice and compassion.

Many times Dharma is considered synonymous with sect, Mat or Mazhab. But Dharma and all these words are fundamentally different. Mat, Mazhab, Religion—all these are systems, principles or traditions created by humans from time to time, whereas Dharma is eternal; It is in accordance with the laws of nature and life. No exact translation of Dharma is possible in any language, because this single word establishes coherence and balance in the universe.

The Vedas, Upanishads, Mahabharata, Manusmriti and other scriptures explain ‘Dharma’ in this way –According to Maharishi Kanad – Dharma is that which leads to the progress of a person both in the worldly and spiritual aspects. According to Bhishma Pitamah – Dharma is that which leads to the upliftment of all living beings. In Mahabharata, it has been repeatedly said ‘Ahimsa Paramo Dharmah’ (Non-violence is the greatest Dharma). According to Manusmriti, the characteristics of Dharma are – patience, forgiveness, self-restraint, sense-control, knowledge, truth, anger-control, purity and charity. Characteristics of religion—1. Universal welfare--Dharma is that which ensures welfare of the entire society, all living beings, nature and the universe. 2. Moral conduct--This is not just a method of worship or tradition, but the establishment of moral values ​​like truth, non-violence, kindness, self-restraint, asteya (not to desire that which is not my right). 3. Worth following--Dharma is that power which holds the entire world, society, every living being. It connects all human beings and nature. 4. Logic and wisdom--Logic, wisdom and research have been given priority in religion. Without logic, religion remains only a belief. 5. Humanity--Sanatan Dharma is only humanity, whose basic elements are love, truth, compassion and universal brotherhood.

Religion does not mean only worship, fasting, pilgrimage, or wearing a Tilak or a garland, nor does it mean only following a caste, society or religion. If these activities do not contribute to the welfare, well-being or conservation of nature, then they remain only rituals, not religion.

True religion is that which leads to welfare of both the soul and the world, peace in society and well-being of all. Violence, hatred, deceit, fraud, untruth and injustice can never be religion. Not making anyone unhappy by mind, speech and action and standing against injustice – this is the criterion of religion.

Religion is the natural law to maintain balance in the entire life and creation. By adopting real religion, peace, prosperity and mutual love is possible in the individual, society and the world. In the name of religion, there should be spread of generosity, peace and co-existence, not extremism, violence, fanaticism or discrimination.

‘Dharma’ is not a limited concept, but it is the fundamental principle of nature – the foundation on which the entire universe rests. The basic message of Sanatan Dharma is – “Humanity is Dharma and Dharma is the welfare of all.” This is an exemplary path, by following which man can establish coordination, harmony and peace with the entire living world and nature.