Ethics and morality are pivotal elements in ancient Indian texts. However, the moral and ethical guidelines of Hindu dharma are completely different from those of other religions. Of course, universally accepted virtues such as integrity, compassion, and purity are given the highest position in Sanatana dharma. However, there are no rigid and stringent moral injunctions that always have to be followed to the letter.
The morality of Hinduism states that the primary intent or motive behind an action is the factor that decides whether the action is good or bad. The dharma refrains from providing a standardized definition of morality. This is something that tends to keep changing from one individual to another. In the same way, the exact situation also determines the right course of action.
Ethical frameworks in the Indian knowledge system
The ethical frameworks in the Indian knowledge system include four significant concepts.
- Dharma: “Dharma” stresses the importance of leading life as per various moral and ethical norms. The dharma of Hinduism covers different social and religious responsibilities of individuals, as well. Adherence to these principles and duties is indispensable to maintain orderliness and peace in society.
- Artha: The term “artha” encompasses the aspect of earning wealth to make sure that an individual is self-sufficient. Here, things like building a successful career and keeping oneself financially secure are pivotal, too. While speaking of the economic growth of society and the country, artha is a crucial element.
- Kama: Fulfillment of sensual desires and pursuit of the varied pleasures of life come under the purview of “kama.” In this context, familial bonds and affection between family members are also paramount.
- Moksha: We now come to the most relevant of all the four concepts – “Moksha.” Moksha refers to attaining redemption from the recurrent cycles of “birth-life-death-rebirth.” This is the ultimate form of liberation for a human being.
At this point, a few points must be mentioned. Or else, those major concepts of Sanatana dharma can be misunderstood.
- Ancient texts categorically state that dharma is the most important concept in relation to artha and kama. Only dharmik precepts help people distinguish between the right and the wrong.
- The scriptures clearly emphasize the importance of staying aligned with the path of dharma while pursuing “artha” and “kama.”
Major concepts of Sanatana dharma have been mentioned in many good ancient books. Unfortunately, mischievous elements from colonial and invader ruled times have distorted the framework. Sadly, such frameworks are still active in India. By fabricating a pseudo issue of caste which is a Portuguese and European framework and taking selective passages from Manusmrithi which was for society 5000 or 10000 years old.
There is another class of ethics which cultivates common sense and wisdom which is called as Neeti. By using metaphors, proverbs and stories many times with animals playing main characters – common sense and wisdom was cultivated in entire society.
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