Evolution of �dharma� through the ages
Ritus
The great rishis of India identified fourfold objectives of life. These are Dharma (duties and obligations), Artha (material well-being); Kaama (pleasure) and Moksha (liberation). The pursuit of these objectives help an individual to fulfil lifes purpose.
The concept of dharma, however, evolved over time. It was generally specific to ones caste and this concept is called sva-dharma (caste duty). Gradually, the meaning of dharma changed and acquired a universal appeal.
It was about the cultivation of an ethical self, with character traits like being truthful, not harming others, not getting angry, to name a few. These traits or attitudes determine ones character and is important in maintaining social harmony. This concept of dharma is called sadharan dharma the duty of conscience.
When the pursuit of the fulfilment of artha (material well-being) and kaama (pleasure) is based on dharma, or the dictates of the conscince, the social order is mainatianed. It allows for an odered existence and gives coherence to ones desires. Dharma or righteous behaviour is upheld for various reasons. For some people it is the standard religious one that good actions assure a place in heaven, the infinite hereafter; for some it is practised with the law of Karma in mind that is, with intended goal. And then, there are those who, like Yudhishtra, do not follow dharma for any reward but because they think that dharma is its own reward.
Such people may exist in minority but for them the social benefits of moral actions are reason enough to follow dharma. According to Yudhishtra, if people do not cooperate or trust each other, the social order will collapse. For him, non-violence (Ahimsa) and Satya (truthfulness) are, in fact, rules for cooperation and ensure the moral well-being of society.
Indian Express
