Why is dharma so important?

The Dharma Dilemna

One of the most important ideas in Hinduism is that, as

well as following the Sanatana dharma, everyone

should follow the rules of their own class and life-

stage, for the sake of themselves and for the sake

of society.

How is dharma connected to Moksha?

• Dharma has an effect on your karma and leads you towards higher rebirths and finally Moksha

• Dharma also ensures society runs smoothly

• Individual religious duty becomes the cause of personal and universal happiness

The world’s longest poem Mahabarata has a section called ‘Bhagavad Gita’ or ‘Song of the Lord’ which

illustrates the importance of the idea of dharma.

Arjuna is a Kshatriya warrior. He is tricked out of his kingdom by

his relatives. He stands opposite them on a

battlefield.

Arjuna Krishna

Krishna is in disguise as

Arjuna’s charioteer – he is

a God

Arjuna asks ‘Should I fight? These are my relatives, is it

right I fight against them?’

What do you think the God Krishna’s answer should be?

Krishna replies ‘If there is more joy in doing one’s own duty

badly than there is in doing another man’s well’

What do you think this means?

Do you agree? Would a Hindu agree?

Krishna encourages Arjuna to fulfil his duty as a Kshatriya and right the injustice

with military force.

Copy down this quote

“ There is more joy in doing one’s own duty badly than there is in doing

another man’s well”

Use this quote and the idea of varna-ashrama-dharma to explain why

dharma is important to an individual and society

Bramacharyia Santana dharma

Grihasta Varna

Vanaprashta Brahmin

Sanyasia Kshatriya

Dalits Vaishyas

Karma Shudras

Ashramas Moksha

Word check – do you know what these Hindu words mean?