Dharma

India, known as Bharat, is a remarkable nation with a unique contribution to offer humanity. The essence of India can truly be understood by delving into its rich spiritual culture. Our nation is endowed with an extraordinary culture and heritage, which holds immense value to share with the world.

Recognizing and valuing our indigenous culture and heritage through the lens of the Vedic vision of God and the Vedic perspective on Dharma is essential. In today's society, this understanding plays a pivotal role in fostering peace and harmony.

Vedic Vision of God

The Vedas reveal that God is all-pervading, and His grace is available to everyone, regardless of caste or creed. This universal concept of God and His boundless grace serves as a unique and powerful force, uniting all of humanity in harmony.

Vedic View of Dharma – The Cosmic Ethics

In the Vedic understanding, everything in existence is not only a creation but also a manifestation of Isvara (God). Dharma, too, is a manifestation of Isvara, not merely a mandate. This perspective emphasizes that even for the sake of Isvara, one must never act against Dharma, as it is inseparable from Him.

Our scriptures extend the scope of Dharma beyond the progress of humankind, encompassing the sustenance of all life forms and the preservation of Mother Nature.

Dharma, as righteousness, is elemental and fundamental, transcending nations and eras. Virtues such as truth, love, and compassion exemplify its universal and eternal nature. Dharma is immutable, constant, living, permanent, and ever-present, guiding humanity and fostering harmony across time and space.

Dharma, the Eternal Universal Order

The Vedic vision of Isvara and the Vedic perspective on Dharma have outlined a way of life practiced by our ancestors, known as Vaidika Dharma or Sanatana Dharma, which is considered the Dharma of the Lord. Consequently, Dharma is recognized as the eternal universal order.

This principle was eloquently illustrated by the late Ekkirala Krishnamacharya, a physician, educationist, and Kulapati of the Theosophy-related World Teacher Trust in Visakhapatnam. He observed:

"There was no religion in this land, nor was any religion necessary for the Indians. The ancient Indians had a code of law for man to follow, framed in accordance with various truths working in nature. The law of existence of nature and its creation was observed in all its detail, and the law for man to follow was copied in accordance with it. This was called Dharma. The term means 'that which bears and protects.' It was made into a constitution called Bharata Dharma—a path of life commonly accepted throughout the land."

(Source: Who is a Hindu? by Dr. Koenraad Elst, p. 39)

Dharma, as articulated, serves as a guide for living in harmony with the natural order, ensuring the well-being and protection of all existence.