The Nature of Dharma

Dharma primarily refers to the duties, obligations, and responsibilities that individuals have towards themselves, others, and society.

The ultimate goal of Dharma is to achieve Moksha, which is liberation from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth.

Rta refers to the cosmic order, balance, and harmony that governs the universe. Dharma is closely associated with Rta, as it is believed that following Dharma helps maintain cosmic order.

Personal desires are not considered a source of Dharma, as Dharma is based on objective principles and duties rather than individual preferences.

Ahimsa, or non-violence, is a fundamental principle of Dharma. It emphasizes the importance of refraining from causing harm to others, both physically and mentally.

Selfishness is not considered a virtue in the context of Dharma, as it contradicts the principle of selfless action and concern for others.

Karma refers to the principle of cause and effect, where one's actions have consequences. In the context of Dharma, it is believed that performing righteous actions (Dharma) leads to positive outcomes, while unrighteous actions (Adharma) lead to negative consequences.

Svabhava, or personal nature, is not considered a type of Dharma, as Dharma is based on objective principles and duties rather than individual inclinations.

Dharma-Yuddha refers to the concept of righteous war in ancient Indian thought. It emphasizes the importance of fighting only when necessary and for just causes, while adhering to ethical principles during warfare.

Expediency, or acting based on immediate convenience or self-interest, is not considered a component of Dharma, as Dharma is based on objective principles and duties rather than personal advantage.

Dharma-niti refers to the concept of righteous governance in ancient Indian political thought. It emphasizes the importance of rulers adhering to Dharma and governing in a just and ethical manner.

Personal experience is not considered a source of Dharma in ancient Indian thought, as Dharma is based on objective principles and duties rather than individual experiences.

Dharma-shastra refers to the body of religious law in ancient India. It encompasses a wide range of topics, including marriage, inheritance, property rights, and criminal offenses, and is based on the principles of Dharma.

Greed is not considered a virtue in the context of Dharma, as it contradicts the principle of selfless action and concern for others.

Dharma-artha refers to the concept of righteous wealth in ancient Indian economic thought. It emphasizes the importance of acquiring wealth through ethical means and using it for the benefit of society.