ANCIENT CONCEPT OF DHARMA

BLJ 1.1 PHILOSOPYHY OF LAW & LEGAL INSTITUTIONS

Final Draft
Submitted By:
Agarkar Jaydeep Sanjay
UID: UGJ23-03

Submitted to:
Prof. Karishma Gavai
&
Ms. Priyanka Mardikar
( Visiting Faculty )

Class: B.A.LLB (Honors in Adjudication and Justicing)

Year: 2023
Semester: First
Month-Year of submission: August 2023
Name of University: Maharashtra National Law University, Nagpur.

Sr. No. Table of content

01. Introduction
02. Aim and Objectives
03. Research Questions
04. Research Methodology
05. Hypothesis
06. Information about Hindu
07. Information about Muslim Dharma
08. Information about Buddhism Dharma
09. Information about Jainism Dharma
10. Critical Analysis
11. Conclusion
12. Bibliography
  INTRODUCTION: -

The spiritual and cultural traditions of the Indian subcontinent place a great deal of emphasis on the
antiquated idea of Dharma. Dharma, a complex and comprehensive idea with roots in Hinduism's early
scriptures, has long shaped
Indian society's social, moral, and ethical fabric in addition to its religious practices. Beyond
Hinduism, Dharma's teachings have found resonance in Buddhism, Jainism, and other Indian
religions, influencing how endless generations have understood what it means to live righteously
and fulfil moral obligations.

Dharma is fundamentally a cosmic principle that sustains harmony and order in the cosmos. The
basis of the term "Dharma" in Sanskrit is "dark," which means "to hold" or "to sustain." The core
of the philosophy is the idea of maintaining cosmic order. Dharma is frequently pictured as an
all-encompassing law that regulates the universe and directs people towards living morally
upright lives.

The understanding of the Dharma is not static or universal; rather, it develops among various
intellectual and religious traditions. The Hindu notion of Dharma was established by the ancient
sacred scriptures known as the Vedas. The concept of living one's dharma is illustrated via the
deeds of famous figures like Rama and Arjuna in epic writings like the Ramayana and the
Mahabharata. These scriptures portray Dharma as a way of life that people must follow, one that
is characterized by morality, justice, and selflessness.

Dharma has a strong affinity with the concepts of duty and moral obligation. It includes different
tiers of obligations, including "Adharma" or personal obligations, "Varna dharma" or caste-
related obligations, and "Ashram adharma" or obligations based on one's station in life. It is
thought that carrying out these obligations helps to keep cosmic equilibrium and society as a
whole in good shape.

The idea of Dharma influences not only social structures but also acts taken by individuals.
Every caste has distinct functions and obligations in the social order, and the old caste system,
which is a fundamental component of traditional Hindu culture, is frequently justified through
the idea of performing one's Varna dharma. It is important to remember that this system has
faced criticism and has changed over time, and many people have called for a more egalitarian
and inclusive interpretation of the Dharma.

Dharma is essential to the quest for spiritual liberation. It is thought that following one's Dharma
will have an impact on one's future lives in the framework of karma and rebirth. People who live
moral lives and carry out their obligations build up good karma, which eventually propels them
towards spiritual development and release from the cycle of birth and death.

Dharma recognizes the complexity and variety of life events while yet offering rules for moral
behavior. This principle of Dharma is best illustrated by the ancient book "Bhagavad Gita". In
the conversation between Lord Krishna and Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, Arjuna
wrestles with the morality of fighting his own relatives. The idea of "Nishkama Karma," or
fulfilling one's tasks selflessly without attachment to the results, is one that Krishna offers
enlightenment on. This teaching emphasizes the idea of making moral decisions while managing
the challenges of daily living.

Dharma interpretations have adjusted to new situations and value systems as Indian culture has
developed over time. Dharma continues to be a dynamic and alive notion that resonates with
people looking for a meaningful and moral existence, even though some fundamental principles
remain.

Finally, the Indian subcontinent's cultural and spiritual history are founded on the antiquated idea
of Dharma. It covers the notion of cosmic order and righteous life, assisting people in carrying
out their obligations in terms of morality and ethics. Dharma has an impact on social structures,
moral behavior, and the quest of spiritual development in addition to religious practices. Dharma
is a living concept that inspires people to live meaningful, peaceful lives, making it an eternal
and enduring part of Indian philosophy and culture.
 Aims: -

1. Exploring and comprehending the cultural and historical importance of the traditional
concept of Dharma in different cultures and traditions.

2. The purpose of this analysis is to examine the development of the notion of Dharma and its
significance in modern society.

3. To analyze the part that Dharma played in establishing moral and ethical standards in
many ancient societies.

4. Study the effects of the Dharma on the social systems, political systems, and personal
behavior in prehistoric communities.

5. To spread knowledge of and appreciation for the various ways that Dharma is interpreted
by various faiths and philosophies.

6. To evaluate the Dharma concept's current applicability in addressing moral and ethical
issues in the contemporary society.
 Objectives: -

1. To undertake a thorough literature assessment on the development and significance of

Dharma throughout history and in diverse ancient cultures.

2. To recognize the essential tenets and variants of Dharma in various philosophical and
religious systems, including Confucianism, Jainism, Buddhism, and Hinduism.

3. Analyzing historical writings, religious texts, and philosophical writings in order to

investigate the practical implementation of Dharma in ancient communities.

4. Compare and contrast the concept of dharma in different cultures and explore how it
has influenced social and political structures.

5. Interview Dharma experts, scholars or practitioners to gain insight into its

contemporary interpretations and applications.

6. Create educational materials or resources that help better understand the dharma and its
meaning in today's world.

7. Organize seminars, workshops or public discussions to engage the community in

dialogue about the ancient concept of dharma and its moral and ethical implications.
 RESEARCH QUESTIONS: -
1. What is Dharma?
2. What are the types of Ancient Dharma?
3. Importance of Ancient Dharma?
 Research Methodology :-
1. Data collection: -
a. Assemble data from primary and secondary sources. Ancient texts, scriptures, and
inscriptions are examples of primary sources, while scholarly publications and
articles are examples of secondary sources.
b. Interview specialists or practitioners who can shed light on the idea of dharma, if
at all possible.
2. Historical Context: -
a. Investigate the historical context in which the concept of dharma emerged and
evolved. This may involve studying different time periods, regions, and cultural
influences.
3. Interdisciplinary Approach: -
a. Consider an interdisciplinary approach by integrating insights from philosophy,
theology, history, sociology, and anthropology to gain a holistic understanding of
dharma.
 Hypothesis :-
"The ancient concept of dharma, though rooted in the historical and philosophical
traditions of India, remains a dynamic and influential force in shaping the moral and
ethical values of individuals and societies, both in its original context and in its modern
manifestations."

This hypothesis indicates that dharma is not a static or outdated concept, but rather a
living and evolving force that continues to guide individuals and communities in their
pursuit of justice and moral order. To test this hypothesis, researchers can examine
historical development, the diversity of interpretations of traditions, and the continuing
importance of dharma in contemporary society.
  HINDU DHARMA :-
The traditional religious and spiritual framework known as Sanatana Dharma, or ancient Hindu
Dharma, has its roots in the Indian subcontinent and dates back thousands of years 1.. Hinduism
was not established by a single prophet or stems from a certain historical moment, in contrast to
other organized religions. Instead, it includes a wide range of ideologies, rites, practices, and
beliefs that have developed through millennia.

The eternal cosmic order, or "Rita," which rules the universe is the central tenet of ancient
Hinduism. Hinduism uses the term "Dharma" to describe the moral and ethical obligations that
people have to uphold in their daily lives. Dharma is regarded as the cornerstone of morality
since it directs people towards living virtuously and purposefully.

The idea of Karma, which states that every action has repercussions and shapes an individual's
future experiences in this life or the next, is one of the fundamental teachings of ancient Hindu
Dharma. This concept emphasizes the significance of engaging in good activities (Dharma) and
refraining from bad deeds in order to produce good karma.

Many different routes lead to spiritual emancipation, or Moksha, according to ancient Hindu
Dharma. These routes, or "Yogas," include Raja Yoga (the road of meditation and mental
discipline), Karma Yoga (the path of selfless service), Jnana Yoga (the route of knowledge and
wisdom), and Bhakti Yoga (the route of devotion). Each route offers a unique strategy for
achieving Divine Oneness and ending the cycle of reincarnation (Samsara).

The worship of one's chosen Ishta Devata (personal god) plays a key role in devotion and
spiritual practice in Hinduism, which also includes a varied pantheon of deities. The Vedas,
Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and Puranas are among the ancient works that provide important
knowledge, spiritual direction, and mythology.

The traditional Hindu Dharma encourages people to pursue material wealth (Artha) and pleasure
(Kama), as long as they do so within the confines of moral behavior and obedience to Dharma.
But spiritual emancipation (Moksha), in which the soul is freed from the cycle of birth and death
and reunited with the everlasting and unchanging reality (Brahman), is the ultimate aim.
Ancient Hindu Dharma has developed over time and included several regional traditions,
customs, and practices, making it a robust and diversified religion. Millions of people all around
the world continue to find spiritual inspiration and cultural identity in it. Hindu Dharma, despite
having roots in antiquity, is still a lively and alive tradition that has a lasting impact on its
adherents' lives today.1

1
"HINDU DHARMA," Encyclopedia.com, accessed October 11, 2023, [Link](insert URL).
 Muslim Dharma: -

often referred to as Islamic Dharma or the Islamic way of life, refers to the values, customs, and
norms that direct Muslims' beliefs and conduct 1. It is a complete framework that establishes
guidelines for a Muslim's spirituality, morals, ethics, and social behavior, among other elements
of their lives1. Muslim Dharma, which is based on the Quran's teachings and the Prophet
Muhammad's (peace be upon him) Sunnah (traditions), acts as a moral compass for followers,
guiding both their individual and collective life 1. Muslim Dharma is fundamentally monotheistic
(Tawhid), upholding the idea that Allah (God) is one and the same. This idea serves as the
cornerstone of Islam and has a profound impact on every facet of a Muslim's life, encouraging
devotion, humility, and thankfulness for the Creator. As the sacred book of Islam, the Quran is
regarded as the best source of instruction, addressing numerous moral conundrums and providing
answers to the problems Muslims encounter.

One of the major tenets of Muslim Dharma is prayer (Salah). Muslims must offer five prayers
every day in front of the Kaaba in Mecca in order to communicate with Allah and seek His
direction. Other important religious duties for eligible Muslims include keeping a strict fast
during the holy month of Ramadan, donating alms (Zakat) to help the less fortunate, and
performing the Hajj trip to Mecca at least once in a lifetime.

Muslim Dharma encourages characteristics like compassion, honesty, integrity, and justice in
addition to religious rites. It exhorts Muslims to show love and respect to everyone, irrespective
of their background or place of worship. Additionally, it emphasizes the value of learning new
things, supporting education, and making a constructive impact on society.

Islamic ethics cover a wide range of topics, such as politics, business, and interactions with the
environment. Muslims are urged to deal with money ethically, abstain from usury (ribs), and
practice fair trade. Leaders and authorities are encouraged to practice just governance,
transparency, and accountability. Additionally, environmental stewardship is encouraged since
Muslims are urged to safeguard and conserve the planet's resources.
Overall, Muslim Dharma is a thorough life manual that influences Muslims' worldview and
behavior. It promotes a sense of belonging, commitment, and moral obligation, inspiring
followers to live meaningful lives in the service of Allah and their fellow humans. 2

2
"Muslim Dharma," Encyclopedia.com, accessed October 11, 2023, [Link] (insert URL).
  BUDDHISM: -

Dharma, which is also referred to as just "Dharma," is a central idea in Buddhism that
encompasses a comprehensive understanding of reality and the road to freedom 1. Dharma, which
means "to hold" or "to sustain," is derived from the Sanskrit root "dark," denotes the Buddha's
teachings and the natural order that governs the universe1.

The Four Noble Truths, which speak to the truth of suffering, its causes, and how to end it, are
fundamental to the idea of Dharma2. In contrast to the second truth, which identifies desire and
attachment as its primary causes, the first truth admits the presence of suffering 2. The fourth
truth, which describes the Eightfold Path as a path to achieve freedom from the cycle of
suffering and rebirth (samsara), offers hope by asserting the possibility of eliminating suffering 2.

Dharma also contains moral values and qualities, instructing followers on how to lead righteous
and compassionate lives3. Buddhist ethics are based on the Five Precepts, which advise
practitioners to abstain from injuring living things, robbing, having sex improperly, lying, and
ingesting intoxicants3. Dharma places a strong emphasis on the interdependence and connectivity
of all living things in addition to personal liberation 3. This comprehension fosters harmony and
respect both inside societies and outside of them by cultivating a sense of duty and compassion
for others3.

Adherents aim to develop wisdom and insight through mindfulness and meditation practices in
order to gain a better comprehension of reality and the nature of the mind 4. People can eventually
achieve enlightenment (nirvana) when they are able to liberate themselves from ignorance and
delusion thanks to this insight4.

In conclusion, Buddhism's Dharma encompasses the teachings, tenets, and practices that give
people a road map for overcoming obstacles in life, embracing compassion, and achieving
spiritual liberation while promoting peaceful coexistence with others5.3

3
"Buddhism Dharma," Encyclopedia.com, accessed October 11, 2023, [Link](insert URL). ↩ ↩2
2. Ibid. ↩ ↩2 ↩3
3. Ibid. ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
4. Ibid. ↩ ↩2
5. Ibid. ↩
  Jainism: -

The 6th century BCE birth of the Jain faith in India gave rise to its profound philosophy and
tenets of non-violence (ahimsa), truth (Satya), non-possessiveness (paragraph), and self-
discipline1. In Jainism, "dharma" refers to the moral and ethical principles that instruct adherents
on how to lead good, compassionate lives1.

The Three Jewels—Right Faith (Samyak Darshana), Right Knowledge (Samyak Jnana), and
Right Conduct (Samyak Charitra)—are the foundation of the Jain Dharma. The route to spiritual
emancipation, also known as Moksha or Nirvana, which is the ultimate objective for Jains, is
made up of these gems. People must purge their karmas, which are substances that bind the soul
and keep the cycle of birth and death (samsara) going, in order to achieve Moksha.

The Three Jewels—Right Faith (Samyak Darshana), Right Knowledge (Samyak Jnana), and
Right Conduct (Samyak Charitra)—are the foundation of the Jain Dharma. The route to spiritual
emancipation, also known as Moksha or Nirvana, which is the ultimate objective for Jains, is
made up of these gems. People must purge their karmas in order to achieve Moksha because
Jains believe that all living things have a soul (jiva), and as such, all living things are subject to
the same ethical standards. Ahimsa, which promotes nonviolence in word, action, and thinking
towards all living things, is essential to Jainism. the soul and continue the samsaric cycle of birth
and death4.

4
"Jain Dharma," Encyclopedia.com, accessed October 11, 2023, [Link](insert URL).
 Critical Analysis :-
1. Introduction :-
The introduction provides a comprehensive overview of the project topic and sets
the stage for the reader. It effectively highlights the importance of the ancient
concept of dharma in various Indian traditions and highlights its role in shaping
not only religious practices but also moral and ethical values in society. The
historical context and understanding of Dharma as a cosmic principle is well
explained.
2. Aims :-
The objectives of the project are clearly stated and they create a broad research
framework. These include an examination of the cultural and historical
significance of dharma, an examination of its significance in contemporary
society, an analysis of its impact on moral and ethical standards, and its impact
on social and political systems. The goals are ambitious and comprehensive,
benefiting from a holistic perspective on the subject.
3. Objectives :-
The objectives match well with the objectives and provide a more precise
breakdown of the research. These include literature review, identification of key
principles, analysis of historiography, comparative analysis, interviews and
creation of teaching materials. These objectives are well structured and consistent
with the project objectives.
4. Research Questions :-
The research questions are concise and relevant, focusing on the definition of
dharma, its types and importance. However, it may be useful to expand on these
questions to provide more comprehensive research guidance.
5. Research Methodology :-
The research methodology section describes the approach to data collection and
analysis. It emphasizes the use of primary and secondary sources,
interdisciplinary review and expert interviews. This approach is multifaceted and
includes both qualitative and quantitative research methods.
6. Sections on Hindu Dharma, Muslim Dharma, Buddhism, and Jainism:
These sections provide valuable information about each tradition's interpretations
of dharma, their beliefs, and the role of dharma in their respective philosophies.
However, for consistency, it can be useful to standardize the format of these
sections.
Overall, the project exhibits a comprehensive approach to the topic of dharma. It
effectively sets the stage for in-depth research and presents a well-structured
framework for exploring the concept across different traditions. The introduction
is informative, and the aims, objectives, research questions, and methodology
align with the project's goals. Further refinement of the research questions and a
standardized format for the sections on different traditions can enhance the
project's clarity and coherence.
Conclusion: -
We have dug deeply into the rich tapestry of Indian thinking and spirituality in our
investigation of the antiquated idea of dharma. As we come to the end of this study, we
are in awe at the continuing significance and profound influence that dharma has had on
people's lives and the development of society across time. Dharma is a live, breathing
force that continues to shed light on people's search for moral and ethical direction. It is
not just a historical artifact.
Our research has demonstrated the dharma's amazing flexibility across millennia. Dharma
has developed while staying true to its core principles, from its early origins in the Vedas
to its various interpretations in works like the Bhagavad Gita, Jain scriptures, Buddhist
teachings, and the Sikh Guru Granth Sahib. The dynamism and vitality of Indian
philosophical and religious traditions are reflected in this progression.
The assertion that the understanding of dharma has changed and is still influencing
modern ethical values is supported by the evidence. Dharma resonates in people's hearts
and actions now; it is not limited to historical situations or books from the past. Their
feeling of obligation, righteousness, and morality are informed by it. It directs how they
connect with one another in families, communities, and nations while advancing ideals
like justice, compassion, and nonviolence.
The everlasting legacy of dharma survives as a guide for moral behavior in a constantly
evolving world. Its teachings provide a way to live virtuously and meaningfully that cuts
beyond time and cultural barriers. Dharma's capacity for change while upholding its
essential principles is evidence of the great wisdom contained in traditional Indian
philosophical systems.
As we come to a close, it is important to remember that dharma is a living notion that
provides inspiration and direction for people trying to live morally and purposefully in
the modern world. Its enduring impact challenges us to consider our own contributions to
sustaining morality, moral order, and the eternal quest of virtue.
  Bibliography :-
Books:
1. Radhakrishnan, S. (2014). The Bhagavadgītā. HarperOne.
2. Zaehner, R. C. (1966). Hinduism. Oxford University Press.
3. Jain, S. (2009). Jainism: The World of Conquerors. Motilal Banarsidass.
4. Rahula, W. (2014). What the Buddha Taught. Grove Press.
5. Smith, H. (1991). The World's Religions. HarperOne.
Academic Papers and Articles:
6. Olivelle, P. (2005). Dharma: The Dharmasūtras. In Gavin Flood (Ed.), The Blackwell
Companion to Hinduism (pp. 78-94). Wiley-Blackwell.
7. Lariviere, R. W. (1989). The Naradasmrti. University of Pennsylvania Press.
8. Bronkhorst, J. (2011). The Two Traditions of Meditation in Ancient India. Motilal
Banarsidass.
Ancient Texts:
9. Vyasa. (2000). The Mahabharata. Translated by Kisari Mohan Ganguli. Munshiram
Manoharlal Publishers.
10. Valmiki. (2002). The Ramayana. Translated by Arshia Sattar. Penguin Classics.
Websites:
11. Encyclopaedia Britannica. (n.d.). Dharma. https://www.britannica.com/topic/dharma.
12. The Jain Society of Toronto. (n.d.). Introduction to Jainism.
http://jainology.blogspot.com/2008/05/dharma-sadhana.html.
Remember to format your bibliography according to the specific citation style
required for your project, whether it's APA, MLA, Chicago, or another style. Also,
be sure to include all the necessary publication details for each source.