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Essence of Dharma

CHENNAI: : The code of Hindu Dharma derives its authority and sanction from the Vedas and the Upanishads. But so complex and incomprehensible are these texts that they are of little practical value to the vast majority of people who are less endowed with intellectual acumen. The Bhagavad Gita, on the other hand brings the tenets of Dharma within the reach of the common man, said Sri Ganesa Sarma in a lecture, quoting Sage Vyasa's definition of it as "the essence of the scriptures". Its comprehensive and holistic teaching is something to be practised by all individuals in their day-to-day life. More importantly, the Lord Himself has spoken directly to Arjuna, and through him to the whole of humanity, in the role of a Jagadguru. None but the Lord could extract the essence of the esoteric Vedas and present it in such clear-cut and unambiguous terms. He teaches the essence of spiritual quest while also urging a depressed Arjuna to get ahead and fight for the rights of the Pandavas.

The Bhagavad Gita stresses the importance of Karma (performance of action), Bhakti (devotion to the Lord) and Jnana (God realisation), as essential aspects in the spiritual path of human beings. In this salient, safe and convincing three-in-one route, where Karma, Bhakti and Jnana are yoked together, there is no danger or fear of losing one's path. On the other hand, there is the assurance that one is sure of reaching the final destination. If one traverses on the road of Karma by performing one's duties with deep devotion to the Supreme Being, this Bhakti becomes the vehicle that takes one to the destination, God realisation.

All human beings, irrespective of birth and status, stand to gain by the teachings of this text, that places great importance only on faith and reverence. Its feasibility and practicality are transparent. The rules and regulations are valid for all people at all times. Any transgression will tell on the person concerned. There is no room for any kind of hypocrisy. The supreme state of salvation is for those who practise devotion to the Lord, while performing their ordained duties in a spirit of dedication to Him.

If and when this path of righteousness weakens and Adharma begins to thrive, the Lord vows to descend to this earth to establish the code of Dharma.

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