Miscellaneous - Religion   

Basis of ethics

CHENNAI : Scriptures define the rights and duties of each individual and all these enjoined duties are called Dharma. The Bhagavata Purana reveals the actual way of living out the essence and spirit of these injunctions to provide guidance in the performance of ordained duties of life — religious, social and personal — whatever be one's state, status or stage of life.

In the episode of Dhruva, Suniti's exposition of the quality of Samanya Dharma (that which is binding on all human beings) highlights its ability to eradicate the effects of Adharma, said Sri R. Krishnamurthy Sastrigal in a lecture. Though she felt the deep anguish caused by the unfair action of her husband towards her and their child Dhruva, as a wife and mother, Suniti reacted with foresight even when faced with a situation to which no solution was in sight.

She advised her son that if he desired to sit on the same throne as his stepbrother, he should give up the envious attitude and immediately try to execute the instructions of his stepmother Suruchi since her words though harsh were nevertheless factual. The only option for the child was to seek the Lord's feet to get his desire fulfilled. She told her son not to wish others anything inauspicious even when subjected to jibes that cause pain. The power of Adharma is such that anyone who inflicts pain on others will himself suffer from that pain.

Suniti was also aware of the law of karma that governs the lives of all individuals. Even if Dhruva felt himself insulted, there was no need to feel dissatisfied because all these are the effects of one's past deeds. This is the process of the Supreme Being and one has to accept His supreme will and be satisfied with whatever comes his way, be it favourable or unfavourable.

Implied in this advice are important truths regarding Ahimsa (showing respect and love to all created beings) and contentment, the practice of which can enhance the quality of life. This leads to the development of inner peace and happiness. Even among the four Purusharthas — Dharma (righteous living), Artha (wealth), Kama (worldly enjoyments) and Moksha (liberation) — if righteousness is upheld while in the pursuit of wealth and worldly enjoyments, one learns to discard these ephemeral pursuits and automatically strive for salvation.

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