Miscellaneous - Religion   

Value of dharma

CHENNAI : The rationale governing the cause of joy and sorrow in one's life remains elusive and the Puranas and the Itihasas contain interesting discussions on these issues while unfolding the laws of righteous conduct in an experiential and practical mode to guide the actions of the individual, the community, society, and the nation.

For instance, the misfortunes faced by the Pandavas at the hands of the Kauravas appear undeserving, considering their strict adherence to the dharmic way of life. This question was raised during their stay in Dwaita Vana when they lamented their misery that seemed to be endless. Yudhishtira held that when in dire straits, one should ponder over what bad deeds had brought this misery. There is no limit to calamities, and it is not possible to ascertain either their final or efficient cause.

The law of karma distributes the fruits of both virtue and vice as joy and sorrow. The irony is that in spite of the desire for joy and dislike for misery, there is not much eagerness to align oneself to good deeds, while it is easier to fall into bad ways.

The true import of dharma is so deep and hidden that none can claim to have grasped it fully, and it is with this humble knowledge that Yudhishtira agrees to the Yaksha's command to answer questions on dharma, pointed out Sri B. Damodara Dikshitar in a lecture.

The precise, insightful and clear answers to the fundamental questions on the most profound truths of existence reveal his depth of wisdom.

It is the power of Brahman that is responsible for the subtle working of the entire planetary system with the sun at the centre. The planets move around the sun, dharma causes it to set and truth holds the entire system intact.

The inner meaning interprets the same functions as indicative of the light of one's soul that gets illumined with the Jnana of the Vedas, follows the path of dharma and attains the ultimate goal of life, self-realisation. The entire universe is held intact and supported by the Eternal Truth.

It is reiterated that dharma protects those who uphold and cherish it and destroys those who violate its code.

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