Sanatana Dharma Flashcards
What is Sanatana dharma?
eternal law
understanding of Hinduism as a universal principle that all should obey, including Gods
Who is a Hindu?
Those who: live selflessly help others live for God participate in creation
Why is conversion not required?
whether they know it or not, everyone is part of God’s eternal duties
What is the purpose of scriptures?
remind people of need to live dutifully and responsibly and avoid selfish actions
How many religions are there in the Hindu concept of the world? Explain?
2:
religion of the good - live selflessly in service of others (daiva)
religion of the evil - live selfishly for oneself (asura)
Why is it important to follow dharma + religion?
‘dharmo rakshita rakshata’ - if you protect your religion or dharma, your dharma will protect you
How is dharma defined?
natural activity or propensity e.g. dog - eat, procreate, bark, bite if scared or agitated, be friendly with human beings etc
Where does dharma come from?
God - while not all duties are equal, they are sacred
What happens if the world becomes too chaotic due to the activities of people?
God incarnates on earth puts things right
How do you know if you are following your dharma according to the Bhagavad Gita (no quote)?
do not disturb others and are not disturbed by them - live peacefully and in harmony with others
12 ways dharma can be achieved?
1) curb braser desires + animal instincts
2) identify with inner self
3) make life + activities an offering to God
4) practice detachment
5) cultivate purity (sattva)
6) Practice non-violence and compassion
7) avoid evil and immoral thoughts
8) practice yoga and meditation
9) worship your Gods and diviinities
10) do your duty
11) positive + spiritual thoughts
12) right orgs, right thoughts, right deeds
What are the five obligatory duties of a devout Hindu?
1) nourish Gods
2) nourish ancestors
3) nourish needy human beings
4) nourish other living beings
5) serve seers and brahmanas
What is the difference between the dharma of animals and that of humans?
animals live for themselves as intended by nature
humans live wisely and intelligently and work for their liberation - intended by Creator
What is the dharma of Gods?
exist for others
help others according to their merit
