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Significance of Dharma

Dharma, in Buddhism, encapsulates the teachings and principles set forth by the Buddha that guide individuals towards liberation, understanding the nature of reality, and attaining enlightenment. It emphasizes the path to liberation from suffering through ethical conduct and spiritual practices. In Buddhism, Dharma serves as a framework for interpreting existence, acknowledging that while phenomenal elements are ungraspable, the teachings provide a necessary guide for practitioners in their spiritual journey, steering them away from desire and towards enlightenment.1
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Synonyms: Righteousness, Law, Morality, Duty, Virtue, Ethics, Principle, Moral law, Cosmic order

In Dutch: Dharma; In German: Dharma; In Finnish: Dharma; In Spanish: Dharma; In Swedish: Dharma; In Malay: Dharma; In French: Dharma

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Dharma'

Buddhism Books

Dharma in Buddhism encompasses the Buddha's teachings, universal truths, and moral principles guiding individuals towards enlightenment and liberation. It reflects cosmic law and reality's interdependent nature, promoting ethical conduct and understanding in spiritual practice.

Significance in Mahayana (major branch of Buddhism):
Mahayana Books

From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra

(1) The teachings of the Buddha, which Devadatta repeatedly sought from various monks but was continually denied.[1] (2) The teachings and laws of the Buddha, which guide practitioners toward liberation and understanding.[2] (3) The cosmic law and order, also referring to the teachings of the Buddha that guide one toward spiritual realization and ethical living.[3] (4) The cosmic law and order, as well as the teachings of the Buddha that guide one towards enlightenment.[4] (5) The elements or phenomena that constitute reality in Buddhist philosophy.[5]

From: Mahavastu (great story)

(1) The law or the teachings of the Buddha, which guide individuals towards spiritual enlightenment and the cessation of suffering.[6] (2) The teachings of the Buddha, representing the path to enlightenment and the truth of existence.[7] (3) The moral code which the king and characters in the story are referenced to maintain.[8] (4) The cosmic law and order, as well as moral teachings that guide ethical living and spiritual advancement.[9] (5) The teachings and doctrines that the Bodhisattva sets rolling after achieving enlightenment, benefiting all beings.[10]

From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)

(1) The teachings of the Buddha that explain the nature of reality and guide the path to enlightenment.[11] (2) Various teachings or phenomena in Buddhism; can refer to the nature of reality as depicted through various concepts.[12] (3) The teachings of the Buddha, encompassing spiritual knowledge and ethics that guide practitioners towards enlightenment, which can be misrepresented by those under possession.[13] (4) The fundamental truths or phenomena in existence that should be contemplated and understood as lacking inherent reality or permanence.[14] (5) A concept in Buddhism referring to the teachings and the ultimate truth, which is often challenging to articulate.[15]

From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra

(1) The teaching of the Buddha that embodies the truth and path for spiritual progress, depicted as a treasured store of wisdom.[16] (2) The natural law of the universe as taught in Buddhism, often serving as a guide for understanding the path to enlightenment.[17] (3) The teachings of the Buddha which guide adherents towards enlightenment and understanding of the nature of reality.[18] (4) The teachings of the Buddha which outline the path to achieving Enlightenment and understanding the truth of existence.[19] (5) The cosmic law and order, as well as the teachings of the Buddha that guide individuals toward enlightenment.[20]

From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara

(1) The teachings and laws in Buddhism that guide practitioners towards liberation.[21] (2) The teachings of the Buddha, which include the path to liberation and the nature of reality.[22] (3) The teachings of the Buddha, which Shantideva studied and internalized over a long period, particularly from the noble Manjushri.[23] (4) The teachings and practices that guide individuals towards enlightenment and ethical living.[24] (5) The teachings of Buddha that guide practitioners toward achieving enlightenment and perfecting their understanding of reality.[25]

From: The 6th Patriarch Platform Sutra

(1) The teachings of the Buddha, representing the law of reality and moral order that followers should understand and practice.[26] (2) The teachings of Buddhism, which the Patriarch stressed should be understood with clarity rather than mere recital.[27] (3) The teachings of the Buddha and a complex concept that encompasses the natural law of the universe.[28] (4) The universal truth or the teachings in Buddhism; according to the Patriarch, there is only one Dharma.[29] (5) The teaching and law of Buddhism, emphasizing that misconceptions can arise from misinterpretation of fundamental principles.[30]

From: Lankavatara Sutra

(1) The teachings or doctrines shared by the Tathagata that guide beings towards enlightenment and the cessation of suffering.[31] (2) The teachings of the Buddha that guide individuals towards enlightenment and away from harmful actions like meat-eating.[32] (3) The teachings of the Buddha which provide guidance on how to attain enlightenment and navigate the nature of existence.[33] (4) The teachings of the Buddha, representing the natural law that governs the universe and ethical conduct.[34] (5) The teachings of the Buddha, which are to be proclaimed and retained by the followers mentioned in the text.[35]

From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra

(1) The teachings of the Buddha, encompassing the truths of existence, ethics, and the path to liberation.[36] (2) The teachings of the Buddha, which is described as being free of living beings, desire, and is ultimately inexpressible.[37] (3) The teachings of the Buddha, which encompass the moral and spiritual laws essential for living a life conducive to enlightenment.[38] (4) The ultimate truth and teachings that transcend material interests and attachments.[39]

From: The gods of northern Buddhism

(1) The teachings of the Buddha; the law that Buddha articulated to help mitigate suffering and ignorance.[40] (2) Dharma refers to the teachings of the Buddha, the law, and the truth within Buddhism that guides followers on their spiritual journey.[41]

From: Lotus Sutra (Saddharma-Pundarika)

(1) The cosmic law and order; in Buddhism, it refers to the teachings of the Buddha.[42] (2) The law preached by the Tathagata that leads beings to happiness and liberation.[43]

From: The Perfection Of Wisdom In Eight Thousand Lines

(1) The teachings and principles of Buddhism that those who have become irreversible are devoted to.[44]

From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra

(1) The teachings of the Buddha which provide guidance on righteousness and spiritual truth.[45]

From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva Purvapranidhana Sutra

(1) The teachings of the Buddha, encompassing the truths about suffering, existence, and the path to enlightenment.[46]

From: Akshayamatinirdesha [english]

(1) The cosmic law and order or the teaching of the Buddha that leads to spiritual awakening and understanding.[47]

Mahayana is a major branch of Buddhism focusing on the path of a Bodhisattva (spiritual aspirants/ enlightened beings). Extant literature is vast and primarely composed in the Sanskrit language. There are many sutras of which some of the earliest are the various Prajnaparamita sutras.

Significance in Buddhism (general):

From: The Great Chariot

(1) The teachings and the truth according to Buddhist philosophy; samadhi with radiation of light.[48] (2) The teachings and laws in Buddhism that guide individuals towards truth and enlightenment.[49] (3) The teachings of the Buddha that guide practitioners towards understanding the nature of reality and the path to liberation.[50] (4) The teachings and laws that are outlined in Buddhism, which provide the path to liberation from suffering.[51] (5) The teachings and precepts that guide ethical and spiritual conduct.[52]

From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)

(1) The teachings of the Buddha, representing the universal law and order that governs moral conduct and existence.[53]

From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)

(1) The teachings and doctrines of the Buddha that guide followers towards enlightenment and liberation from suffering.[54]

Significance in Tibetan Buddhism (Vajrayana or tantric Buddhism):
Tibetan Buddhism Books

From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)

(1) The teachings of the Buddha, which Master spyan snga propagated and lived by, central to the practice of Buddhism.[55] (2) The teachings and philosophy of Buddhism that inspired numerous monastic foundations and practices.[56] (3) The teachings and laws of Buddhism that guide followers toward enlightenment and right conduct.[57] (4) Refers to the teachings of Buddhism which are foundational to understanding the nature of reality and the path toward enlightenment.[58] (5) Refers to the teachings and doctrine that Spyan Snga devoted himself to, ensuring its continuity.[59]

From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]

(1) The cosmic law and order, often referring to the teachings and principles in Buddhism that guide moral conduct.[60] (2) The teachings or law as propounded by spiritual teachers and important in understanding existence.[61] (3) The principle of cosmic order, law, and duty, related to pure knowledge.[62] (4) Dharma is described as a principle acknowledged by wise individuals, which leads to prosperity and the highest good.[63]

Tibetan Buddhism includes schools such as Nyingma, Kadampa, Kagyu and Gelug. Their primary canon of literature is divided in two broad categories: The Kangyur, which consists of Buddha鈥檚 words, and the Tengyur, which includes commentaries from various sources. Esotericism and tantra techniques (vajrayana) are collected indepently.

Significance in Theravada (major branch of Buddhism):
Theravada Books

From: Maha Buddhavamsa鈥擳he Great Chronicle of Buddhas

(1) The teachings of the Buddha that encompass ethical and moral principles guiding Buddhism.[64] (2) The teachings of the Buddha; Sona's journey revolved around his understanding and practice of dharma.[65]

From: Vinaya Pitaka (1): Bhikkhu-vibhanga (the analysis of Monks鈥� rules)

(1) The teaching of the Buddha that emphasizes just conduct and virtue, which the monks are expected to follow.[66]

From: Introducing Buddhist Abhidhamma

(1) The teachings of the Buddha, which reveal the nature of suffering, its origins, and the path to cessation.[67]

Theravada is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).

Hindu concept of 'Dharma'

Hinduism Books

Dharma in Hinduism embodies the principles of morality, duty, and righteousness, guiding individual conduct and responsibilities through cosmic order, ethical codes, and spiritual disciplines as prescribed in Vedic texts and demonstrated by key figures like the Pandavas.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Devi Bhagavata Purana

(1) The concept of duty and virtue that underlines much of the moral discussions and conflicts within the story.[68] (2) The moral and ethical code that guided Pururava's governance of his kingdom.[69] (3) Righteousness or the moral law governing individual conduct in accordance with Hindu philosophy.[70] (4) Righteousness, moral law, and duties, as central to conducting one's life and spirituality.[71] (5) The moral law or duty that guides individual actions within spiritual practices.[72]

From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)

(1) A key concept in Indian philosophy referring to duty, virtue, and moral law, which Ravana encourages Sita to contravene.[73] (2) The law of righteousness that dictates the duties and moral obligations of a prince, including protection of his subjects.[74] (3) A key concept representing duty, righteousness, and moral law, underpinning the actions and decisions of the characters.[75] (4) The moral and ethical duties and righteousness that Rama adheres to, demonstrating his noble character throughout the text.[76] (5) The moral law that governs individual conduct, which King Dasaratha is urged to uphold.[77]

From: Mahabharata (English)

(1) The principle of cosmic order and law, often personified in texts as a deity.[78] (2) The concept of duty, righteousness, and moral law, described as the eldest-born of the speaker.[79] (3) The concept of duty, righteousness, and moral law in Hindu philosophy.[80] (4) In the context of the battle, it alludes to virtue and righteousness, encompassing the warriors' duties in battle.[81] (5) The cosmic law and order, often associated with duty, moral righteousness, and social justice.[82]

From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)

(1) The moral law combined with spiritual teachings found in Buddhism and Hinduism, guiding ethical and rightful living.[83] (2) Righteousness or moral law guiding one's actions, deeply embedded in various philosophical and religious texts, such as the Bhagavadgita.[84] (3) The moral law governing individual conduct, which must be understood in the context of societal norms and personal duty.[85] (4) Moral duty or law governing individual conduct, indispensable for spiritual growth.[86] (5) The ethical obligation or righteousness that guides moral actions, foundational to the principles discussed in the Gita regarding duty and conduct.[87]

From: Gautami Mahatmya

(1) The son of Vivasvat and the Controller of all embodied beings, who plays a crucial role in the arrangement of Dharma and Adharma.[88] (2) Righteousness or moral duty that varies based on time and place, influenced by societal structures and norms.[89] (3) The intelligent husband of Suvarna, who is referenced as a character in the narrative of Agni's lineage.[90] (4) The principle of cosmic order and moral law established during the events of the wedding, essential for societal balance.[91] (5) The moral law or duty that one must adhere to, which can be defiled by dishonoring great persons.[92]

From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha

(1) The natural law of righteousness that governs one's actions in the world.[93] (2) Moral and ethical duties or laws that govern an individual's conduct and responsibilities in life.[94] (3) Moral laws or virtues guiding an individual's conduct.[95] (4) Virtuous actions or laws that govern moral conduct.[96] (5) The moral or virtuous duties and actions prescribed in scriptures.[97]

From: Markandeya Purana

(1) The principle of cosmic order and righteousness that guides characters like Harishcandra.[98] (2) A being created before all others, representing righteousness and virtue.[99] (3) The principle of cosmic order and duty, guiding individuals toward virtuous living and ultimately leading them to heaven.[100]

From: Vishnu Purana

(1) The moral law governing individual conduct, highlighted through characters doing their duties throughout the text.[101] (2) Conceptual discussions on duty and righteousness that are rooted in the narratives of the Bhagavata.[102] (3) The son of Gandhara, maintaining the ancestral connection.[103]

From: Bhagavadgita

(1) While not explicitly mentioned, it relates to the moral duty Arjuna struggles with in the context of battle.[104] (2) The moral law and duties that guide an individual鈥檚 behaviors and actions according to their role in society, as explored in the Gita.[105]

From: Anugita (English translation)

(1) A key concept in Hindu philosophy representing duty, order, and righteousness, central to the ethical discussions within the Anugita.[106]

From: Garuda Purana

(1) A prince whose lineage includes notable figures like Dharmamitra and Kunti.[107]

From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4

(1) The principles of cosmic order and moral law that govern the universe and human behavior.[108]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India鈥檚 vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Dharmashastra (religious law):
Dharmashastra Books

From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi

(1) The moral and ethical duties or laws that govern individual conduct, which are believed to be derived from the Veda.[109] (2) A complex concept in Indian philosophy meaning duty, righteousness, or proper conduct, which can vary based on context and personal circumstances.[110] (3) The moral law or duty, which encompasses the principles that guide the legal system and its processes.[111] (4) The moral law and spiritual duties governing individual conduct, considered fundamental in the texts of Manu and others.[112] (5) A key concept in Indian philosophy, referring to the moral and ethical duties as well as the laws that guide individual behavior and social order.[113]

Dharmashastra contains the instructions (shastra) regarding religious conduct of livelihood (dharma), ceremonies, jurisprudence (study of law) and more. It is categorized as smriti, an important and authoritative selection of books dealing with the Hindu lifestyle.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)

(1) the principles of religion.[114] (2) A term that signifies duty, righteousness, or law, though not explicitly mentioned, relates to the context of meditation and exploration.[115] (3) A concept referring to duty, moral order, and righteousness that governs an individual's actions.[116] (4) A principle foundational to moral law and duty, practiced by the sages in their spiritual journeys.[117] (5) A term that refers to righteousness or duty, indicating the nature and limitations that govern the senses.[118]

From: Chaitanya Bhagavata

(1) Religious principles or duties as prescribed in the Vedas, opposite to which lies irreligion.[119] (2) A hunter whose piety is questioned, illustrating that devotional service is not limited by one's social standing.[120] (3) The righteous duty or law as described in the Vedas, encompassing the moral and ethical code of conduct.[121] (4) The eternal religious principles of righteousness and duty, which are interconnected with the essence of spiritual practices.[122] (5) Dharma refers to the moral order and duty that an individual should uphold in life, reflecting righteous living.[123]

From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation

(1) The code of moral and ethical conduct, which Lord Rama exemplifies as a protector and instiller of happiness.[124] (2) The moral and ethical duties and principles that the Lord aims to maintain and restore.[125] (3) The moral and ethical principles that the Lord strives to maintain and restore in society.[126] (4) The principle of ethical duty, particularly emphasized in relation to varnas and the status of followers within the religious context.[127]

From: Bhajana-Rahasya

(1) The eternal principle of duty and spiritual practice, which living entities can realize through the teachings of Shrimad-Bhagavatam.[128] (2) religion in general; the socio-religious duties prescribed in the scriptures for different classes of persons in the varnashrama system.[129] (3) Dharma refers to the principle of religiosity or duty in life, which is one of the four traditional goals but is ultimately seen as less important than pure devotion.[130]

From: Prem Sagar (English translation)

(1) Moral and righteous duty, a thematic element in Krishna's actions against Bhomasoor.[131] (2) A key theme involving moral duty which influences the actions of characters within the story.[132] (3) Referring to moral duty or righteousness; a theme throughout the narrative as Raja Parikshit seeks to understand how to restore his virtue.[133]

From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya

(1) The moral and ethical duties or laws that govern individual conduct, especially in relation to one's role in society within the context of Hindu philosophy.[134]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (鈥榯en avatars of Vishnu鈥�).

Significance in Vedanta (school of philosophy):
Vedanta Books

From: Taittiriya Upanishad

(1) The code of conduct and moral duties in life, which individuals may pursue to attain the greater Bliss associated with Brahman.[135] (2) The ethical and moral duties prescribed in the context of the Vedas, guiding individuals in their actions.[136]

From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)

(1) Refers to Selves or Jivas, indicating the essence or nature of beings.[137] (2) Literally meaning 'attribute', it is used to indicate Jiva, which in Vedanta philosophy is seen as non-different from the essence of Brahman.[138]

From: Thirty minor Upanishads

(1) The principle of cosmic order, righteousness, and duty.[139] (2) Moral and righteous conduct, characterized by principles such as courage, purity, and control over desires.[140]

From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad

(1) The concept of righteousness, described as sweet and beneficial, crucial for the order and support of all beings.[141]

From: Kena upanishad (Madhva commentary)

(1) A moral principle embodied by one of the Devas who subsequently learned about Brahman.[142]

From: Kathopanishad (Madhva commentary)

(1) The principle of cosmic order, duty, and ethics, referring to the support of all worldly systems.[143]

From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika

(1) The practice of agnihotra and other duties, as mentioned in the text, indicating its importance in guiding moral and ethical behavior.[144]

Vedanta refers to a school of orthodox Hindu philosophy (astika), drawing its subject-matter from the Upanishads. There are a number of sub-schools of Vedanta, however all of them expound on the basic teaching of the ultimate reality (brahman) and liberation (moksha) of the individual soul (atman).

Significance in Shaktism (Shakta philosophy):
Shaktism Books

From: Shakti and Shakta

(1) The teachings of the Buddha and the natural law of the universe, vital for the spiritual journey and liberation.[145] (2) The principle of right activity or conduct in accordance with cosmic order, which is central to moral living and societal ethics in Hindu philosophy.[146] (3) Moral laws and duties governing an individual's conduct in accordance with societal and spiritual order.[147] (4) In the broad sense, it refers to morality and the law of form, encompassing both religious duties and ethical conduct, beyond mere ritual.[148] (5) Righteousness, moral duty, and the ethical path in life, significant for procuring happiness and guiding actions.[149]

Shakta or Shaktism (shaktism) represents a tradition of Hinduism where the Goddess (Devi) is revered and worshipped. Shakta literature includes a range of scriptures, including various Agamas and Tantras, although its roots may be traced back to the Vedas.

Significance in Vaisheshika (school of philosophy):
Vaisheshika Books

From: Padarthadharmasamgraha and Nyayakandali

(1) The moral and ethical duties prescribed by scriptures, often influenced by one鈥檚 desires.[150] (2) Moral law or duty, which governs actions and has a direct impact on one's rebirth and the quality of their existence.[151] (3) Ethical duty or righteousness that can arise from aversion towards those who threaten spiritual or moral principles.[152] (4) The principle that ensures that things behave in a consistent manner based on their characteristics, allowing for reliable inference about the world.[153]

Vaisheshika refers to a school of orthodox Hindu philosophy (astika), drawing its subject-matter from the Upanishads. Vaisheshika deals with subjects such as logic, epistemology, philosophy and expounds concepts similar to Buddhism in nature

Significance in Kavya (poetry):
Kavya Books

From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)

(1) The chief of virtuous men and the king of a small province in the Deccan who faced betrayal from his relatives.[154]

From: Naishadha-charita of Shriharsha

(1) A significant theme in the story which represents the moral and ethical duties that Nala grapples with while balancing his love for Damayanti.[155]

From: Harsha-charita

(1) The moral law combined with spiritual discipline that guides one's life.[156]

Kavya refers to Sanskrit poetry, a popular ancient Indian tradition of literature. There have been many Sanskrit poets over the ages, hailing from ancient India and beyond. This topic includes mahakavya, or 鈥榚pic poetry鈥� and natya, or 鈥榙ramatic poetry鈥�.

Significance in Vyakarana (Sanskrit grammar):
Vyakarana Books

From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari

(1) Indicates a principle or law that may be connected to the numerical aspect or further meaning of vimshati.[157] (2) An attribute or principle that can shift in perception, illustrating that what is seen as attribute may also represent the essence or reality in different contexts.[158] (3) The truth or law that the Rishis realized, serving as the foundation for their teachings and the guidance within the Vedas.[159]

Vyakarana refers to Sanskrit grammar and represents one of the six additional sciences (vedanga) to be studied along with the Vedas. Vyakarana concerns itself with the rules of Sanskrit grammar and linguistic analysis in order to establish the correct context of words and sentences.

Significance in Natyashastra (theatrics and dramaturgy):
Natyashastra Books

From: Natyashastra (English)

(1) The principle of duty or righteousness which is one of the goals of life referenced in the context of the play's performance.[160]

Natyashastra refers to both the ancient Indian tradition (shastra) of performing arts, (natya鈥攖heatrics, drama, dance, music), as well as the name of a Sanskrit work dealing with these subjects. It also teaches the rules for composing Dramatic plays (nataka), construction and performance of Theater, and Poetic works (kavya).

Significance in Jyotisha (astronomy and astrology):
Jyotisha Books

From: Hayanaratna: The Jewel of Annual Astrology

(1) This term may denote a class of action, and on the other hand, the resulting 鈥榮ubstance鈥�, intangible but manifesting in time as concrete good fortune, and it is indirectly connected with astrology.[161]

Jyotisha (啶溹啶啶むた啶�, jyotisha or jyotish) refers to 鈥榓stronomy鈥� or 鈥淰edic astrology鈥� and represents the fifth of the six Vedangas (additional sciences to be studied along with the Vedas). Jyotisha concerns itself with the study and prediction of the movements of celestial bodies, in order to calculate the auspicious time for rituals and ceremonies.

Significance in Pancaratra (worship of N膩r膩ya峁嘺):
Pancaratra Books

From: Parama Samhita (English translation)

(1) The moral and ethical principles that serve as the social law guiding individuals' behavior.[162]

Pancaratra represents a tradition of Hinduism where Narayana is revered and worshipped. Closeley related to Vaishnavism, the Pancaratra literature includes various Agamas and tantras incorporating many Vaishnava philosophies.

Significance in Arthashastra (politics and welfare):
Arthashastra Books

From: Shukra Niti by Shukracharya

(1) Moral law and duty, guiding principles for justice and ethical conduct within the kingdom.[163]

Arthashastra literature concerns itself with the teachings (shastra) of economic prosperity (artha) statecraft, politics and military tactics. The term arthashastra refers to both the name of these scientific teachings, as well as the name of a Sanskrit work included in such literature. This book was written (3rd century BCE) by by Kautilya, who flourished in the 4th century BCE.

Significance in Kama-shastra (the science of Love-making):
Kamashastra Books

From: Kamashastra Discourse (Life in Ancient India)

(1) Rules and principles related to spiritual life, which are compared to the experiential nature of material success (Artha) and eroticism (Kama).[164]

Kamashastra deals with ancient Indian science of love-making, passion, emotions and other related topics dealing with the pleasures of the senses.

Jain concept of 'Dharma'

Jainism Books

Dharma in Jainism encompasses qualities of substances, moral laws, and duties guiding spiritual growth. It signifies ethical conduct, righteous paths, cosmic order, and teachings of Tirthankaras, emphasizing truth, non-violence, and societal harmony.

Significance in Jainism (general):

From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra

(1) The moral law combined with spiritual discipline that governs one's life in this context.[165] (2) A set of moral and spiritual laws guiding behavior and promoting elevation from an evil state of existence.[166] (3) The moral and ethical path in accordance with spiritual teachings within the community.[167] (4) The moral law and duties that one must follow; in this text, it is tied to the spiritual guidance given to the protagonist.[168] (5) The practice of righteousness that both Aparajita and Vimalabodha engage in while serving the muni.[169]

From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)

(1) The lawful or moral duties one must carry out, often connected to activities that lead to right faith.[170] (2) Virtue or duty, the moral principles that guide an individual's conduct in life.[171] (3) The medium of motion that is instrumental in the changes and actions of substances over time.[172] (4) A term denoting the attributes or qualities of a substance that can vary depending on the context and point of view from which they are considered.[173]

From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra

(1) A fundamental concept representing cosmic law and order, co-extensive with the world.[174]

Jainism is an Indian religion of Dharma whose doctrine revolves around harmlessness (ahimsa) towards every living being. The two major branches (Digambara and Svetambara) of Jainism stimulate self-control (or, shramana, 鈥榮elf-reliance鈥�) and spiritual development through a path of peace for the soul to progess to the ultimate goal.

The concept of Dharma in local and regional sources

History Books

Dharma encompasses the ethical duties, moral laws, and principles governing conduct in society, representing righteousness in Hindu philosophy. It influences individual behavior, societal responsibilities, and cultural practices, serving as a cornerstone for moral order and justice.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) This is what pilgrims will pay their homage to, and the Lumbini garden in Nepal where he was born, Kapilavastu, the home of the Sakyas, the Deer Park of Sarnath where he first turned the Wheel of the Law, Sanchi where the relics of his great disciples are preserved.[175] (2) The principle of cosmic order, moral law, and duty in Hindu philosophy.[176] (3) A term often discussed and interpreted in various ways, representing duty or righteousness that Murty addressed with clarity.[177] (4) A foundational principle that promotes unity and well-being among individuals, representing both a moral duty and a harmonious societal structure.[178] (5) A key concept highlighted as untranslatable, emphasizing its importance in various literary and philosophical contexts.[179]

From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda

(1) Dharma refers to the righteous path or duty, and it is through the true fulfilment of the householder's Dharma that a few men may attain the highest freedom.[180] (2) One thing should be especially remembered here, that there is no connection between these historical researches and our real aim, which is the knowledge that leads to the acquirement of this.[181] (3) This is the true identity of the dog, the Lord of Death and Justice, who reveals himself to the king and praises his unselfishness and compassion, showcasing his commitment to righteousness.[182] (4) Dharma is the character in the Mahabharata who asks Yudhishthira to identify the most wonderful thing in the world, leading to a discussion about deathlessness.[183]

From: History of Science in South Asia

(1) This is a reference to the principle of relinquishing the sword and ceasing battle in the presence of women, as it relates to Pratapasimha.[184] (2) Dharma is a characteristic or law that applies to a side in the anumana method, which is associated with the desired quantity.[185]

From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints

(1) A complex term in Hinduism representing duties, morality, and righteousness, significantly influencing Marathi bhakti literature.[186]

Significance in South Asia:
South Asia Books

From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)

(1) The teaching and law of Buddhism, which was spread in Simhala, reflecting its connection to moral and spiritual practices.[187]

Plural form: Dharmas.