The word Dharma is derived from the root Dhri ( to hold) and means 'that which upholds' or 'that by which the universe is upheld. It is Dharma that keeps up this rising chain of evolution, from which there is no escape. All Jivas, other then man are completely under the power of Prakriti (Nature) and follow her law automatically. Kanada defines Dharma 'That is Dharma which brings about material and spiritual advancement and final Liberation."
The Rishis of old made four Divisions of Dharma Sadharana, Vishesha, Asadharana & Apaddharma. Karma is the vibration of Prakriti or primordial matter, which is the result of its three gunas or principles of creation. Ril creation comes from the operation of Karma. According to the Hindu Shastras Bhakti is considered of the Prana or life principle of all the Phases of worship. The Sadhans have been devided by the holy Maharshits into four classes-Mantra Yoga, Hatha Yoga, Laya Yoga, Raja Yoga. In Sanatan Dharma death does not signify anything more then the leaving of the Sthula Sharira of five tattwas by the Sukshma Sharira of 18 Tattwas. In the law of Karma the position of men and women are like seed and the soil.
The aim of all the Religion of the world is the realisation of the Divine. This realisation assures freedom from pain.
The four Vedas-The Rig, the Yajus, The Sama and the Atharva are the ancient scriptures of the aryans. The Upanishads occupy a prominent place in Sanskrit Literature. The quintessence of Vedic philosophy is contained in them. Ramayan has no peralledl in literary grande our and in historical significance. It's style is so simple charming, fluent and chaste that any reader possessing an ordinary knowledge of Sanskrit language, carefully grasp the meaning and thought. |