What is dharma

Last updated: April 1, 2026

Quick Answer: Dharma is a Sanskrit concept representing duty, righteousness, and cosmic order in Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain traditions.

Key Facts

Overview

Dharma is one of the most fundamental concepts in Hindu, Buddhist, Jain, and Sikh philosophies. The term comes from Sanskrit and literally means 'to hold' or 'to maintain,' referring to the cosmic order and individual duties that maintain harmony in society and the universe.

In Hinduism

In Hindu philosophy, dharma represents the righteous path and one's ethical and moral duties. The concept is explained extensively in texts like the Bhagavad Gita and the Dharmaśāstras. Dharma is not universal—it varies depending on one's varna (social class), ashrama (life stage), profession, and individual circumstances. For example, the duties of a warrior differ from those of a priest or merchant.

Types of Dharma

Dharma is often categorized into four types:

Relationship with Karma

Dharma is closely interconnected with karma (action and its consequences). Following one's dharma creates positive karma, while violating it creates negative karma. This understanding is central to the Hindu concepts of reincarnation and the cycle of birth and death.

In Other Traditions

In Buddhism, dharma refers to the teachings of Buddha and the cosmic law of nature. Buddhists follow the dharma through the Eightfold Path and other teachings as a means to achieve enlightenment and escape suffering.

Related Questions

What is the difference between dharma and karma?

Dharma refers to one's duty and righteous actions, while karma refers to the consequences of those actions. Dharma guides what one should do, and karma determines the results of following or ignoring dharma.

What is Sanatana Dharma?

Sanatana Dharma, meaning 'eternal law,' is the traditional name for Hinduism. It encompasses the eternal principles and universal truths that Hindus believe have existed since the beginning of time.

How does dharma relate to reincarnation?

Dharma and reincarnation are connected through karma. How well one follows their dharma in one lifetime determines their circumstances in the next life through the law of karma.

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Sources

  1. Wikipedia - Dharma CC-BY-SA-4.0
  2. Wikipedia - Bhagavad Gita CC-BY-SA-4.0