Dharma

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Hare Krishna,

 

Dharma as per Bhagavad-Gita

 

Summary: there is a gradual evolutionary progression from basic dharma of one's varna, to the ultimate giving up of dharma to surrender to Krishna.

 

(1) fulfilling your social (varna) duty (BG 2.31)

(2) humanitarian work (BG 1.41)

(3) religious, pious activity (BG 18.34)

(4) devotional service (BG 12.20)

(5) a natural quality of a devotee (BG 9.31)

(6) reunciation of so-called dharma to surrender to Krishna (BG 18.66)

 

(1) Dharma as the fulfilment of you duty according to varna and religious principles:

 

BG 2.31: "Considering your specific duty (dharma) as a ksatriya, you should know that there is no better engagement for you than fighting on religious principles (dharman); and so there is no need for hesitation."

 

(2) Dharma as humanitarian work:

 

BG 1.41: "Due to the evil deeds of the destroyers of family tradition, all kinds of community projects (jati-dharma) and family welfare (kula-dharma) activities are devastated."

 

(3) Dharma as piety (good religious acts):

 

Bg 18.34: "And that determination by which one holds fast to fruitive result in religion (dharma), economic development and sense gratification is of the nature of passion, O Arjuna."

 

(4) Dharma as devotional service:

 

BG: 12.20: "He who follows this imperishable path (dharma) of devotional service and who completely engages himself with faith, making Me the supreme goal, is very, very dear to Me."

 

(5) Dharma as a natural quality in a devotee:

 

BG 9.31: "He quickly becomes righteous (dharma-atma) and attains lasting peace. O son of Kunti, declare it boldly that My devotee never perishes."

 

(6) Dharma ultimately needs to be surrendered:

 

BG 18.66: Abandon all varieties of religion (dharman) and just surrender unto Me. I shall deliver you from all sinful reaction. Do not fear.

 

Your aspiring servant.