Week 2 Discussion

Week 2 Discussion

by Deleted user -
Number of replies: 4

Dharma is one's duty (72) and the "consideration of others before oneself" (81). It is how one should live, according to their particular role. It aligns with Karma. One must treat others well and perform moral acts, in accordance with their position in society. In my life, I have a duty or obligation to be a good person, daughter, sister, and friend. Dharma teaches one to not put themselves first. By implementing proper dharma and karma, one is able to leave the circle of rebirth/samsara (77). This release is called moksha, a very peaceful state. This is the goal of Hinduism. Dharma is important because it provides the stepping stones and instructions for reaching such a state of peace. 

For example, Rama performs his dharma. He is a virtuous, loyal leader. Since this concept is so significant in Hinduism, it was discussed many years ago in the Ramayana. This epic provides followers with prime examples of people practicing their moral duty or dharma. This concept converges with bhakti because "it is the devotion to a personal deity" (91). By devoting oneself to a deity (not putting themselves first), they are following their duty and getting closer to moksha. 


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In reply to Deleted user

Re: Week 2 Discussion

by Deleted user -
Sam, I like your metaphor of dharma as a stepping stone to release. It is a nice visual, but personally I understand it as more of a hamster wheel. If you are not following dharma in all things you get caught in the round and round force of the wheel. As you do what is right and just, it slows, you gain footholds, and begin to understand how to work with the cyclical balance to easily stop and exit. Hinduism, again by my understanding, is a nonlinear set of traditions with a complex dynamic between the gods, gods and creation, humans to humans, and animals to humans. The list goes on adding in varna, devotional practices, and relational expectations. I guess I am trying to get at, what is the path? Is there only one, and can we rationalize all of Hinduism into one that suits all?

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In reply to Deleted user

Re: Week 2 Discussion

by Deleted user -
Hey Sam and Cosette, I love both the metaphor of the stepping stones and the hamster wheel. I think that the continual spinning of the hamster wheel until you finally master it is a perfect example of the repercussions of dharma. At the same time I really see dharma as a stepping stone towards moksha. The whole concept kind of seems like an obstacle course. I feel like the two metaphors y'all used will help me to place dharma's role in Hinduism.

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In reply to Deleted user

Re: Week 2 Discussion

by Deleted user -
Sam! I also really like the image you give with the stepping stones. I think you did a great job tying all of this together. I agree with you that karma has a big role in this and that it's important to remember when talking about someone's duty. I also think that it is an important way to think about how your life is impacting those around you and that helps you to be a better friend, sister, daughter, etc. I also enjoyed your point about making sure you aren't putting yourself above others.

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In reply to Deleted user

Re: Week 2 Discussion

by Deleted user -
Sam, I love the fact that you used Rama as an example of how dharma is applied. It's such a clear application and provides a good image of what dharma is and how it can be explained. I love the idea of the Rāmāyana as a story that can serve as a guide for morals and it shows why it's such a valuable piece of text in their culture.

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