Posted: September 12th, 2023

Ethical beliefs involved in the Hindu faith

What ethical beliefs are involved in the Hindu faith and in what situations are they most applicable?
Hinduism is a diverse and complex religion that encompasses various philosophical, ethical, and ritual systems. One of the key aspects of Hindu ethics is the concept of dharma, which can be translated as duty, righteousness, or law. Dharma is the moral order that sustains the universe and guides human actions. It is not a fixed set of rules, but rather a dynamic and context-dependent principle that varies according to one’s stage of life, caste, gender, occupation, and personal circumstances. Dharma also reflects the universal values of truth, nonviolence, compassion, generosity, and purity that are common to all Hindus.

Another important concept in Hindu ethics is karma, which means action and its consequences. Karma is the law of cause and effect that governs the cycle of birth and death (samsara). According to this law, every action, whether physical, mental, or verbal, has a corresponding result that affects one’s present and future lives. Good actions lead to positive results, such as happiness, health, wealth, or a higher rebirth; while bad actions lead to negative results, such as suffering, disease, poverty, or a lower rebirth. Karma also implies moral responsibility and accountability for one’s actions. Hindus believe that by performing good deeds and avoiding evil deeds, one can improve one’s karma and attain liberation (moksha) from samsara.

Hindu ethics also involves the pursuit of four legitimate goals of human life (purusharthas), namely dharma (duty), artha (wealth), kama (pleasure), and moksha (liberation). These goals are not mutually exclusive, but rather complementary and interdependent. Dharma is the primary goal that regulates the other three goals and ensures that they are pursued in a righteous manner. Artha is the goal of acquiring material prosperity and security through lawful means. Kama is the goal of enjoying sensual pleasures and fulfilling one’s desires in moderation. Moksha is the ultimate goal of attaining freedom from samsara and realizing one’s true nature as Brahman (the Supreme Reality).

Hindu ethics are not based on divine commandments or external authorities, but rather on rational inquiry and personal experience. Hindu scriptures, such as the Vedas, the Upanishads, the Bhagavad Gita, and the Puranas, provide guidance and inspiration for ethical living, but they are not binding or infallible. Hindu ethics are also pluralistic and tolerant of diversity and difference. There is no single ethical system or code that applies to all Hindus, but rather a variety of ethical perspectives and traditions that reflect the diversity of Hindu thought and practice. Hindu ethics are also dynamic and adaptable to changing times and situations. Hindus seek to balance tradition and innovation in their ethical decisions and actions.

Hindu ethics are relevant and applicable to various situations in modern life. For example, Hindu ethics can help address issues such as environmental protection, social justice, human rights, gender equality, animal welfare, bioethics, business ethics, and interfaith dialogue. Hindu ethics can also inspire individuals to live a virtuous and meaningful life that contributes to the welfare of oneself and others. Hindu ethics can also foster a sense of harmony and unity with nature, society, and God.

References:

: https://www.britannica.com/topic/Hinduism
: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism
: https://www.hinduismtoday.com/magazine/july-1989/1989-07-hindu-ethics/
: https://tfhc.nt.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0014/252221/nt-hinduism-fact-sheet.pdf