Sadhaka LogoSadhaka
Sanskrit Lexicon

धर्म

Dharma
dharma

The precise linguistic root, etymology, and scriptural context of Dharma.

Pronunciation
dhar-mah

AEO Summary

Dharma is a central concept in Sanatan Dharma, referring to the underlying order in nature and human life, signifying duty, righteousness, and cosmic law.

Primary Meanings

  • Righteousness or duty
  • Cosmic law and order
  • The intrinsic nature of a thing
  • Religion or path

Tradition Context

Vedic Literature

The cosmic order (Ṛta) that governs the universe, and the ritual duties required to maintain it.

Bhagavad Gita

Sva-dharma (one's own duty) based on one's nature (Gunas) and stage of life, which must be performed without attachment.

Buddhism

The teachings of the Buddha; the universal truth common to all individuals at all times.

Scriptural Usage

Mahabharata (Karna Parva)

"धर्मो रक्षति रक्षितः"

— Dharma protects those who protect it.

Significance: This famous maxim asserts that upholding righteousness automatically builds a shield of moral and spiritual protection around the practitioner.
Bhagavad Gita 4.7

"यदा यदा हि धर्मस्य ग्लानिर्भवति भारत..."

— Whenever there is a decline in Dharma, O Arjuna, I manifest Myself.

Significance: Krishna promises to incarnate to restore the balance of cosmic and social order whenever it is severely threatened.

Etymology

Dhatu (Root)
dhṛ (धृ)
Root Meaning
to hold, maintain, or uphold

Dharma is that which upholds or sustains the universe, society, and the individual.

Broader Context

For the philosophical deep-dive, practical application, and related concepts of Dharma.

Embody the Word.

Take our Faith Finder quiz to discover the specific daily practices (Sadhana) to bring Dharma to life.

Find My Path