The Essence of Dharma: Insights from Lord Krishna’s Teachings

Greetings, dear spiritual seekers and followers of Sanatan Dharma,

Radhe-Radhe! I offer my heartfelt salutations to you all as a servant of Gauri Gopal Bhagwan and His devoted follower, Aniruddhacharya. Today, we embark on a spiritual journey to understand the profound and eternal essence of dharma through the sacred teachings of Lord Krishna. This article will awaken a new awareness of dharma in your heart and inspire you toward life’s highest ideals.

The Supreme Description of Dharma - From Lord Krishna’s Gita

The Bhagavad Gita, a priceless gem of Sanatan Dharma, is a collection of Lord Krishna’s immortal words spoken to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. These words are not just for a warrior but for every human who wishes to walk the path of truth, morality, and duty. Lord Krishna says that dharma is the force that guides the soul toward the highest ideals. It is the path that encompasses virtues like non-violence, truth, austerity, charity, and unwavering devotion to the Divine.

Following dharma not only brings happiness and peace to an individual’s life but also leads them toward the ultimate goal—liberation. For instance, when we donate food to the poor, it not only fills their stomach but also satisfies our soul. This satisfaction is the initial form of dharma. Lord Krishna says that dharma is not limited to worship in temples; it is that which manifests in our every action, thought, and behavior.

Dharmah tat yat atmanam uchchatam adarshebhyah naikatayah cha sannadati.

(Dharma is that which guides the soul toward the highest ideals and morality.)

The Importance of Dharma in Character Building

One of the primary purposes of dharma is to build character. In the Gita, Lord Krishna explains to Arjuna that a person who follows dharma fulfills their duties with complete sincerity. They maintain patience and restraint even in difficult circumstances. Such a person can clearly distinguish between right and wrong and is capable of making ethical decisions.

Take, for example, a merchant who could lie to customers to earn more profit. But if they follow dharma, they choose the path of truth, even if it means less profit. This integrity strengthens their character and enhances their reputation in society. Lord Krishna says that dharma is the foundation that gives us the strength to surrender ourselves and serve others. When we recognize our true nature—that is, the soul—we can use our best abilities for the welfare of society.

Eliminating Selfishness in Dharma

In the Gita, Lord Krishna highlights a crucial aspect—renouncing selfishness. He says that following one’s dharma means performing actions with a pure heart, without expecting their fruits. When Arjuna feared fighting against his kin on the battlefield, Krishna explained that his duty as a warrior was to destroy adharma, not to worry about personal gain or loss.

This principle applies to our lives as well. Often, we perform actions to gain praise or profit. But Lord Krishna says that true dharma is that which is done selflessly. For example, if you help someone in need without expecting anything in return, that act becomes dharma. This selflessness purifies our mind and brings us closer to God.

The Meaning of Dharma in the Divine Presence

Lord Krishna speaks an inspiring verse in the Gita: "Yada yada hi dharmasya glanir bhavati bharata, abhyutthanam adharmasya tadatmanam srijamyaham. Paritranaya sadhunam vinashaya cha dushkritam, dharma-sansthapanarthaya sambhavami yuge yuge." This means that whenever dharma declines and adharma rises, I manifest Myself. To protect the righteous, destroy the wicked, and re-establish dharma, I appear in every age.

This verse assures us that God Himself is with us to protect dharma. But it is also our responsibility to uphold dharma at our level. When we embrace truth, justice, and compassion in our lives, we become part of Lord Krishna’s resolve. This teaches us that dharma is not just personal but also the foundation of societal welfare.

The Importance of Non-Violence in Dharma

Why is our Sanatan Dharma considered supreme worldwide? A key reason is the principle of non-violence. Lord Krishna describes non-violence as the core foundation of dharma in the Gita. He says that one who protects life is far greater than one who takes it. Non-violence does not only mean avoiding physical harm but also refraining from causing pain through thoughts, words, or actions.

For instance, if someone speaks harsh words in anger, that too is a form of violence. True non-violence purifies our thoughts and fills us with compassion for all beings. In our Sanatan Dharma, serving cows, nature, and all creatures is considered part of dharma because it symbolizes non-violence. When we feed the hungry or care for the sick, we live this great principle of non-violence.

Service - The Highest Form of Dharma

Lord Krishna’s teachings describe service as the highest form of dharma. He says that one who serves others serves Me. This spirit of service is not limited to words; it is a way of life. Whether it is caring for elderly parents, serving cows, or supporting an orphan—every act of service is a form of devotion to God.

I have experienced this myself. When I serve the elderly at Gauri Gopal Ashram or care for cows at the gaushala, I feel a unique peace and joy that surpasses any worldly pleasure. Once, a devotee asked me, "Maharaj, what does service give us?" I replied, "Service gives you the peace that connects your soul to the Divine. It is the form of dharma that brings you closest to God."

Conclusion

Dear friends, Lord Krishna’s teachings provide a comprehensive understanding of the profound principles of dharma that make our lives meaningful and successful. Dharma is not just a word—it is the life force that inspires us to walk the path of truth, non-violence, selflessness, and service. It is the light that pulls us out of darkness and gives our life a new direction.

I urge you all to reflect deeply on these teachings. Bring a small change to your life—perhaps help someone in need or act selflessly for a day. The peace and satisfaction you will feel will bring you closer to Lord Krishna. Purify your thoughts, make your actions selfless, and enrich your life with service. This is the true essence of dharma.

I invite you all to join this discussion. Share your experiences and thoughts on how you perceive and practice dharma in your life.

Radhe-Radhe! Glory to Gauri Gopal Bhagwan! Jai Shri Krishna!