Concept and Meaning
**Sanātana Dharma** (सनातन् धर्म) translates to **"Eternal Law"** or **"Eternal Duty"**. It is the original, timeless name for what is often globally called **Hinduism**.
It is not based on the teachings of a single founder or prophet, but on universal, moral, and spiritual principles.
The Eternal Duties (Sāmānya Dharma)
These are universal ethical duties applicable to all people:
- **Satya (Truth):** Truthfulness in thought, word, and deed.
- **Ahimsa (Non-violence):** Non-injury to all living beings.
- **Dama (Self-Control):** Control over senses and mind.
- **Kshama (Forbearance):** Patience and forgiveness.
- **Asteya (Non-stealing):** Not taking what is not freely given.
Dharma vs. Svadharma
**Sāmānya Dharma:** Universal and moral law. Applies to all beings, regardless of caste, class, or stage of life.
**Svadharma:** One’s personal duty based on individual nature, role, and life stage. When these conflict, Svadharma may take precedence, as explained in the *Bhagavad Gītā*.
📚 Scriptural Foundations
- **Vedas:** The oldest and most authoritative texts.
- Upanishads, Bhagavad Gītā, Manusmṛti, and Purāṇas expand on its philosophy.
- These texts explore the soul (*ātman*), karma, rebirth, and liberation (*moksha*).
🧘♂️ Spiritual Goals
- **Moksha:** Liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
- **Seva:** Selfless service as a natural expression of the soul.
- Yoga and meditation are tools to align with one’s dharma and realize the Self.
🌍 Cultural & Historical Context
Sanātana Dharma predates organized religion and is considered the original spiritual tradition of the Indian subcontinent. It gave rise to various paths like Shaivism, Vaishnavism, Shaktism, Jainism, and Buddhism.