Dharma

Dharma (; Sanskrit: धर्म, pronounced [dʱɐrmɐ] ) is a key concept in various Indian-origin religions. The term dharma does not have a single, clear translation and conveys a multifaceted idea. Etymologically, it comes from the Sanskrit dhr-, meaning to hold or to support, thus referring to the law that sustains things—from one's life to society, and to the universe at large. Most commonly, dharma refers to an individual's moral responsibilities or duties; the dharma of a farmer differs from the dharma of a soldier, thus making the concept a dynamic one. The antonym of dharma is adharma. In Hinduism, dharma denotes behaviours that are considered to be in accord with Ṛta—the "order and custom" that makes life and the universe possible. This includes duties, rights, laws, conduct, virtues, and ethics, forming the "righteous way of living", which differs depending on one's identity, gender, and stage of life. The concept of dharma appears in the earliest Vedic texts, and its meaning and conceptual scope has evolved over several millennia. Dharma is believed to have a transtemporal validity, and is one of the puruṣārthas. In Buddhism, dharma (Pali: dhamma) refers to the teachings of the Buddha and to the true nature of reality (which the teachings point to). In Buddhist philosophy, dhamma/dharma is also the term for specific "phenomena" and for the ultimate truth. In Jainism, dharma refers to the teachings of Tirthankara (Jina) and the body of doctrine pertaining to purification and moral transformation. In Sikhism, dharma indicates the path of righteousness, proper religious practices, and performing moral duties.