This is a conversation between Arjun and Shreya.
They are discussing about the concept of Ordained Duties in Sanatana Dharma.
Today let us discuss about Ordained Duties in Sanatana Dharma.
Arjun, I’ve been thinking about the importance of performing our duties. It seems to me that they’re inevitable in everyone’s life but doing them with virtues is crucial for a balanced and fulfilling life.
Absolutely, Shreya. Virtues like ethics, honour, good conduct, and integrity are essential. They not only help in personal growth but also contribute to the well-being of society.
Right. And there’s always this debate about efficiency versus honesty. What’s your take on that?
Well, it’s clear that both are important. However, a person who is honest but not very efficient can still be tolerated. On the other hand, someone who is efficient but insincere isn’t acceptable. Efficiency improves with experience, but insincerity is a mental disease that’s hard to get rid of.
That’s true. I’ve read that people earn money primarily in two ways: salary from employment and earnings from self-effort. It’s important for salaried employees to work sincerely without deception. They need to prove they’re worth their salt.
Exactly, Shreya. That’s called Udyōga Dharma. Employers, on the other hand, have Vyāpāra Dharma, which means they must pay their employees fair wages corresponding to their labour without exploiting them.
And those who earn money by self-effort have more freedom in choosing their means of earning. But they must still conduct their activities honestly and ethically.
Definitely. It’s all about trikaraṇa śuddhi, which means using the mind, tongue, and body in harmony. If our thoughts, words, and actions are aligned, we become virtuous and trusted individuals.
Yes, as the saying goes, “As is the mind, so is the speech; as is the speech, so is the action.” Virtuous people have uniformity in thought, speech, and action.
And when it comes to necessity versus duty, Maslow’s hierarchy of needs suggests that our efforts are motivated by our needs. But according to Sanātana Dharma, we must fulfil our obligatory duties whether there’s a need or not.
That’s a profound thought, Arjun. For example, even if we don’t feel the need to donate, we must do so according to our ability without expecting anything in return. It’s a sense of duty that benefits others.
Although Maslow’s theory separates these needs, they aren’t watertight compartments. They can move up and down the priority list. Sometimes, accepting opportunities with a sense of duty can lead to different, positive consequences.
Absolutely, Shreya. It’s all about balancing our duties with virtues and staying true to our ethical principles.