Dharma vs Adharma in the Context of the Gita

In the Bhagavad Gita, one of the most important ancient texts of Hindu philosophy, the concepts of Dharma and Adharma play a central role. These two terms represent the moral and ethical principles that guide human actions, and they are crucial to understanding the teachings of the Gita.

What is Dharma?

Dharma is a complex and multifaceted concept that can be translated as “righteousness,” “duty,” or “moral law.” It refers to the ethical duties and responsibilities that each individual must follow in life to maintain order, harmony, and justice in the world. Dharma is not a fixed rule but is relative to each person’s role, age, gender, and stage in life. In simple terms, Dharma is the right way of living, acting in accordance with truth, justice, and the greater good.

In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna teaches Arjuna that one must perform their Dharma without attachment to the results. This is especially emphasized in the famous verse from the Gita:

“You have the right to work, but never to the fruit of work. Let not the fruit of action be your motive, nor let your attachment be to inaction.” (Gita 2.47)

Here, Krishna tells Arjuna that performing his duty (Dharma) as a warrior, without being attached to the outcome, will lead to spiritual growth.

What is Adharma?

Adharma, on the other hand, is the opposite of Dharma. It refers to actions, behaviors, and attitudes that are morally wrong or unjust. Adharma includes any act that goes against the natural order or violates moral and ethical principles. It leads to chaos, destruction, and suffering, both for individuals and society as a whole.

In the context of the Gita, Adharma is often associated with the violation of one’s duty, dishonesty, and selfishness. It includes actions that are driven by desire, greed, hatred, or ignorance. For instance, when people act only for their personal gain without considering the welfare of others, they are acting in Adharma.

Krishna explains to Arjuna that fighting against injustice is part of his Dharma. Arjuna’s hesitation to go into battle against the Kauravas, who are engaging in Adharma by oppressing the innocent, is an example of how fear or confusion can prevent a person from fulfilling their righteous duty.

Dharma vs Adharma in the Context of the Gita

The battle in the Mahabharata, which forms the backdrop of the Gita, is a literal and symbolic representation of the conflict between Dharma and Adharma. Arjuna, the hero, is initially reluctant to fight because the war involves killing relatives and friends. However, Krishna advises him that by fighting for justice and righteousness, Arjuna is fulfilling his Dharma as a warrior.

Krishna emphasizes that one must be steadfast in following Dharma, even when faced with difficult choices. He urges Arjuna to overcome his doubts and fight to establish peace, order, and justice in the world, even though it may involve great personal sacrifice.

Key Differences Between Dharma and Adharma

Moral Alignment

• Dharma is in alignment with truth, justice, and the cosmic order. It leads to peace, harmony, and spiritual fulfillment.
• Adharma is the opposite, it involves falsehood, injustice, and chaos, leading to suffering and destruction.

Duty vs Desire

• Dharma emphasizes performing one’s duty without attachment to personal desires or the fruits of actions.
• Adharma arises when actions are motivated solely by selfish desires and personal gain.

Long-term vs Short-term

• Dharma may sometimes require difficult or uncomfortable choices, but in the long run, it leads to the well-being of individuals and society.
• Adharma, while it may seem rewarding in the short term, ultimately causes harm and destruction.

Inner Peace vs Inner Conflict

• Following Dharma leads to inner peace, balance, and spiritual growth.
• Acting in Adharma creates inner turmoil, guilt, and discontentment.

Dharma in Modern Life

In today’s world, the concept of Dharma can be applied to various aspects of life. It’s not just about religion or spirituality, but also about being honest, fulfilling responsibilities, and contributing to the well-being of others. Whether it is in one’s family, workplace, or society at large, acting in accordance with Dharma means making decisions that are ethical and fair, and taking actions that promote the common good.

In contrast, Adharma is often seen in behaviours like dishonesty, exploitation, or selfishness. These actions may seem to offer short-term benefits, but they cause harm in the long run.

In the Bhagavad Gita, Dharma and Adharma are not just abstract philosophical concepts; they represent the choices we make in every moment of our lives. The Gita teaches us that to live a righteous life, we must act according to Dharma, following our duties and responsibilities without being swayed by selfish desires or fear. By doing so, we contribute to the greater good of society and achieve spiritual fulfilment. On the other hand, engaging in Adharma leads to suffering, chaos, and the breakdown of moral order. Thus, the Gita encourages us to recognize our inner duty, align ourselves with truth and righteousness, and strive to overcome the temptations of Adharma in order to live a peaceful and meaningful life.