Event: Annual Devi Group Class Satsang – 2 (on Zoom)
Topic: Dharma
By: Sw. Swatmananda ji
Date: 15th July 2020
Attended by: Sevika Shruti Somani’s class
Swamiji explained that Dharma (the word ‘religion’ is inadequate) means to uphold, nourish, integrate, support, unite and the meaning at different levels are:
1. Highest- Consciousness, as it is the same in everyone/thing. It supports and is the uniting factor.
2. The Vedic knowledge that reveals the Consciousness, is Sanatana Dharma. The knowledge, subject, Guru shishya parampara are all eternal.
3. To Realize the Highest, through the Vedic knowledge the integration of the BMI is needed. Samanya Dharma (value system) which includes universal values of love, compassion, kindness etc. are to be followed.
4. Certain occasions call for special dharma which might seem contrary to samanya dharma, i.e. Vishesh dharma.
Kartavya is also our dharma, to not perform duties is adharma. Aapatta dharma is that followed in unusual, emergency situations.
5. Varnaashrama – That which is tune with our temperament and stage in life. Swadharma is a part of this.
6. Yugadharma- dharma adapting to changing times. The sadhana prescribed in Kaliyuga is naam japa (in Dvaapara, it was daana).
Swamiji ended by reminding us all to be proud of the dharma that we belong to and to serve it well.