The Primal Purpose

The very first step to ensure peace and harmony to mankind is for each one observing the Dharma or code of conduct laid down for him in his own religion. If one holds his own faith and its essential principles mandatory, one can serve himself best and also serve others well. Dharma in this context means action in accordance with the traditions of the culture of the land. In every facet of the Dharma of this country, the ideal of world-peace and world-prosperity is immanent.

"Athaatho Karma Jijnaasa". "Now, for the inquiry into Activity" - thus begins the intellectual probe into the mystery of Karma, which in our Scriptures extends over vast fields. For example, to give away in charity and as gift is a very proper type of Karma; but, one must be aware that egoism can pollute it and make it improper. It is laid down that plentiful charity now will ensure happiness in a future life so that consideration of this advantage for oneself might well lead men to good karma. Even if many have no eye on the future, it can be asserted that most charity flows from egoistic motives. This is an all-too-evident a fact.

People feel proud that they have helped others. They are eager to be praised as beneficent and munificent. This attitude reveals their ignorance, Ajnana; it springs from non-awareness of actuality, Maya. In the Vedas and Sastras, the Rshis while elaborating on do's and don'ts, stress non-violence, compassion, Service to the world, Charity etc. as virtues to be acquired. Saint Vidyaranya named these as the very essence of Indian Wisdom.