Three pillars of Dharma

The term Dharma is far deeper and more comprehensive than the ordinary sense in which it is often used. While most words convey a single meaning or, at best, a few related meanings, Dharma embraces the very essence of a thing or a person. According to the sastras, Dharma is that intrinsic nature or defining characteristic by which an object or a person is truly known.

It is this Dharma alone that elevates a person. External achievements, wealth, or status may bring temporary recognition, but only Dharma uplifts and sustains an individual in the long run, both in this world and beyond.

In a discourse, Sri Damodara Dikshitar explained that Dharma consists of three important aspects. These aspects together shape and preserve a person’s true nature, guiding thought, word, and deed in harmony with righteousness.

Dharma, as explained by the sastras, unfolds through three essential and interrelated aspects, all of which are exclusive to human beings.

Atma Guna: This refers to cultivating noble inner qualities that define a person’s true character. Patience, straightforwardness, grace, compassion, truthfulness, and a natural inclination to help others are some of the virtues that fall under Atma Guna. These qualities refine the mind and heart, and they form the moral foundation upon which all righteous conduct rests.

Anusthanam: Anusthanam denotes the disciplined observance of practices and rituals prescribed in the sastras. This includes regulated food habits, daily duties, and other ordained observances.

Aradhanam: Aradhanam signifies reverence and worship. Paying due respect to one’s father and mother, showing devotion and obedience to gurus and acharyas, and worshipping God with sincerity all come under this aspect.

Whenever these three pillars of Dharma — Atma Guna, Anusthanam and Aradhanam — decline or are neglected, disorder prevails in the world. At such times, the sastras declare that God Himself descends in an incarnation to restore them.