Sanatan Dharma

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Sanatan Dharma

Sanatan Dharma refers to the "eternal laws of nature"

Highlights how one shouldn't be restricted by laws of Hinduism

Way of life based on the universal principles which are valid for all time and in all places

Universal principles of morality and moral behaviour

Concept is put forward as a profound understanding of the nature of Hinduism

Follows the eternal laws of nature

Based on shared values

Basis of equality - specifically spiritual matters

Could be challenged by the caste system

Comes from the heart rather than imposed from outside

Such as scriptures or rules/regulations

Hinduism highlights the importance of their duties (dharma) which take into account a person's spiritual identity

It would be the same for everyone

Considering that everyone must do their dharma

Everyone has an atman therefore everyone has duties

Also refers to moral behaviours which include; ahimsa, satya, asteya and sauca

Ahimsa - no harm or violence - applies to thoughts, words and deeds

Satya - truthfulness

Sauca - purity of mind and body

Everyone has a piece of God within them - by disobeying this purity you are mistreating Brahman and taking your life for granted

Asteya - no stealing

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Gandhi

Believes in recognising traditions but not being restricted by them

As long as you believe in Brahman, you can achieve Moksha - Hinduism isn't an exclusive religion

Just because religion is old, it doesn't mean all things are good

Religion has been passed down but have the bad aspects

Strong follower of ahimsa

Believes in protection of the cow because it can also lead to a wider understanding of Brahman

Believes in knowing scripture

But not feeling restricted by it

Believing in the avatars and what they teach - idol worship is a way of understanding Brahman

In Hinduism, Hindus are taught that all duties (dharma) depend on their life

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Practical Actions in a Hindu's Life

Always tell truth to others

For example never lying to people

Also remaining truthful to oneself as to stay focused on Brahman

Veganism/vegetarianism

Everything has an atman therefore they're not harming any living organism

Disconnecting oneself from the material world

Because they will not be attached to things so much they feel the need to steal

Try to live cleanly - not taking drugs or drinking

Therefore not mistreating their body which means they aren't mistreating Brahman

Only eating organic food and using organic products