Notions of Dharma & Moksha from "summary" of Introducing Hinduism by Hillary P. Rodrigues
Dharma and Moksha are two of the essential concepts in Hinduism. Dharma is a body of moral and religious laws that govern the daily life of Hindus, while Moksha is the ultimate liberation from the cycle of rebirth. These concepts, along with their associated philosophies, are fundamental for understanding the Hindu way of life.- Dharma is an important concept in Hinduism that refers to an individual’s duty and moral obligations throughout their life. It operates at various levels from performing conventional duties and responsibilities, to pursuing spiritual ones such as Moksha or liberation from the cycle of death and rebirth.
- Moksha is a Hindu spiritual concept referring to the supreme liberation from suffering, pain and the cycle of birth and death. Hindus believe that through yoga, meditation and contemplation, people can attain Moksha and enlightenment.
- By living a meaningful and responsible life, the ultimate goal is to free oneself from sufferings caused by attachments and desires. This can lead to the transcendence of samsara which is the cycle of continuous birth and rebirth experienced in this world.
- Liberation from the worldly affairs implies that one has mastered their surna (sense) and karma (action). Further, it requires overcoming ignorance and following righteousness, yogasana-meditation and prayer, and establishing an inner connection or relationship with the Almighty.
