Understanding the Purusharthas
The Purpose of Human Life
In Hindu philosophy, Purushartha refers to the essential ‘purposes’ or ‘goals’ of human life. The term itself combines two words: “Purusha”, meaning “human” or “soul,” and “Artha”, meaning “purpose” or “goal.” Together, they signify the aims or pursuits that guide our existence on earth.
Unlike other living beings, humans are considered capable of conscious growth and self-realization. So, why are we here as humans and not as animals, plants, or trees? Hindu philosophy offers guidance through four distinct goals, called the Purusharthas: Dharma (righteousness), Artha (wealth), Kama (desire), and Moksha (liberation). Each of these goals is seen as essential to a balanced, fulfilling life.
These principles have shaped both ancient and modern Indian culture, influencing how individuals and society interact, or rather, should interact and fulfill their purpose. The Purusharthas act as guiding pillars that harmonize individual behavior with broader social values, providing stability and unity.
The Four Purusharthas: Pathways to Fulfillment
The structure of Purusharthas has similarities to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs in psychology, where fundamental needs form the foundation, and self-actualization sits at the top. Similarly, the Hindu model sees Dharma as the base, supporting other pursuits and leading ultimately to Moksha, or the liberation of the soul. Below is an exploration of each Purushartha in greater detail.
1. Dharma: The Path of Righteousness
Dharma is a multifaceted concept that embodies ‘ethics’, ‘righteousness’, and ‘rules of conduct’. Its meanings vary based on context, and it can also denote the inherent qualities of things. For example:
- The dharma of ice is to freeze, of fire to burn, of a scorpion to sting, and of gold to be malleable. Here, dharma denotes the quality of the thing or being discussed.
For humans, Dharma means performing duties based on one’s role in society. It includes:
- Duty to Family and Society: Each person has obligations to their family and society. For instance, a son’s dharma is to care for his parents, a teacher’s is to educate, and a king’s is to protect his people.
- Moral and Social Conduct: It also encompasses correct behavior in rituals, moral actions, and social interactions. It serves as a moral compass, guiding people to make choices that are not just self-serving but contribute positively to the community.
- Role in Daily Life: For each role or stage of life—whether as a parent, student, or worker—Dharma defines the right actions that uphold both personal integrity and social welfare.
In essence, Dharma guides us toward living in harmony with others and fulfilling our responsibilities.
2. Artha: The Pursuit of Wealth and Prosperity
While the word ‘Artha’ literally implies “meaning” but in the context of Purusharthas, it refers to ‘wealth’ and ‘prosperity’. In Hindu philosophy, the acquisition of wealth and resources is not only permissible but necessary for sustaining oneself and supporting society. Building wealth is not viewed as inherently opposed to ethical principles or moral values. In fact, ethical wealth creation can align with personal integrity and social responsibility, showing that pursuing financial success can coexist with doing good and upholding strong moral standards.
- Basic Needs: Wealth provides for essential needs like food, clothing, and shelter. A career or profession is part of Artha, as they are means to earn and maintain economic stability.
- Foundation for Security: Artha provides the means for a stable and secure life, enabling individuals to fulfill their obligations.
- Social Responsibility: Creating wealth ethically is encouraged, as it not only supports personal needs but also allows for charity and societal contributions. However, when the pursuit of wealth turns into greed or involves unethical actions, it violates the principles of Dharma.
Kautilya (also known as Chanakya or Vishnu Gupta) was the prime minister in the court of Emperor Chandragupta Maurya founder of the of the Mauryan empire in India. In his ancient text ‘Artha Shastra’, he emphasizes that Artha supports both Dharma and Kama. He notes that poverty breeds vice, while prosperity fosters virtues and love. Hence wealth creation is an essential requirement of all humans. Artha encourages individuals to seek wealth responsibly, respecting the needs of the larger community.
When Artha is aligned with values, it supports individuals in achieving other Purusharthas, including Dharma and Kama.
3. Kama: The Pursuit of Desires and Enjoyment
Kama is often misunderstood as mere ‘lust’ or ‘sensuality’, but it actually encompasses all forms of desire and enjoyment. This encompasses not only sensual and aesthetic enjoyment but also the joy derived from relationships and creative expression.
- Emotional and Creative Desires: Appreciation for the arts, beauty, music, and poetry all fall under Kama.
- Fulfillment of Passions: The drive to create, explore, and enjoy life is essential for human happiness.
- Balanced Pursuit: This Purushartha encourages individuals to seek joy, but in a way that aligns with Dharma and does not harm others or disrupt social harmony.
- Importance of Enjoyment: Hindu philosophy recognizes the importance of happiness and emotional satisfaction as part of a complete life.
Kama represents life’s pleasures and the joy of fulfilling one’s desires within ethical boundaries. However, for desires to be healthy, they should align with Dharma and be fulfilled using ethically earned Artha. Desires that harm others or arise from envy are discouraged.
Ultimately, Kama is about experiencing life’s beauty while adhering to values.
4. Moksha: The Pursuit of Liberation
Moksha, meaning “freedom” or “liberation,” is the ultimate goal of man. It is freedom from attachments, desires, and the cycle of rebirth. It is the realization of the highest form of self-awareness and detachment from worldly desires.
- Non-Attachment: Achieving Moksha involves non-attachment to worldly possessions, despite acquiring and enjoying them.
- Liberation of the Soul: When a person attains Moksha, they transcend the cycle of birth and death, uniting with the Universal Soul, or “Brahman”. In Buddhism, a similar state is called Nirvana.
- Self-Actualization: Achieving Moksha is akin to self-actualization, where one transcends individual limitations and realizes their true nature.
Also called Parama-Purushartha or the highest goal, Moksha is the pinnacle of human existence. It is a state achieved by living according to Dharma, using Artha ethically, and enjoying Kama responsibly. In Hindu philosophy, Moksha signifies release from the cycle of reincarnation, allowing the soul to unite with the divine.
Applying the Purusharthas in Daily Life
Living according to the Purusharthas means balancing righteousness, wealth, and desires to ultimately achieve spiritual liberation. Here are practical ways to integrate these principles:
1. Practice Dharma:
- Fulfill your family and societal duties.
- Follow moral principles in daily actions, ensuring honesty and integrity.
2. Earn Artha Responsibly:
- Avoid unethical methods like corruption or deceit to acquire wealth or possessions.
- Use wealth not only for personal needs but also to uplift society. The sage Sukracharya, in the ‘Srimad Bhagavatam’, advises King Mahabali to divide wealth as follows:
- 1/5 for oneself and for personal needs.
- 1/5 for family and relatives.
- 1/5 saved for the future.
- 1/5 for charity and religious pursuits like Anna-Dhana (donating food), Go-Dhana (donating milch cows), Jnana-dana (donation of knowledge), Aushadha-dana (donation of medicine),
- 1/5 for self-growth and spiritual development like going on pilgrimage, attending satsangs etc.
3. Experience Kama Within Boundaries:
- Pursue desires that do not conflict with Dharma.
- Appreciate the beauty of life through the arts, nature, and personal passions.
4. Aim for Moksha:
- Practice detachment even as you engage with the world. Realize that ultimately nothing in this world really belongs to you. You cam into this world with nothing and you will leave with nothing. Whatever you acquire during this period is only temporary.
- Foster spiritual growth and mindfulness, aiming for unity with the Divine.
Conclusion: The Fourfold Path to Liberation
The Purusharthas outline a meaningful path for human life. By following Dharma, acquiring Artha ethically, enjoying Kama responsibly, and aspiring for Moksha, one can lead a balanced and fulfilling life.
These goals are not restrictive; they are a compass guiding us through life’s various stages and responsibilities, ultimately pointing toward spiritual freedom. In Hindu philosophy, the four Purusharthas are not just individual pursuits but foundational elements that integrate personal happiness with universal harmony, ensuring a life of purpose and fulfillment.
Embracing this fourfold path leads to Moksha, the liberation from rebirth, uniting the human soul with the Divine. As expressed in Hindu and Buddhist teachings alike, this is the profound, ultimate journey of the soul.