In the grand tapestry of existence, the journey of fulfilling one's responsibilities unfolds in concentric circles, starting from the self and expanding outwards to encompass the entire universe. This hierarchy is deeply embedded in the teachings of the Vedas, Puranas, and the lives of revered figures like Rama, Krishna, Shiva, and the prophesied Kalki. Let's explore this prioritization through philosophical insights, scriptural references, practical examples, and a detailed understanding of the principles of Dharma, Karma, and Kartavya.
Understanding Dharma, Karma, and Kartavya
Dharma
Definition: Dharma can be understood as the principle of cosmic order, righteousness, or duty. It encompasses the laws and duties that sustain the moral and social order.
Example: A doctor’s dharma involves saving lives, providing care to patients, and maintaining medical ethics. During the COVID-19 pandemic, doctors and healthcare workers globally upheld their dharma by working tirelessly to treat patients and curb the spread of the virus.
Karma
Definition: Karma refers to the law of cause and effect, where every action has consequences. It encompasses the deeds or actions performed by an individual.
Example: Helping others selflessly can result in positive karma. For instance, those who volunteered to deliver groceries and medicines to the elderly during lockdowns performed good karma, fostering community support and creating positive ripples in society.
Kartavya
Definition: Kartavya means duty or obligation. It signifies the responsibilities or tasks one must perform.
Example: An employee’s kartavya involves performing job duties diligently, meeting deadlines, and contributing to the success of the organization. During the remote work shift, employees who adapted quickly and maintained productivity upheld their kartavya to their employers and colleagues.
Prioritizing Responsibilities
1. Self
Quote: "One's own self is one's closest friend, and one’s own self is one’s enemy." - Bhagavad Gita 6.6
Reality: In every yuga (age), the foundation of all duties begins with the self. Self-care, self-discipline, and self-realization are essential. In today’s fast-paced world, taking time for self-improvement through meditation, education, and health is crucial. Modern psychology emphasizes self-care as vital for mental health, echoing the ancient wisdom of maintaining oneself to be capable of serving others.
Nature Example: Just as a tree must be strong and well-rooted to bear fruit and provide shelter, an individual must be strong and balanced to fulfill their duties effectively.
2. Family
Quote: "He who serves his family with love and compassion, serves the divine." - Mahabharata
Reality: The second ring of responsibility extends to the immediate family. Lord Rama exemplified this through his unwavering commitment to his parents, his wife Sita, and his brothers. In contemporary times, fulfilling family duties means providing emotional and financial support, ensuring the well-being and happiness of family members. This fosters a supportive environment that cultivates future generations' strength and virtue.
Nature Example: In the animal kingdom, many species exhibit strong familial bonds, such as elephants, who care for and protect their young and elders, illustrating the natural instinct to nurture and support family.
3. Full Family (Extended Family)
Quote: "The extended family is the larger vessel of human love and responsibility." - Vedas
Reality: Beyond the nuclear family, responsibilities extend to the extended family, including relatives and elders. This was evident in the life of Krishna, who, while growing up in Vrindavan, maintained close ties with his extended family and community, ensuring their well-being. In modern society, this translates to supporting extended family members in times of need, maintaining connections, and honoring traditions.
Nature Example: Wolves live and hunt in packs, supporting not just their immediate offspring but also other members of their extended family group, demonstrating collective responsibility.
4. Society
Quote: "The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others." - Mahatma Gandhi
Reality: Serving society is a vital responsibility. Krishna, as a statesman and charioteer in the Mahabharata, demonstrated the importance of social duty by guiding Arjuna and participating in the Kurukshetra war for the greater good. Today, this involves being an active and responsible citizen, participating in community service, and contributing to societal development and justice.
Nature Example: Bees work together to build and sustain their hive, each bee playing a role for the collective benefit, illustrating the importance of contributing to society.
5. World
Quote: "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" (The world is one family) - Maha Upanishad
Reality: The responsibility towards the world includes global awareness and actions that benefit humanity as a whole. This can be seen in efforts to combat climate change, promote global peace, and foster international cooperation. The prophesied Kalki avatar is expected to bring about a new era of global harmony and righteousness.
Nature Example: Migratory birds, such as the Arctic Tern, travel across the globe, symbolizing the interconnectedness of our world and the importance of thinking beyond local or national boundaries.
6. Universe
Quote: "The universe is the grand reflection of the self; in understanding it, one understands all." - Upanishads
Reality: The ultimate responsibility lies in understanding and maintaining harmony with the universe. Shiva, as the cosmic dancer, symbolizes the balance of creation and destruction, maintaining the order of the cosmos. In modern terms, this could be seen as contributing to scientific and spiritual understanding, protecting the environment, and fostering a deep connection with the cosmos.
Nature Example: The cycles of the moon and the stars influence tides and seasons, reminding us of our intrinsic connection to the cosmos and the importance of maintaining universal harmony.
Current Era Perspective
In the context of our current era, the principles of dharma, karma, and kartavya are more relevant than ever. The interconnectedness of our global society highlights the need to balance personal well-being with broader responsibilities. Here’s how these ancient principles can guide us today:
- Self: Prioritize mental health and well-being. Practices like mindfulness and meditation, as well as pursuing continuous learning and self-improvement, are crucial.
- Family: Strengthen family bonds through quality time, emotional support, and shared responsibilities. In modern times, this also means adapting to changing family dynamics and roles.
- Extended Family: Maintain connections with extended family, support them in times of need, and uphold traditions that foster unity and belonging.
- Society: Engage in community service, volunteerism, and active citizenship. Address social issues like inequality, injustice, and environmental degradation.
- World: Think globally. Support initiatives for climate action, global health, and peace. Promote cultural understanding and international cooperation.
- Universe: Foster a deep respect for nature and the cosmos. Support scientific endeavors that expand our understanding of the universe and promote sustainable practices that protect our planet.
Conclusion
By understanding and fulfilling these concentric rings of responsibilities, from self to universe, we align ourselves with the ancient wisdom that has guided humanity through the ages. Each level of responsibility enriches the other, creating a harmonious existence that benefits the individual, family, society, and ultimately, the cosmos. This holistic approach ensures that our actions are balanced, sustainable, and righteous, reflecting the eternal principles of dharma, karma, and kartavya.
