What Is Sanatana Dharma?
By Dr. Frank Gaetano Morales

Sanatana Dharma is by its very essence a term that is devoid of sectarian leanings or ideological divisions. This is evident by the very term itself. The two words, "Sanatana Dharma", come from the ancient Sanskrit language. "Sanatana" is a Sanskrit word that denotes that which does not cease to be, that which is eternal. The word "Dharma" is a term that is only properly rendered into the English language with difficulty. Its approximate meaning is "Natural Law," or those principles of reality which are inherent in the very nature and design of the universe. Thus the term Sanatana Dharma can be roughly translated to mean "The Eternal Natural Way."

Since Sanatana Dharma is referring to those ways of being which are in concert with the Absolute, and are therefore axiomatic laws, this term is not referring to something which is open to alteration. Just as the laws of gravity, mathematics or logic are not open to sectarian debate or relative opinion (gravity, for example, is an inherent law of nature regardless of whether one believes in the law of gravity or not), similarly the subtle laws of God transcend all partisan concerns.

Also sometimes known as "Hinduism", Sanatana Dharma is the world's most ancient culture and the religion of almost one billion of the earth's inhabitants. Though the majority of followers are Indian (South Asian), Sanatana Dharma claims adherents from almost every nationality, race and ethnic group in the world, including an ever-increasing number of Americans. There are approximately 2 million followers in America, of which roughly half are from India and half (1 million) are non-Indian Americans (Hispanics, Caucasians, African-Americans, etc.). Statistics aside, Sanatana Dharma represents much more than just a religion; rather, it provides its followers with an entire way of life and with a coherent and rational view of reality.

Teachings of Sanatana Dharma

Followers of Sanatana Dharma believe in one, all-pervasive and all-loving Supreme Being. God is both transcendent and immanent in all things. God has unlimited names and attributes. Though worshiped in different ways in different religious and spiritual paths, there is only one God.

Every living being is spiritual in essence, though not all beings may be aware of this fact at present. All souls are spiritually evolving towards the eventual goal of union with God, and all will ultimately attain salvation, or moksha.

Personal spiritual development occurs through the closely related processes of karma and reincarnation. The individual soul undergoes the cycle of repeated birth and death - this is known as the wheel of samsara. During each earthly manifestation, an individual's karma (literally 'work' or 'deed') determines her future psycho-physical state. Every ethically good act performed by someone results, sooner or later, in happiness and spiritual development; whereas ethically evil actions end only in loss and sorrow. This philosophical world-view encourages Hindus to live happily, morally, consciously and humbly, following the path of the Eternal Natural Way.

The Path

The Dharmic way of life has many facets. Sanatana Dharma is a way of life that is deeply rooted in a sense of ethical concern. Among the many other virtues that Sanatana Dharma seeks to instill in its followers is the principle of non-violence (ahimsa) towards all beings, and compassion for all life. This sense of love and compassion is directed toward animals and the Earth, as well as all of our fellow human beings. As a result of these highly ethical standards, followers of Sanatana Dharma are vegetarians and strongly pro-environment. The personal goal of every follower of Sanatana Dharma is live life in such a way that she harms none and benefits all whom she encounters.

In addition, it is taught by Sanatana Dharma that the spirit of service and selfless work for others (known as the principle of seva) bring one's consciousness closer to that of God. Consequently, it is quite common to witness Hindus engaging in a myriad of charitable and philanthropic activities. For the followers of Sanatana Dharma, practical importance is also placed on studying the ancient Vedic scriptures (such as the famous Bhagavad Gita), temple worship (puja), ritual and personal purification. Yoga practice and Meditation are also essential aspects of Sanatana Dharma.

The Art of Reason

Perhaps one of the most beautiful aspects of this ancient spiritual path is its tolerance and acceptance of other people's cultures, religions and views. Followers of Sanatana Dharma believe that "Truth is one; though paths are many." Within the immensely nurturing framework of this philosophy is a tremendous spiritual freedom that encourages and provokes its followers to think, learn, explore and look inside themselves for the meaning of Sanatana Dharma and life itself. There is no room for fanaticism, fundamentalism or closed-mindedness anywhere in Sanatana Dharma. Thus, the teachings of Sanatana Dharma are universally applicable and open to all sincere seekers of Truth.

How Can I Learn More About Sanatana Dharma?

Glad you asked! Sanatana Dharma is a philosophy and religion that is open to all, regardless of one's race, nationality or ethnicity. For further information about Sanatana Dharma, please visit the web site Dharma Central at: www.dharmacentral.com To learn more about how to practice Sanatana Dharma, the spiritual dimensions of Yoga and meditation, or for private spiritual counseling, please contact Dr. Frank Morales. (608) 280-8375 E-mail: fmorales@dharmacentral.com .