Factors determining aims of Education- religion &dharma understanding the concept and relevance of the Purusharthas: (i) dharma, (ii) artha, (iii) kama & (iv) moksha
Back to: Educational Studies UGC NET – Unit 1
Introduction
Factors determining aims of Education- religion & dharma understanding the concept and relevance of the purusharthas: (i) dharma, (ii) artha, (iii) kama & (iv) moksha
Education is necessary for every individual in life. Education is a powerful tool of social change. It helps one in adopting acceptable behaviour and understanding their role in the society. One brings positive changes in themselves and the society by the education they receive. It is through education that an individual learns discipline and the basic etiquette needed to behave as a responsible citizen of the society. The necessary changes in the world are brought about through the existence of education.
The values, beliefs, culture, religion, etc that have been followed since generations are transmitted to the next through education.
Purushartha means “for the purpose of the Self”. There are four purusharthas which are dharma, artha, kama and moksha. These four are the Hinduism purpose of life to be achieved by the Hindus. The purusharthas help in living a balanced and meaningful life. It leads to a positive, healthy and good life. An individual can live a content and fulfilling life by practising Purushartha.
Understanding the concept and relevance of the purusharthas: (i) dharma, (ii) artha, (iii) kama & (iv) moksha
(i). Dharma (Righteousness)
Dharma means duty. It deals with the way one should live. It is concerned with duties, rights, virtues, laws, and conduct. Dharma brings harmony and peacefulness in the world. Being aware about one’s thoughts, words and actions with others and the environment comes under this.
(ii). Artha (wealth)
Artha means the pursuit of wealth. It deals with materialistic and monetary wealth. Career, wealth, financial security and economic prosperity all come under this which exists for one’s benefit. It makes living easy and comfortable with the existence of material objects.
(iii). Kama (desire)
Kama means love, want and pleasure. It deals with the pleasures, joys and enjoyment in life. It is the pleasure one gets by doing various activities which may either be related to sports, music, art, or sexual desire. This is tried to achieve with one’s love partner in life that helps to produce children.
(iv). Moksha (liberation)
Moksha is the final purushartha which means liberation. It is one’s true self. It signifies having freedom from samsara, which is the cycle of death and rebirth. self realization, and self knowledge is crucial for achieving Moksha.
These are the four Purusharthas in Hinduism. Each purushartha is considered essential in living a happy, content and fulfilling life according to Hinduism.
