Theory of Government in Ancient India (Post-Vedic) c5.28

c5.28

Synthesis is of the very essence of philosophy. Social inquiry soon reaches the stage when the need is felt of a universal principle to explain the entire scheme of things. Classical Europe fastened on the Law of Nature as a natural, universal law of reason implanted as a principle of life in all hearts. Early in India there arose a similar idea which runs through the whole of Indian philosophy and literature. In the Rigveda Dharma or Dharman means law or custom.¹ But the word soon gathered wider associations. Dharma is the truth; Dharma is morality. It is austerity, charity and purity. All religious exercise is Dharma. Dharma proceeds from the will of the Creator. It is the Law. It is the sustaining principle. It supports human society. None is above Dharma. It is binding on Brāhmaṇas and Kṣatriyas alike. Relying on Dharma, a weak man rules over stronger ones.