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Duty vs Dharma: What's the difference? || Acharya Prashant, with O.P. Jindal University (2021)
5.2K views
4 years ago
Dharma
Kartavya
Shri Krishna
Truth
Bhagavad Gita
Responsibility
Surrender
Ignorance
Description

Acharya Prashant explains the distinction between 'Kartavya' (duty) and 'Dharma'. He states that when a person is not in direct touch with Krishna, who represents Brahman, Atman, or Truth, they need to be given duties and responsibilities. This is 'Kartavya'. Therefore, 'Kartavya' is only for those who do not know 'Dharma'. He describes 'Kartavya' as a "punishment for not understanding," meaning that because one is not wise enough to understand things on their own, a code of responsibility is provided, which is helpful in that state of ignorance. However, once a person develops the desire and intention to be in direct contact with the Truth, 'Kartavya' becomes an obstruction. Using the example of Arjun, he explains that when Arjun chooses to surrender to Krishna, ready to act on His advice even if it means going against his duties, Krishna instructs him to set aside all duties and responsibilities and come to Him alone. This signifies the transition from the realm of 'Kartavya' to that of 'Dharma'. Acharya Prashant clarifies that 'Kartavya' is not despicable; it is far superior to living by personal whims and fancies, which is the way of an animal. It is a higher principle given to man. However, 'Dharma' is even higher than 'Kartavya'. The problem, as seen with Arjun, arises when one allows their sense of 'Kartavya'—such as the duty not to fight relatives or to value blood relations over property—to become an obstacle in the path of 'Dharma'. Ultimately, the responsibility towards the Truth is 'Dharma', and it is the highest responsibility, superseding all others. This supreme responsibility is better described as a love for the Truth. All miscellaneous responsibilities, or 'Kartavya', should flow from this primary love. The speaker concludes that one must let 'Dharma' decide their 'Kartavya', rather than allowing 'Kartavya' to obstruct the path to 'Dharma'.