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Duty vs Dharma: What's the difference? || Acharya Prashant, with O.P. Jindal University (2021)
Bharat
873 views
2 years ago
Dharma
Kartavya
Truth
Bhagavad Gita
Shri Krishna
Responsibility
Wisdom
Morality
Description

Acharya Prashant explains the distinction between duty and righteousness. He states that duty is intended for those who are not in direct contact with the Truth, such as Shri Krishna, Brahman, or the Self. When an individual lacks the wisdom to understand the right course of action, they are provided with a code of responsibilities and duties to guide their behavior. While duty is superior to living by animalistic whims and natural urges, it remains inferior to righteousness. Acharya Prashant further clarifies that righteousness is the ultimate responsibility towards the Truth. He notes that problems arise when one allows worldly duties to become obstacles to righteousness. Using the example of the Bhagavad Gita, he explains that Shri Krishna advised setting aside all conventional duties to surrender to the Truth. Therefore, one's love for the Truth should be the primary guide that determines all other responsibilities. Righteousness must always take precedence over social, familial, or moral obligations when they come into conflict.