DHARAM (DHARMA)
Dharam/ Dharma is derived from the word Dhri (to adopt); hence dharma means adopting (high spiritual, social and ethical qualities).
Dharam has a lot of shades of meaning. The word Dharam has been used for Righteousness as well as Divine law.
Dharam also means religion (faith, cult, sect) but this shade too is based upon the Divine Law.
Dharam is also used for justice, duty, moral law and spirit of truth etc.
It also means principles, which determine mam’s conduct and his sense of right and wrong.
In Sikhism, Dharam is a man’s duty to follow Divine Law. It includes remembering God, living a truthful life, serving humanity, and promoting justice:
Of all the religions, the best one is,
Remember God’s name, which is the pious-most action.
(Guru Granth Sahib, p.266)
There is one religion, let everyone know, it is truth.
Perfect in all ages is One.
Know it through the wisdom of Guru.
(Guru Granth Sahib, p.1188)
Those who do not know their being and self;
All their faith is blind and content-less.
(Guru Granth Sahib, p.1351)
Kabir (says): wherever there is knowledge, there is faith.
Wherever there is lie, there is sin;
Wherever there is greed, there is hunger.
Wherever there is mercy there is He.
(Guru Granth Sahib, p.1372)
Faith and action are blessed by perfect true Guru.
(Guru Granth Sahib, p.1397)
Also see: Religion.
(Dr Harjinder Singh Dilgeer)