‘Sanatan Dharma’ is a term often used to describe Hinduism. It symbolizes an ancient and enduring way of life and belief system. It is not tied to any one founder, creed, or holy book, but is characterized by a continuous search for truth based on emerging experiences. ‘Sanatana Dharma’ encompasses a vast range of beliefs, practices, and philosophies within the Hindu tradition. The term ‘Sanatana Dharma’ is now synonymous with Hinduism, including its rituals, philosophy, and ancient spiritual traditions. However, this widespread use is relatively recent and has been promoted primarily by sections of society.
The meanings of words evolve, influenced by place, context, and reason. Sanatan Dharma represents the eternal, timeless, and immutable traditions that have developed across the landmass of Bharat-Khand (Indian subcontinent). These traditions became so integrated into this culture that the culture that blossomed, flourished, and developed in this geographical unit came to be known as Sanatan Dharma. It is not a religion like the Abrahamic religions but a way of life. The basis of this religion is Hinduism, although other streams like Buddhism and Jainism also made valuable contributions to it.
Even though some spiritual leaders address caste privilege, they rarely force individuals to confront their bigotry. There is a lack of critical examination of texts and practices that propagate caste discrimination. Responsibility for the actions of racist individuals is often not accepted by those who distance themselves from caste violence. In contemporary discussions, there is an ongoing debate between those who identify as progressive within Hinduism and those who align themselves with a more orthodox or conservative interpretation. The term ‘Sanatan Dharma’ has been at the center of this debate. The term ‘Sanatana Dharma’ is now synonymous with Hinduism, including its rituals, philosophy, and ancient spiritual traditions. However, this widespread use is relatively recent and has been promoted primarily by sections of society. The meanings of words evolve, influenced by place, context, and reason.
Critics of conservatism argue that the prefix ‘Sanatan’ has been used by some factions to emphasize the permanence of ancient textual principles, hence opposing change and reform within Hinduism. They see it as a hindrance to progress and inclusivity. Throughout history, various reform movements within Hinduism such as the Arya Samaj and the Ramakrishna Mission have sought to challenge traditional practices, including untouchability and idol worship. These reformers did not reject ‘Sanatan Dharma’, rather the aim was to improve and develop it.
Many consider caste to be a natural social system related to occupation, which is an integral part of Hinduism. Progressive individuals from these castes call for an end to caste-related violence, but not necessarily the caste system itself. They often grapple with the distinctions between varna, caste, and caste, ignoring historical and current realities. For them, criticism of Hinduism, when viewed in conjunction with their other criticisms, may be offensive.
While advocating reforms, Swami Dayanand Saraswati called ‘Vedic Dharma’ ‘Sanatan Nityadharma’, emphasizing the eternal and timeless nature of religion. Mahatma Gandhi, a proud ‘Sanatani’, played an important role in bringing women into the mainstream of Indian society, demonstrating that reform could be a part of ‘Sanatan Dharma’. Swami Vivekananda, before Sree Narayana Guru’s movement, had criticized the state of Hinduism in Kerala, but he did so from a perspective deeply rooted in ‘Sanatana Dharma’. He advocated mobility and reform within the religion.
A core tenet of Sanatana Dharma is the belief in the eternal nature of the soul and the concept of reincarnation (reincarnation or samsara). It believes that the soul is immortal and passes through the cycle of birth and death until attaining liberation (moksha). The basic concepts of Sanatana Dharma are not limited to Hinduism but also extend to Jainism and Buddhism. These traditions share a belief in the eternal soul and the cycle of rebirth, making “Sanatana Dharma” a unifying concept among them. It is important to clarify that Sanatana Dharma does not apply to religions such as Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, which do not share the belief in reincarnation and the eternal soul. These religions have different religious viewpoints and origins.
The term “Sanatana Dharma” gained prominence in the late 19th century. This change in usage and importance can be attributed to various historical and cultural factors of the time. The late 19th century saw the rise of reform movements led by missionaries and social reformers like the Brahmo Samaj and Arya Samaj. In response to these movements, “Sanatana Dharma” began to be used as a symbol of Hindu orthodoxy. ‘Sanatan Dharma’ represents the enduring and evolving nature of Hinduism, which is open to interpretation and reform.
Although its meaning and application may continue to be debated, it remains a fundamental aspect of Hindu belief and practice. Icons like Swami Vivekananda and Subramaniam Bharati have demonstrated that ‘Sanatana Dharma’ can accommodate reform and progress within its timeless framework. To protect ‘Sanatan Dharma’, people of the Hindu faith must engage in deep introspection and transformation. The call to recognize the impermanence and ever-changing nature of life applies to Hinduism as well. Cosmetic changes will not suffice; A philosophical reassessment is necessary. To protect the essence of ‘Sanatan Dharma’, there is a need for deep introspection and commitment to meaningful change.
Author is a freelance journalist and columnist, All India Radio. He can be mailed at goonjtachaupal@gmail.com
