Swadharma: What Is Swadharma In Bhagavad Gita
Last Updated on February 1, 2023
“What is my purpose?,” “why was I born?,” or “what should I do?” are some of the most common doubts in ones mind.
Mind’s incessant pursuit for knowledge has resulted in numerous technological advancements and cultural achievements, but it has also left many people with fundamental questions about their existence and the meaning of their lives unanswered.
But Lord Shri Krishna, answers these basic questions by introducing the concept of Swadharma to Arjuna on the battle field, as described in the Bhagavad Gita.
Swadharma In Bhagavad Gita
Shri Krishna introduces Swadharma in the 3rd, and 18th chapter of the Gita. He says:
श्रेयान्स्वधर्मो विगुण: परधर्मात्स्वनुष्ठितात् |
स्वधर्मे निधनं श्रेय: परधर्मो भयावह: || 3.35||
śhreyān swa-dharmo viguṇaḥ para-dharmāt sv-anuṣhṭhitāt
swa-dharme nidhanaṁ śhreyaḥ para-dharmo bhayāvahaḥ
This shloka from the chapter 3rd, verse 35 says, “It is far better to perform one’s natural prescribed duty, though tinged with faults, than to perform another’s prescribed duty, though perfectly. In fact, it is preferable to die in the discharge of one’s duty, than to follow the path of another, which is fraught with danger.”
On the other hand in the chapter 18th verse 47, Krishna says:
श्रेयान्स्वधर्मो विगुण: परधर्मात्स्वनुष्ठितात् |
स्वभावनियतं कर्म कुर्वन्नाप्नोति किल्बिषम् || 18.47||
śhreyān swa-dharmo viguṇaḥ para-dharmāt sv-anuṣhṭhitāt
svabhāva-niyataṁ karma kurvan nāpnoti kilbiṣham
This shloka translates to, “It is better to do one’s own dharma, even though imperfectly, than to do another’s dharma, even though perfectly. By doing one’s innate duties, a person does not incur sin.”
Swadharma in the Bhagavad Gita refers to an individual’s personal duty or responsibility in life. It is the path that one should follow based on their natural inclinations, abilities, and duties according to their social and religious roles. The concept of swadharma is central to the Bhagavad Gita, as it is seen as the key to living a fulfilling and meaningful life.
In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna explains to Arjuna the importance of following one’s swadharma, even in the face of adversity.
He advises Arjuna to perform his duty as a warrior and fight in the battlefield, rather than shirking his responsibilities and causing harm to society. Lord Krishna argues that it is better to perform one’s duty, even if it involves difficult or unpleasant tasks, rather than to act against one’s nature and cause harm.
The concept of swadharma is closely related to the idea of dharma, which refers to the moral and ethical principles that guide an individual’s actions and behavior. Dharma is often understood as a universal code of conduct that applies to all individuals, regardless of their social or religious roles.
However, swadharma takes this concept a step further by emphasizing the importance of each individual finding and following their own unique path in life, based on their own abilities and responsibilities.
In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna teaches that following one’s swadharma is essential for achieving inner peace and contentment.
He explains that by performing one’s duties with a sense of detachment and without seeking personal gain, an individual can find joy and fulfillment in life. On the other hand, those who act against their nature or try to pursue goals that are not in alignment with their swadharma will suffer from inner turmoil and unhappiness.
Benefits: Reasons Why You Should Practice Swa-Dharma
There is a twofold benefit when we carry out our swa-dharma . The music fits our mood perfectly. As a result, it is just as innate to our personalities like flying is to a bird, or painting is to an artist.
Second, because it’s relaxing to the brain, it’s easy to perform it without thinking, and that leaves mental bandwidth open for acts of devotion. Being authentically ourselves is always more fun than putting on an act.
“When we do something without authenticity, just to show off to another person, that is when we feel fear because such action is not genuine, it does not come from the heart. But when we do something that is authentic and from the heart, then there is no fear.”
SHRI SHRI
Yeah, because of high salaries and power, you may find other’s duty to be very lavish and attractive. But lord Krishna warns through the avove verses, that no matter how good they feel from afar, they will never make your mind satisfied which is built for something else you really love.
There’s a very beautiful example to explain this:
The Example:
To remain a frog is the swadharma of a frog, thus a frog that strives to blow itself up to become as big as a bull blasts itself to death. Or consider a fish that finds the idea of swimming in milk very appealing but dies after ultimately realising that it cannot survive outside of water,because of the fact that that it perfectly fits in water.
How One Can Find Their Swadharma?
Finding one’s swadharma can be a challenging and complex process, as it requires an individual to reflect on their own values, abilities, and goals. In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna advises individuals to seek guidance from a guru or spiritual teacher, as they can provide insight and direction on the path to finding one’s swadharma.
In addition to seeking guidance from a guru or spiritual teacher, there are several steps that individuals can take to find their swadharma:
- Reflect on your values and interests: Take some time to think about the things that are most important to you and the activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. This can help you identify your passions and values, which can be a key factor in finding your swadharma.
- Explore your strengths and abilities: Consider your natural talents and the things you excel at. Your swadharma may be closely tied to your strengths and abilities, as it should be something that comes naturally to you.
- Seek out new experiences and opportunities: Try new things and expose yourself to new experiences. This can help you discover your passions and interests, and may lead you to your swadharma.
- Seek guidance from others: Talk to trusted friends, family members, or mentors who can provide insight and guidance on your path to finding your swadharma.
- Reflect on your sense of purpose and meaning: Consider what gives your life meaning and purpose, and how you can use your unique abilities and talents to contribute to the world in a meaningful way.
Ultimately, finding one’s swadharma requires a combination of self-reflection and guidance from others. By taking the time to explore your values, interests, and abilities, and seeking guidance from trusted mentors and advisors, you can begin to clarify your personal path and find your swadharma.
References:
- Exploring Swadharma: An Overview, Research Article by Kritika Rastogi, 2018
- Swadharma: Article by Gold cast Hindu, 2012
- Swami Mukundananda, Holy Bhagavad Gita (Verses)
- P. Dutt: The Concept of Swadharma And Effect on Leadership, 2018
- Shri Shri, Art of Living, 2013
