Module 1

Hindu Philosophy :
Hindu philosophy is one of the most ancient and profound systems of thought in the
world. It originated in India thousands of years ago and has influenced not only
religious beliefs but also social life, culture, and values. Unlike some other
philosophies that rely only on reason, Hindu philosophy combines reasoning,
experience, and spiritual insight to understand the universe, human life, and the
ultimate reality.

This philosophy is not based on a single text or prophet but has developed through
sacred scriptures like the Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and the teachings of
various sages and philosophers.It emphasizes the idea of a Supreme Reality, Atman,
Samsara Karma and Moksha.

Basic Pillars of Hindu Philosophy :

Hindu philosophy is built upon a set of core beliefs or fundamental ideas that guide a
person’s life and spiritual journey.Let’s discuss each of them in detail:

Belief in Atman (the Soul) -

Hindu philosophy teaches that every living being has an eternal, unchanging, and
indestructible soul called Atman. Unlike the physical body, which is temporary and
perishable, the Atman is immortal. It is not born, nor does it die. It is believed to be a
part of the Supreme Reality or Brahman. The ultimate goal of human life is to
realize the true nature of this Atman and understand that it is one with Brahman. This
realization is what leads to spiritual liberation (Moksha).

Belief in Karma (Action and Consequences) -

Another essential pillar is the law of Karma, which means ‘action’ in Sanskrit.
According to this belief, every action performed by a person — whether physical,
mental, or verbal — has consequences. Good actions lead to positive results, while
bad actions bring suffering. These consequences might appear in the present life or in
future births. Thus, a person’s current situation is the result of past actions, and
present actions will shape the future. This encourages individuals to perform
righteous deeds and avoid wrong actions.

Belief in Rebirth (Samsara) -

Samsara is the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth that continues endlessly until a
person attains liberation. Hindu philosophy believes that the soul does not die with
the body but takes birth in a new body according to its Karma. This continuous cycle
is considered the cause of all human suffering because it keeps the soul trapped in
1
worldly attachments. The only way to escape Samsara is by gaining self-knowledge
and breaking free from worldly desires.

Belief in Moksha (Liberation) -

The ultimate aim of human life in Hindu philosophy is to achieve Moksha. Moksha
is liberation from the cycle of birth and death and merging the individual soul
(Atman) with the Supreme Reality (Brahman). When a person realizes their true
nature and detaches from material desires, they attain lasting peace and freedom from
suffering. Different schools of Hindu philosophy offer different paths to Moksha —
through knowledge (Jnana Yoga), devotion (Bhakti Yoga), action (Karma Yoga), or
meditation (Dhyana Yoga).

Belief in Dharma (Righteous Duty) -

Dharma refers to the moral, social, and religious duties that a person must follow in
life. It maintains balance in society and ensures that everyone performs their
responsibilities according to their age, occupation, position in society, and personal
abilities. Dharma is not rigid but flexible, adjusting according to circumstances. It
encourages people to be honest, kind, respectful, and fair in their dealings with
others.

Varna System :
The Varna system is an ancient social classification system mentioned in Hindu
religious texts like the Rigveda. The word ‘Varna’ means ‘color,’ but in this context,
it refers to a person’s nature, abilities, and duties. In early times, society was divided
into four broad groups (Varnas) based on the type of work people did and their
personal qualities. These Varnas were not originally based on birth but on merit,
skills, and character.

The four Varnas are:

1. Brahmins — They were priests, scholars, and teachers responsible for

performing religious rituals and preserving sacred knowledge.

2. Kshatriyas — They were warriors and rulers who protected the kingdom and
upheld justice.

3. Vaishyas — They were farmers, merchants, and traders who managed

agriculture, business, and trade.

4. Shudras — They were artisans, laborers, and service providers who did
essential work to support society.
Each Varna had its duties and responsibilities, and the system was meant to maintain
harmony and balance in society. It was believed that people’s duties should match
their talents and nature.
2
Caste System :
The caste system developed from the Varna system but became rigid and hereditary
over time. The Sanskrit word for caste is ‘Jati,’ which means birth group. In the caste
system, people are born into a specific social group or caste, and this caste decides
their profession, social status, and whom they can marry. Unlike the Varna system,
where a person’s role in society was based on their qualities and work, the caste
system made these roles fixed by birth.

There are thousands of castes (Jatis) in India, and each caste has its customs, rules,
and restrictions. Some castes were considered higher and enjoyed privileges, while
others were treated as lower and faced discrimination. The people considered outside
the Varna system were called ‘Untouchables’ and they were given the most menial
and impure jobs and were socially excluded.

The caste system led to social inequality, injustice, and a lack of social mobility.
Many social reformers like Mahatma Gandhi, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, and others
fought against caste-based discrimination. In modern India, the caste system has been
officially abolished, and the Indian Constitution guarantees equality for all citizens.

The Four Ashrams :

The Ashrama system is a unique social framework in Hindu philosophy that divides
human life into four stages. Each stage has its duties and responsibilities, allowing
individuals to experience life fully — as a student, householder, retiree, and finally, a
spiritual seeker. It ensures that individuals fulfill their personal, social, and spiritual
obligations at the right time in life.

Brahmacharya (Student Life) -

This is the foundational stage where an individual learns about life, knowledge,
values, and duties. In ancient times, students would live in Gurukuls (teacher’s
homes or forest schools), away from home and family, to develop self-discipline,
humility, and a love for learning. The emphasis was on acquiring knowledge of
scriptures, philosophy, arts, sciences, and warfare. The student was expected to
observe celibacy (Brahmacharya), remain detached from worldly pleasures, and
show devotion and respect to teachers and elders.

Grihastha (Householder Life) -

This is considered the most important Ashram because it sustains the other three.
After completing education, an individual enters family life by getting married,
raising children, and managing household responsibilities. The duties of a
householder include providing for family, performing religious rituals, maintaining
social relationships, and contributing to society’s welfare. Grihasthas are expected to

3
practice generosity, charity, hospitality, and uphold Dharma while balancing personal
desires and responsibilities.

Vanaprastha (Retired Life) -

After completing household responsibilities and when children become self-reliant, a

person gradually withdraws from active social life to focus on spiritual pursuits.
Traditionally, people would retreat to forests or hermitages for meditation, study, and
contemplation. It is a period of transition — reducing material attachments, preparing
for renunciation, and seeking inner peace. The person might continue to guide
younger generations and offer advice but without personal involvement in worldly
affairs.

Sannyasa (Renounced Life) -

The final stage involves complete renunciation of all material possessions, desires,
and social ties. A person in Sannyasadedicates themselves entirely to spiritual
enlightenment and seeks to attain Moksha (liberation). Sannyasis (renunciants) live
a simple, detached life, often wandering from place to place or residing in ashrams.
They follow strict disciplines like meditation, non-violence, celibacy, and
truthfulness.In ancient India, Sannyasis were highly respected as spiritual teachers
and role models.

Importance of Purusharthas in Hinduism :

Purusharthas are the four main aims or goals of human life in Hindu philosophy.
They provide a balanced approach to life by combining moral, material, emotional,
and spiritual needs. These goals guide a person to live a meaningful, ethical, and
fulfilling life.
Dharma (Righteous Duty) -

Dharma refers to performing moral and ethical duties toward oneself, family, society,
and the universe. It ensures social harmony, justice, and personal integrity. It covers
honesty, kindness, respect for elders, truthfulness, and care for the environment.
Dharma varies according to age, occupation, and circumstances but always focuses
on upholding goodness and righteousness.

Artha (Wealth and Prosperity) -

Artha involves earning wealth and acquiring material possessions necessary for a
comfortable life. It encourages individuals to work hard, manage resources wisely,
and support one’s family and society. However, it must be earned honestly and used
responsibly, without greed. Artha ensures economic stability and social welfare while
preparing for spiritual advancement.

Kama (Desires and Pleasures) -

4
Kama refers to enjoying life’s pleasures such as love, affection, beauty, art, music,
and companionship. Hindu philosophy acknowledges that desires are natural and
essential for a happy life. However, these pleasures should be pursued within the
limits of Dharma and Artha, without harming others or becoming obsessed. This
balanced enjoyment of life keeps the mind and body healthy and content.

Moksha (Liberation or Salvation) -

Moksha is the highest and final goal of life. It means freedom from the cycle of birth
and rebirth and merging the individual soul (Atman) with the Supreme Reality
(Brahman). It brings eternal peace, bliss, and freedom from suffering. Moksha is
achieved through self-realization, detachment from worldly desires, and spiritual
practices like meditation, devotion, and knowledge.