Concept
Svadharma: FAQ & Sources
स्वधर्मSvadharma is one's own duty, shaped by nature, role and stage of life. The Gita holds that one's own duty, even imperfectly done, is better than another's done well.
Frequently asked questions
What is svadharma?
One's own duty, fitted to one's nature, role and stage of life.
What does Gita 3.35 say?
One's own dharma, even imperfectly done, is better than another's dharma done well.
Is svadharma the same as dharma?
Dharma is the wider order and moral law; svadharma is the share of it that is yours to carry out.
Does svadharma mean one must follow birth-based duties?
The Gita links duty to nature and the gunas (18.41 to 18.44). Traditional readings tied it to social orders; many modern readers stress aptitude and role.
How does svadharma relate to nishkama karma?
It gives the field in which action is done without craving for its fruit.
Sources and further reading
- Bhagavad Gita, Chapters 2, 3 and 18
- Mahabharata
- Commentaries of Shankara and Ramanuja on the Gita
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