Understanding Purushartha: The Fourfold Path to Human Goals
This Article is written by Swati Sharma a student at the Faculty of Law (Delhi University). If you also want to publish your article or case interpretations/summaries, send your work to niyamskanoon09@gmail.com.
The term Purushartha is derived from two Sanskrit words: Purusha meaning "Body" and Artha meaning "Goal" or "Object." In essence, Purushartha refers to the goals or objectives that a human being (the only living entity capable of such aspirations) strives to achieve during their lifetime.
In ancient Indian traditions, particularly within the Vedas, scriptures, and the rich Sanskrit literary tradition, four primary goals of human life have been identified. These goals are known as Chaturvarga or Purushartha, and they encompass:
- Dharma (Righteousness)
- Artha (Wealth)
- Kama (Desires)
- Moksha (Liberation)
Each of these goals holds a significant place in guiding the course of human existence, providing both a moral and practical framework for life. Their meanings and the paths to achieve them are further elucidated in texts like Manusmriti.
- Dharma
The Path of Righteousness Dharma signifies righteousness or moral law. It is the right course of action that an individual must follow in life to ensure progress and fulfillment. While individuals naturally seek progress, their actions must be in accordance with Dharma. Otherwise, they lead to Adharma (unrighteousness), which results in moral and spiritual decline.
The concept of progress is further divided into two categories:
- Abhyudaya: The progress an individual achieves within the limits of the universe, in alignment with natural laws and social norms.
- Nihsreyasa: The progress an individual makes by transcending the limitations of the material world and reaching a higher, spiritual state.
This duality in the pursuit of progress reflects the dynamic balance between worldly success and spiritual enlightenment.
2. Artha
The Pursuit of Wealth Artha, or wealth, is a crucial element of human life. Wealth, in this context, is not merely material possession but also encompasses the resources necessary for sustaining life and fulfilling one’s duties. As the famous scholar Chanakya stated, a wealthy person commands respect from society, and the pursuit of wealth is often essential for social standing. Similarly, the sage Shukracharya emphasized that while people often chase after wealth, wealth itself does not serve any individual—rather, it is an essential tool for achieving one’s goals.
In the Mahabharata, Bhishma Pitamaha acknowledges the power of wealth, stating that money can elevate a person, even one without virtues, to a place of respect. However, Manusmriti offers a more temperate perspective for Brahmins, advising that they should lead a life of austerity and simplicity, ensuring that their wealth is used only to meet their basic needs and that they store enough for three days of survival. It is essential to practice restraint in accumulating wealth and ensuring that it serves higher purposes rather than indulging in excess.
3. Kama:
The Fulfillment of Desires Kama refers to the desires and pleasures experienced through sensory experiences. The human body is designed to fulfill its needs through the senses—sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell. These senses, while fulfilling basic requirements, also lead to pleasures when interacting with the external world. For instance, the eyes were created to perceive, yet they delight in the beauty of art or nature; the ears enjoy the sounds of music; the tongue relishes flavors, and so on.
The desire for pleasure, or Kama, is considered natural and is an integral part of human life. However, it is essential that this pursuit is aligned with Dharma to avoid indulgence leading to negative consequences. The Shruti texts affirm that achieving pleasure is not inherently wrong, provided it is done in accordance with righteous living.
4. Moksha:
The Path to Liberation Moksha, often translated as liberation or emancipation, is the ultimate goal of human life. The term Moksha originates from the Sanskrit words Muc (to release) and Ktin (to sever), signifying the release of the soul from the bonds of the physical body and sensory experiences. According to the great poet and saint Tulsidas, even the most powerful monarch cannot escape the bonds of the material world through sheer willpower; once the destined time arrives, the soul departs from the body, unable to remain even for a moment longer.
Manu, in his Manusmriti, declares that the final goal of human existence is to attain Moksha. This liberation occurs when the soul transcends the confines of the physical body and sensory attachments, achieving ultimate bliss and unity with the divine.
Conclusion
Purushartha provides a comprehensive framework for human existence, offering a balanced approach to living. The pursuit of Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha guides individuals in their journey, helping them navigate the complexities of life while striving for both material and spiritual fulfillment. Through the thoughtful pursuit of these four goals, a person can achieve true harmony and satisfaction, fulfilling their role in the world and their ultimate purpose.
