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Brittany Cruz
Wijitha Bandara
HUMA-2300
17 October 2014
Religion vs. Dharma
Hinduism is the oldest most complex religion in existence today; however, debates
whether Hinduism can be considered a religion rather than Dharma is still discussed between
scholars. In order for outsiders to understand why Dharma is not another term for religion or why
Hinduism is indeed a religion these two terms must first be established. The distinction between
one another may be subtle yet, none the less it is there and must not be confused for another.
There are several ways to define religion, but not one definition defines the word
religion broad enough for all twenty-one dominant religions in the world to practice. As
researchers study the importance of religion in a particular culture it is clear that among the
various definitions there are commonalties within each of them. For example, James G. Frazer
states; religion is a propitiation or conciliation of powers superior to man which are believed to
direct and control the course of nature. Similarly, scholar Harriet Martineau states; "Religion is
the belief in an ever-living God, that is, in a Divine Mind and Will ruling the Universe and
holding moral relations with mankind." In other words, both men are describing Gods as a
powerful, supernatural, outside force; which should be feared thus followers should be obedient
to his commandments. Leading to scholars Friedrich Schleiermacher definition, "The essence of
religion consists in the feeling of absolute dependence."
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The three definitions included above share the common idea which includes all men
whom follow or do not follow a god are under control by the higher power he holds.
Schleiermacher and Frazers definitions complement each other perfectly; together their ideas
demonstrate the reliance men have upon God. Members of a religion ask for approval or a sign
before making any kind of commitment, which could in some cases result in man not taking
proper ownership in his/her life. These definitions created suggest that all courses such as;
natural disasters, coincidences, consequences are given from God in relation to peoples choices
whether it being positive or negative. This supports Schleiermacher claim further that humans
become solely dependent on scriptures or modern day prophets whom preach teachings in their
church, because God is everywhere, and controls the course of nature.
Dharma in Hinduism society is a way of life. People who participate in Hinduism view
Dharma as a structural guide which will lead them to live a prosperous life on earth and after life.
In order to succeed in this life you must be aware of your actions according to your level in the
cast system. In other words; the creation of Dharma existed to prevent chaos within in India.
Dharma Shastra literature emerged to help define the expectations and laws for each individual
cast, such as the Laws of Manu.
During this time period wars where being started and people of India began to socialize
among other cast members. To put an end to this behavior the Hindu religion put an emphasis on
Dharma. Dharma brought back the cosmic order and structure the country felt it needed.
Dharma was the foundation of their life style and Dharma Shastra where the beams helping
to support it while defining the values and behaviors in Hinduism. Similarly, to the modern
religion today; The Church Of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and the creation of the Book of
Mormon to help support and define their beliefs.
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The multiple components of the term Dharma consist of; providing structure of cosmic
order, the relation of things on earth to gods (sun, moon, starts, and fire) and rituals along with
sacrifices for the gods. We often describe Dharma in American society as a principle in
Hinduism religion, which if not followed you will be punished by a higher cast member o for not
respecting and performing your task in the universe.
Commonalities between Dharma and religion are that they both set standards for an
individual to live a fulfilling lifestyle. The two paths reassure people that they are living by
specific morals and values to benefit themselves and their community. The difference between
the two is that religion is ordained by God and consequences shall be preceded by God.
Whereas; Dharma expectations are established by the people and consequences are delivered by
the people. It is fair to call Hinduism a religion, because of its complexity with various Gods.
Rituals, prayers, sacrifices and obedience are all acts of being a serving member to God. Dharma
is not another term for religion due to it being a generalized way of life in the Indian society.
Dharma was created by the kings to organize chaos, much like the American government
creating the Bill of Rights to prevent chaos within our society.






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Bibliography
Cunningham, Lawrence S and Kelsey, John. The Sacred Quest: An Invination to the
Study of Religion, Fifth Edition. Publisher & Year: Pearson, New York: (June 28, 2009)
Frazer, James, Martineau, Harriet and Schleiermacher, Friedrich "Definitions of
Religion." Definitions of Religion. N.p., Web. 01 Sept. 2014.
Rodrigues, Hillary. Introducing Hinduism: The e Book, New York: Routledge, 2006.