dharma

In Hinduism, the consciousness of forming part of an ordered universe, and hence the moral duty of accepting one's station in life.

For Hindus, correct performance of dharma has a favourable effect on their karma (fate); this may enable them to be reborn to a higher caste or on a higher plane of existence, thus coming closer to the final goal of liberation from the cycle of reincarnation.

dharma

In Buddhism, teaching and scriptures of the Buddha, whose words and principles lead to enlightenment; also the ‘universal law’. The doctrine of the dharma is summed up in the Four Noble Truths: 1. all of existence is suffering (dukkha); 2. suffering begins with clinging desire (tanha); 3. there is an end to suffering in nirodha; 4. following the Eightfold Path will end suffering.

The Buddha taught his disciples not to be attached to what people told them, but to find their own way. Some Buddhists therefore say that the teachings are ultimately not the answer, bound as they are to a particular time and place, and that the truth of the dharma must be learnt as a personal experience. However, the Buddha's teachings show such breadth and depth that Buddhists revere him.