practice of Dharma

It is not easy for the Jivatma which experiences the world constantly through the senses, to perceive the dichotomy between the perishable body and the immortal self with consistent tenacity(while engaged in worldly affairs), though theoretically speaking, it accepts this as a fact.The crucial gap here is between knowing a fact and internalising it as a fundamental and true experience which alone can lead to Self realisatin.Knowing the true nature of the Atma and practising one's swadharma can lead to purification of the mind(Chitta Suddhi).Through sincere penance, constant meditation on this truth and scrupulous practice of Dharma, one can hpe to get salvation, say the scriptures.

Yudhishtira's commitment to Dharma manifests itself in his very personality.He thinks,speaks, acts and breathes Dharma and is never in a dilemma even when its subtleties are hazy. That is why he is able to face up to a volley of Yaksha's questions covering a wide turf and encompassing many interesting issues relevant to everyday living.The context in which he was forced to take up this test, with his lifeless brothers on the banks of the pond,certainly added to the pressure, but yudhistira's inherent righteous instinct guided him to provide the best answers to guide humanilty on the path of Dharma.

For example, a set of questions on the Sun what makes it rise, what goes around it, what causes it to set and how is it held firmly gets the answers respectively as the Brahman, the Vedas, Dharma and truth.

The literal interpretation sees the Sun as the life-giving source that owes its brillance to the creator.The Vedas keep company with the Sun during its daily course,vide the Taittiriya upanishad The galaxy is held in position by the laws of nature.

A deeper significance is got if one interprets the Sun as the inner self (Atma) within
each being;it is the knowledge of the scriptures that throws light on the nature and essence of the self.The celestials keep company with the Atma and the moral code of Dharma governs the life of the Jivatma.

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