Dharma

Dharma is the order (ṛta) that sustains the universe at all levels — physical, moral, social, and spiritual. In the ethical context, dharma is acting in accordance with this order. It includes universal duties (sāmānya-dharma) such as non-violence and truth, and specific duties (viśeṣa-dharma) according to one's role and stage of life. Following dharma purifies the mind and prepares it for knowledge.