Definition of dharma Dharma

/dɑˈɹmʌ/ - [darmu] - dhar•ma

We found 8 definitions of dharma from 4 different sources.

What does dharma mean?

WordNet

Noun
dharma - basic principles of the cosmos; also: an ancient sage in Hindu mythology worshipped as a god by some lower castes;

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Wiktionary

dharma (Noun)
The principle that orders the universe; one's conduct in conformity with such a principle.
dharma (Noun)
One's obligation in respect to one's position in society.
dharma (Noun)
The teachings of the Buddha as one's personal path to enlightenment.
dharma (Noun)
The teachings of the Buddha as a practice to be promulgated and taught.

Chambers DictionaryChamber's 20th Century Dictionary 📕

dharma
där′ma, n. the righteousness that underlies the law: the law. [Sans.]

Wikipedia

Dharma or Dhamma is part of many religions or spiritual belief systems that began in India. The oldest is Hinduism. Buddhism, Ayyavazhi, Jainism, and Sikhism also believe in the same idea. It means "the law" to spiritual growth of the believers.

In Buddhism.

In Buddhism, the word "Dharma" also means the very old teachings of the Buddha. So, when a person "studies Dharma," they are studying what the Buddha taught people.

To learn more, read: Dharma (Buddhism)

In Hinduism.

In Hinduism, dharma is the spiritual law for human beings. It is the way of goodness, truth and duty. For example, for a youth, a big part of dharma is to be a good student. Parents’ dharma is to raise and support their family. Teacher’s dharma is to teach and the dharma of the police to protect others. Each age brings new responsibilities, so dharma will change. It is everyone’s dharma to be honest, kind and religious, and to be a good citizen. Hindus believe that following dharma fulfills the highest purpose on earth. When people follow dharma, they feel good about themselves, and life is most rewarding.
Buddhism
Dharma in Buddhism means the teachings of the Buddha which lead to enlightenment.

What is called "Buddhism" in western countries is called buddha-dharma in eastern countries. This term simply means "Path of Awakening" and is thus a form of dharma.

The Dharma is one of the Three Jewels of Buddhism of which followers of Buddhism seek refuge in (what one relies on for his/her lasting happiness). The three jewels of Buddhism are the Buddha (mind's perfection of enlightenment), the Dharma (teachings and methods), and the Sangha (awakened beings who provide guidance and support).