In the Bhagavad Gita, which is a sacred text of Hinduism and part of the Indian epic Mahabharata, the concept of "true religion" is discussed in the context of dharma, which can be translated as duty, righteousness, or the path of moral and ethical principles.
The Bhagavad Gita presents Lord Krishna's teachings to Arjuna, a warrior prince who is reluctant to fight in the great Kurukshetra War. Throughout the dialogue, Krishna imparts wisdom on various aspects of life and spirituality.
According to the Bhagavad Gita, true religion or dharma is not merely adhering to rituals, beliefs, or outward practices but is about understanding one's intrinsic nature, fulfilling one's duties, and living a life in alignment with the cosmic order (Rta or Rita).
Key aspects of true religion according to the Bhagavad Gita:
Self-Realization: Understanding one's true self, the immortal soul (Atman), and recognizing its connection with the eternal and universal spirit (Brahman).
Performing One's Duties (Swadharma): Each person has their own unique duties and responsibilities (swadharma) based on their nature, position, and role in society. One should perform their duties selflessly and without attachment to the results.
Detachment: Acting without attachment to the fruits of one's actions. This means doing one's duties without being motivated by personal gain, success, or failure.
Devotion and Surrender: The Gita emphasizes devotion (Bhakti) to God or the Supreme Being as a means to attain liberation and spiritual growth. Surrendering oneself to the divine will and seeking refuge in God is considered a way to transcend the cycle of birth and death (samsara).
Knowledge (Jnana): Cultivating wisdom and knowledge to understand the impermanence of the material world and the eternal nature of the soul.
Equanimity: Maintaining mental equanimity, not getting swayed by pleasure or pain, success or failure, and maintaining inner balance in all circumstances.
Nonviolence (Ahimsa): Avoiding harm to others physically, mentally, or emotionally, and promoting compassion and understanding.
The Bhagavad Gita emphasizes that there are different paths to realization and that individuals may resonate with different aspects of spirituality. Yet, the core principles of self-realization, duty, detachment, devotion, knowledge, equanimity, and nonviolence form the foundation of what can be considered as "true religion" according to the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita.