The Four Purusharthas: The Path to Happiness, Success and a Meaningful Life

by Héctor García, Francesc Miralles

In Hindu philosophy, there are four goals that all human beings strive for: virtue, prosperity, love and freedom. These are the four purusharthas.

Having helped people all over the world live longer with their book on the Japanese concept of ikigai, the authors are now on a mission to honour the balanced way of life they discovered in India. Inspiring and comforting, this book shares the ancient wisdom of the four purusharthas to help you awaken your creative potential, free yourself from stress and fear, and live with greater energy.

By using the four purusharthas to align yourself, you can unlock the key to a life full of inspiration, beauty, peace, and meaning.

Genres: Self Help, Spirituality

208 pages, Hardcover

Published January 1, 2024

About the author

I'm the author of several Japanese culture books: The Magic of Japan, Ikigai the Japanese Secret for a Long and Happy Life, The Book of Ichigo Ichie, Shinrinyoku, The Ikigai Journey and A Geek in Japan.

I LOVE reading and writing.

Autor de los libros sobre cultura japonesa: La Magia de Japón, Ikigai, Ichigo Ichie, Shinrinyoku, Un Geek en Japón.

http://amazon.com/author/hectorgarcia

Reviews

[Laura Stanhope · Rating 4 out of 5]

I bought this book whilst I was in India on an incredible trip with work. I enjoyed reading it when I got home - I dragged the reading of it out a little as it was reminding me so much of being there. A wonderful place with a very interesting history, culture and I find Hinduism a particularly interesting religion to read about.
It is a little book filled with lots of advice and thought provoking ideas and concepts. There’s definitely a few take away things in this book for me and I’m sure I’ll refer back to it in the future. I hope anyone else reading it enjoys it as much as I did.

[Prerna Shambhavee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just finished reading this book and I have to say, it was really eye-opening. The authors talk about the four goals that we should all be striving for in life: being a good person, being successful, loving and being loved, and being free. It sounds simple, but it's actually really profound.

As I was reading, I started to think about my own life and what's important to me. I realized that I've been focusing on some things that aren't really making me happy. The authors encouraged me to think about what I value most and what brings me joy. It was really helpful to take a step back and look at my life from a different perspective.

I loved how the authors shared stories and examples to illustrate their points. It made the book feel more relatable and accessible. I also appreciated how they offered practical advice on how to apply the principles of the four purusharthas to everyday life.

One of the things that really stuck with me was the idea that we all have the power to create positive change in our lives. It's not always easy, but it's possible. The authors showed me that by focusing on what's truly important, I can live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who's looking for a fresh perspective on life. It's a great reminder that we all have the power to create the life we want.

[Alok Mehta · Rating 2 out of 5]

The spiritually attractive cover design with Purushartha written in Devnagari script and a subtle yet unmissable hint that the book has been written by the authors of famous book 'Ikigai' was apparently not enough for me to actually like the book so much. It is not that the idea of book was not good but if you are an Indian, then in all probability you are already aware of it all more than what you had to read in those 200 odd pages. But that is not enough. The whole concept of Purushartha which is one of the most important part of Sanatan philosophy has been reduced to mere 1 or 2 pages of sketchy description without any clear resolution of conflicting 'Artha' Purusharth. The book is mostly beating around the bush and teaches more Budhhist philosophy and Rock music genre than Purushartha. My two stars are only because it was short enough to be finished in two days and the agony wasnt as stretched as experienced courtsey Ulysses.

[Amitabh Thakuria · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book has got the essence of making you understand who you are and what is your Dharma. The Four Purusharthas are the value on which your life should be based upon. It’s a book for healing your mind and makes you able to handle yourself.

[Daniela Restrepo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Es un libro bastante completo, te habla de la filosofía de la India en general, adentrándote en el país, sus costumbres, filosofía e ideas. Además de darte ideas para aplicarlo a tu vida

[Niki · Rating 5 out of 5]

There was a lot in this small book, will need to read it again when my mind is calmer

[Ashok Krishna · Rating 5 out of 5]

A basic introduction to Indian spirituality and wisdom, this little book packs quite a lot. An enjoyable read for anyone interested in spiritual pursuits.