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Samanya Dharma – Ethical Duties Common to All
The book addresses a much- needed but often taking for granted topic within the Hindu tradition- namely the timeless salience of universal values and attitudes for righteous living. It is a compendium of what constitutes universal values carefully culled from primary and secondary sources.
The book bridges the past and present by reinforcing the relevance of Samanya dharma in contemporary times.
The book bridges the past and present by reinforcing the relevance of Samanya dharma in contemporary times.
92 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2019
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July 19, 2021
Samanya Dharma by Nithin Sridhar
As I read the book, one of the first thoughts or feelings that I had was of gratitude to the author for having read the original Sanskrit texts and bringing the knowledge to us in this simple compilation. The book is small with just about 100 pages, but each page holds deep knowledge. There is a line in the preface, ‘Hinduism is nothing but the eternal principals of dharma’… which explains why so many of our ancient texts speak in depth about the meaning, definition and importance of dharma.
The author has explained everything in simple language, starting from the meaning of Dharma. ‘That which upholds is called as Dharma. Dharma upholds all beings’. And Samanya Dharma is explained as, ‘tenets of dharma common to all’.
As the reader moves ahead, one realizes just how deep and universal the concept of dharma is to Sanatan Dharma and the Hindu way of life. Numerous Upanishads, Purans, Smritis, Sutras discuss it minutely. It is of course also mentioned across the Vedas and the Bhagwad Gita. This is a must read book for all. This book alone if adopted by Indian parents, if not all parents across the world, as bedtime read for their children would be able to usher in a more humane and livable world. If all children are taught to live by such humane values, how can the world not become a better place?
Sharing some of the dharmic values from our texts which are explained in the book. Of course this small list does not do justice to the exhaustive knowledge and wisdom that one will receive when one reads the whole book.
Rigveda – one who eats alone without sharing food commits great adharma
Aitareya Aranyaka – never speak untruth, always show compassion
Atharvaveda – upholds charity and declares that one must gather with a hundred hands and distribute with a thousand
Taittiriya Upanishad – one must make it a vow of their lives to provide food and shelter to others
Manusmriti – A Soldier’s duty is to protect his subjects from hostile enemies
Shanti parva – truth is the highest dharma and untruth the highest adharma
Manusmriti – forbids all to throw urine, faeces, saliva, poisonous things into water bodies
Dakhsa Smriti - emphasizes equally the importance of a clean mind and body. The mind is afflicted with impurities like anger, lust, pride, greed, attachment and jealousy. It must be cleaned by following a dharmic life.
Shandilya Upanisad – only ethically earned money must be given as charity
Bhagwad Gita – ‘ In the case of a person who dwells on objects, there arises attachments. From attachment grown desire. From desire springs anger. From anger follows delusion; from delusion, failure of memory; from failure of memory, the loss of intellect, from loss of intellect, he perishes.’
In his little book, Nithin Sridhar has managed to explain numerous concepts like, Samanya dharma and social change, Samanya dharma and spirituality, Samanya Dharma and Bhakti and a lot more as well. This book is a must read for all, especially for those Hindus who are searching for true knowledge about their roots. I would have not even come to know such a lovely book existed if the Indic Book Club had not sent it to me. Immense gratitude to them for the same.
As an after thought one does feel extremely cheated... It does make one think, if one small book taught us so much, what else has been kept away from us about our glorious beautiful Sanatan Sabhayata? Everything. And it is now our duty to seek our truth. We owe it to our ancestors. We owe it to our Rishis.
(Also – the book is priced at an auspicious 108 Rs. I found that well thought out and cute)
As I read the book, one of the first thoughts or feelings that I had was of gratitude to the author for having read the original Sanskrit texts and bringing the knowledge to us in this simple compilation. The book is small with just about 100 pages, but each page holds deep knowledge. There is a line in the preface, ‘Hinduism is nothing but the eternal principals of dharma’… which explains why so many of our ancient texts speak in depth about the meaning, definition and importance of dharma.
The author has explained everything in simple language, starting from the meaning of Dharma. ‘That which upholds is called as Dharma. Dharma upholds all beings’. And Samanya Dharma is explained as, ‘tenets of dharma common to all’.
As the reader moves ahead, one realizes just how deep and universal the concept of dharma is to Sanatan Dharma and the Hindu way of life. Numerous Upanishads, Purans, Smritis, Sutras discuss it minutely. It is of course also mentioned across the Vedas and the Bhagwad Gita. This is a must read book for all. This book alone if adopted by Indian parents, if not all parents across the world, as bedtime read for their children would be able to usher in a more humane and livable world. If all children are taught to live by such humane values, how can the world not become a better place?
Sharing some of the dharmic values from our texts which are explained in the book. Of course this small list does not do justice to the exhaustive knowledge and wisdom that one will receive when one reads the whole book.
Rigveda – one who eats alone without sharing food commits great adharma
Aitareya Aranyaka – never speak untruth, always show compassion
Atharvaveda – upholds charity and declares that one must gather with a hundred hands and distribute with a thousand
Taittiriya Upanishad – one must make it a vow of their lives to provide food and shelter to others
Manusmriti – A Soldier’s duty is to protect his subjects from hostile enemies
Shanti parva – truth is the highest dharma and untruth the highest adharma
Manusmriti – forbids all to throw urine, faeces, saliva, poisonous things into water bodies
Dakhsa Smriti - emphasizes equally the importance of a clean mind and body. The mind is afflicted with impurities like anger, lust, pride, greed, attachment and jealousy. It must be cleaned by following a dharmic life.
Shandilya Upanisad – only ethically earned money must be given as charity
Bhagwad Gita – ‘ In the case of a person who dwells on objects, there arises attachments. From attachment grown desire. From desire springs anger. From anger follows delusion; from delusion, failure of memory; from failure of memory, the loss of intellect, from loss of intellect, he perishes.’
In his little book, Nithin Sridhar has managed to explain numerous concepts like, Samanya dharma and social change, Samanya dharma and spirituality, Samanya Dharma and Bhakti and a lot more as well. This book is a must read for all, especially for those Hindus who are searching for true knowledge about their roots. I would have not even come to know such a lovely book existed if the Indic Book Club had not sent it to me. Immense gratitude to them for the same.
As an after thought one does feel extremely cheated... It does make one think, if one small book taught us so much, what else has been kept away from us about our glorious beautiful Sanatan Sabhayata? Everything. And it is now our duty to seek our truth. We owe it to our ancestors. We owe it to our Rishis.
(Also – the book is priced at an auspicious 108 Rs. I found that well thought out and cute)
June 1, 2020
What is Dharma?
Is Dharma only for Hindu or it is a universal concept?
Whether is it same as religion?
Why Dharma is important in life?
How will life become in absence of Dharma?
Is modern moral erosion such as corruption, acid attack, violence etc. due to lack of practice of Dharma?
All these answers are given in the book.
Is Dharma only for Hindu or it is a universal concept?
Whether is it same as religion?
Why Dharma is important in life?
How will life become in absence of Dharma?
Is modern moral erosion such as corruption, acid attack, violence etc. due to lack of practice of Dharma?
All these answers are given in the book.
June 16, 2021
Thank you @indicacademy / Indic book club for sending me this copy.
𝗔𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗼𝗼𝘁 𝗰𝗮𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗲𝗺 𝗹𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗶𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗱, 𝘀𝗼 𝗮𝗹𝘀𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻.
सामान्य धर्मः , Ethical duties common to all by Nithin Sridhar.
Don’t go by the size of the book, it holds something very precious, Samanya dharma or the universal ethical duties common to everyone is foundational for understanding the Hindu notion of ethics and duty.
Dharma, A word which is so frequently used in our day to day conversations, but it also makes me wonder how little we know about the word. Everytime, I came across something (Same as this book) it gave me a new perspective to see things around.
This book is an effort to bring out the importance of Dharma in day to day life, Dharma which is further divided 1.सामान्य धर्मः (Samanya dharma) and 2. सामान्यधर्मः (Vishesha dharma), this book is all about the Samanya dharma and everything is explained in a very simple language. As the basics of Dharma is our scriptures, the author has explained the tenets of Dharma with the reference of our scriptures such as Smriti-s, Dharmasutras, Arthashastra, Itihasa-Purana.
𝑨𝒔 𝑺𝒉𝒓𝒊 𝑲𝒓𝒊𝒔𝒉𝒏𝒂 𝒔𝒂𝒊𝒅 "𝑰𝒈𝒏𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒑𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒄𝒓𝒊𝒑𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆𝒔, 𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒔 𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒊𝒎𝒑𝒖𝒍𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝒑𝒂𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏, 𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒐𝒆𝒔 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒂𝒊𝒏 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒇𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏, 𝒏𝒐𝒓 𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒑𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔, 𝒏𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒖𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒎𝒆 𝒈𝒐𝒂𝒍". (𝑩.𝑮 16.23)
Further, author has explained how सामान्य धर्मः can solve the modern days problem such as corruption, acid attack, violence etc. just by practicing Dharma in our daily life. Closing chapters of the book also explain the importance of सामान्य धर्मः in spirituality, Bhakti, Vedanta and yoga.
Highly recommended !! The book is a very important contribution towards a better society. Considering the subject ‘Samayan dharma’ is complicated yet vital, Author has explained everything in very easy language. Books like these can be gifted to friends and family. So buy the book and read it again and again.
𝗦𝗼 𝗛𝗶𝗻𝗱𝘂𝘀, 𝗪𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝘂𝗽 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸.
𝗔𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗼𝗼𝘁 𝗰𝗮𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗲𝗺 𝗹𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗶𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗱, 𝘀𝗼 𝗮𝗹𝘀𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻.
सामान्य धर्मः , Ethical duties common to all by Nithin Sridhar.
Don’t go by the size of the book, it holds something very precious, Samanya dharma or the universal ethical duties common to everyone is foundational for understanding the Hindu notion of ethics and duty.
Dharma, A word which is so frequently used in our day to day conversations, but it also makes me wonder how little we know about the word. Everytime, I came across something (Same as this book) it gave me a new perspective to see things around.
This book is an effort to bring out the importance of Dharma in day to day life, Dharma which is further divided 1.सामान्य धर्मः (Samanya dharma) and 2. सामान्यधर्मः (Vishesha dharma), this book is all about the Samanya dharma and everything is explained in a very simple language. As the basics of Dharma is our scriptures, the author has explained the tenets of Dharma with the reference of our scriptures such as Smriti-s, Dharmasutras, Arthashastra, Itihasa-Purana.
𝑨𝒔 𝑺𝒉𝒓𝒊 𝑲𝒓𝒊𝒔𝒉𝒏𝒂 𝒔𝒂𝒊𝒅 "𝑰𝒈𝒏𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒑𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒄𝒓𝒊𝒑𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆𝒔, 𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒔 𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒊𝒎𝒑𝒖𝒍𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝒑𝒂𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏, 𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒐𝒆𝒔 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒂𝒊𝒏 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒇𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏, 𝒏𝒐𝒓 𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒑𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔, 𝒏𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒖𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒎𝒆 𝒈𝒐𝒂𝒍". (𝑩.𝑮 16.23)
Further, author has explained how सामान्य धर्मः can solve the modern days problem such as corruption, acid attack, violence etc. just by practicing Dharma in our daily life. Closing chapters of the book also explain the importance of सामान्य धर्मः in spirituality, Bhakti, Vedanta and yoga.
Highly recommended !! The book is a very important contribution towards a better society. Considering the subject ‘Samayan dharma’ is complicated yet vital, Author has explained everything in very easy language. Books like these can be gifted to friends and family. So buy the book and read it again and again.
𝗦𝗼 𝗛𝗶𝗻𝗱𝘂𝘀, 𝗪𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝘂𝗽 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸.
December 30, 2021
Perfect book to enhance our dharmic way of living.
July 9, 2021
Since the technological advancements and development our nation Bharat has grown by leaps and bounds more so under the current regime of undoubtedly the best setup of central government we ever had. But then why so much pessimism in the air ?
Why do we hear atrocious cases of violences every now and then?
Is it due to lack of Dharma?
Is Dharma a way of living or is it indigenous to a particular person?
Do we often find people confusing it with religion?
Can we sustain without it?
All these answers one can find in this small yet highly impactful pocket book of sheer wisdom.
The book holds some very essential fundamentals to the invaluable ethical duties that is common to all. It also talks about its very source from which it stems. As the title indicates, its soul revolves around the Dharma and the various scriptures and Vedas from which it originated and why is it so highly important for our existence.
The little piece of knowledge is extremely well written and by maintaining brevity author has ensured that anyone and everyone who is just a beginner in terms of spirituality can also get the real essence of this vital contribution. The author has also explained that how virtues like Dharma when adopted fully alongwith practices like Yoga And Meditation can entirely change someone's life and also the only feasible solution to so much negativity around in terms of corruption,acid attacks and other such vices and inappropriate actions.
A must read for every person especially those who holds the baseless opinions that people who read scriptures are old school , forgetting the simple fact that they are written thousands of years ago and still encapsulates the solution to each and every problem of our lives. The book is a much needed offering to our society that has the capability to change someone's perspective and notion about things entirely.
Why do we hear atrocious cases of violences every now and then?
Is it due to lack of Dharma?
Is Dharma a way of living or is it indigenous to a particular person?
Do we often find people confusing it with religion?
Can we sustain without it?
All these answers one can find in this small yet highly impactful pocket book of sheer wisdom.
The book holds some very essential fundamentals to the invaluable ethical duties that is common to all. It also talks about its very source from which it stems. As the title indicates, its soul revolves around the Dharma and the various scriptures and Vedas from which it originated and why is it so highly important for our existence.
The little piece of knowledge is extremely well written and by maintaining brevity author has ensured that anyone and everyone who is just a beginner in terms of spirituality can also get the real essence of this vital contribution. The author has also explained that how virtues like Dharma when adopted fully alongwith practices like Yoga And Meditation can entirely change someone's life and also the only feasible solution to so much negativity around in terms of corruption,acid attacks and other such vices and inappropriate actions.
A must read for every person especially those who holds the baseless opinions that people who read scriptures are old school , forgetting the simple fact that they are written thousands of years ago and still encapsulates the solution to each and every problem of our lives. The book is a much needed offering to our society that has the capability to change someone's perspective and notion about things entirely.
June 27, 2021
Book: Samanya Dharma
Author: Nithin Shridhar
Ratings: 5/5 (Highly Recommended)
Samanya Dharma: Ethical Duties common to all. This book is must ready for Every Hindu.
Specially, the youth who nowadays are more influenced by the western ideologies and do not take have much knowledge about our Culture. This book will help them in purifying their thoughts. In Just 90 Pages, Nithin Shridhar Ji has beautifully explained about Dharma, it's classification, Samanya Dharma and it's elements that are common to everyone. He further told us how Samanaya Dharma can act as a solution to social issues like Corruption, Poverty, Theft etc. In the last chapter, we get to know about Bhakti, Vedanta and Yoga. Best thing I liked about this book is that the Author has taken a reference from our different scriptures likes Vedas, Smritis, Shrutis etc. Through this you get to know how these scriptures are the oceans of knowledge and we are unaware of it because we couldn't develop an interest to read them, to know about them. Our surrounding has made up resistant to these. We considers reading these as old thing and not a 'modern' thing to do. But, through this book you will get a glimpse of how these scriptures written centuries back has a solution of each and every modern day problem. You will definitely get a new perspective in your life. You will know the difference between right and wrong. You will get more attracted towards your Dharma. You will more fall in love with our culture
Author: Nithin Shridhar
Ratings: 5/5 (Highly Recommended)
Samanya Dharma: Ethical Duties common to all. This book is must ready for Every Hindu.
Specially, the youth who nowadays are more influenced by the western ideologies and do not take have much knowledge about our Culture. This book will help them in purifying their thoughts. In Just 90 Pages, Nithin Shridhar Ji has beautifully explained about Dharma, it's classification, Samanya Dharma and it's elements that are common to everyone. He further told us how Samanaya Dharma can act as a solution to social issues like Corruption, Poverty, Theft etc. In the last chapter, we get to know about Bhakti, Vedanta and Yoga. Best thing I liked about this book is that the Author has taken a reference from our different scriptures likes Vedas, Smritis, Shrutis etc. Through this you get to know how these scriptures are the oceans of knowledge and we are unaware of it because we couldn't develop an interest to read them, to know about them. Our surrounding has made up resistant to these. We considers reading these as old thing and not a 'modern' thing to do. But, through this book you will get a glimpse of how these scriptures written centuries back has a solution of each and every modern day problem. You will definitely get a new perspective in your life. You will know the difference between right and wrong. You will get more attracted towards your Dharma. You will more fall in love with our culture
January 12, 2021
The book is smaller then the content it hold. Precisely presented the knowledge from the vedic books and stories.
This book reflects on the deep Idea of Dharm. Its principles and modern validity. The book also motivate individual to lead a life under the framework of dharm.
Not a book to lead path of spirituality but a handy guide to change the perspective of how we live and do karma.
This book reflects on the deep Idea of Dharm. Its principles and modern validity. The book also motivate individual to lead a life under the framework of dharm.
Not a book to lead path of spirituality but a handy guide to change the perspective of how we live and do karma.
July 27, 2020
Nice book that covers the tenets of Samanya Dharma for every one. The covers the tenets of Samanay Dharma from a wide range of sources.
June 19, 2021
Completed reading one more book under #Indicbook Club 1000 reviewers' project. The book is a compendium of the universal and eternal values and duties common to all human beings, known as Samanya Dharma. Those have been culled from various sources of Hindu tradition, viz. the Shruti (Vedas), Smritis like Manu Smriti, Ithihasa- puranas like Mahabharata and Bhagavata Purana. Dharma, defined at individual level, is any activity that results in material happiness and spiritual benefit for an individual, without harming other people. Basically, as per the Hindu tradition, the Vedas are the means to understand what actions should be performed and what should be avoided. Samanya Dharma would refer to common tenets of dharma applicable to every person irrespective of his class, gender or station in life. There is also what is known as Visesha Dharma, which would refer to those duties and obligations unique to the temperament of the individual, depending on the time, class, and stage in his life. An individual personal dharma is thus a combination of Samanya dharma and Visesha dharma to be followed for reaching his goals in worldly life as also for ultimate liberation from worldly life. The book under review focuses on Samanya dharma principles. Ahimsa (non-injury), Satyam (speaking truth), Asteya (non-stealing), Shaucham (including avoidance of anger, greed, jealousy etc), Restraint of mind and sense organs, Sharing with others, Compassion, Forbearance, Straight forwardness, and Contentment are some of the virtues recommended in Hindu tradition. As human actions are the driving force behind most social problems, the author emphasizes the importance of following the common tenets of dharma for a peaceful society to flourish. No doubt, in the present world environment of poverty, corruption, terrorism, racism, crimes against women and children, and religious violence, these common tenets of righteousness are very relevant. The author has confined himself only to compilation of the values recommended by Hindu tradition. The writing style appears a little drab, since focus has been only on the listing out of the tenets and the sources. While most of these values are known to humanity and are recommended by all religions, some analysis as to why the values are followed more in the breach than in pursuit in the present-day world would have been more interesting. The book would be a good reference for those interested in the eternal values of righteousness propounded by Hinduism.
September 18, 2021
'Dharma' in present times, not just in India, but the world over (where yoga is a commodity) has been poorly understood. The colonial impact itself has been very harmful. Distancing indigenous folk from their ancestral wisdom and languages was one project. Demonizing their cultural practices and discrediting their knowledge systems with a supercession of rationality and science was another that also resulted in promoting a distorted translation of intrinsic values of Dharma, making indigenous people of that, distrustful of their own traditions.
Nithin Sridhar's 'Samanya Dharma' is a crisp and meticulously succinct book that explains what Universal Dharma is and how basic values of care for fellow beings and the environment is the core of almost every scripture of significance that India has given. The academic rigor that the author has engaged with for such a short book is indicative of his knowledge on the matter to explain and restaurant establish factual attributes from the texts with utmost simplicity.
With particular attention given to specific scriptures like the Bhagavad Gita, Manusmriti, the various Puranas, etc, the reader can see how tenets of Samanya Dharma have been present in the culture of the land since ancient times - hence Sanatana. The author further presents these tenets as integral to socio-econo-cultural change & spiritual evolution of society.
I was very impressed. I learnt some new things, In understood other things better.... and I also realised, with some sadness, how much rationality and western supremacy has harmed the understanding of Dharma, even in our own people, just from misunderstanding the verses and relying on adharmic actions of adharmic people who may have twisted the teachings to further their own motives.
This is a book, I'd urge everyone to read - for awareness, understanding, dispelling myths and/or simply for perspective. One needs to make the effort to study what they don't know fully and then with full understanding / with discernment, choose to agree and adopt the idea or disagree and walk away from it. Blindly discrediting with partial knowledge is harmful... This book gets my +1.
Nithin Sridhar's 'Samanya Dharma' is a crisp and meticulously succinct book that explains what Universal Dharma is and how basic values of care for fellow beings and the environment is the core of almost every scripture of significance that India has given. The academic rigor that the author has engaged with for such a short book is indicative of his knowledge on the matter to explain and restaurant establish factual attributes from the texts with utmost simplicity.
With particular attention given to specific scriptures like the Bhagavad Gita, Manusmriti, the various Puranas, etc, the reader can see how tenets of Samanya Dharma have been present in the culture of the land since ancient times - hence Sanatana. The author further presents these tenets as integral to socio-econo-cultural change & spiritual evolution of society.
I was very impressed. I learnt some new things, In understood other things better.... and I also realised, with some sadness, how much rationality and western supremacy has harmed the understanding of Dharma, even in our own people, just from misunderstanding the verses and relying on adharmic actions of adharmic people who may have twisted the teachings to further their own motives.
This is a book, I'd urge everyone to read - for awareness, understanding, dispelling myths and/or simply for perspective. One needs to make the effort to study what they don't know fully and then with full understanding / with discernment, choose to agree and adopt the idea or disagree and walk away from it. Blindly discrediting with partial knowledge is harmful... This book gets my +1.
August 25, 2021
“Samanya dharma – Ethical duties common to all “ by Nithin Sridhar is one of the most wonderful book I stumbled upon, which took a complex topic and explains it in simple English understandable by all. Don’t go by the size or page count of the book, it is highly rich in its content. I really enjoyed reading the book, through which I came to know a lot of new things about my dharma. The book not only enlists the samanya dharma but also connects it with solving social problems and spirituality.
That portion of the book, where the author very meticulously connects the samanya dharma as the solution to all social issues ,inner peace and moksha is what I liked the most. From now on this will be my go to book for anything on samanya dharma and it is a book to learn, relearn and cherish.
I highly recommend this book to everyone, the author has done a lot of research work and summarised beautifully the samanya dharma for everyone, which is the need of the hour and that to at a very very affordable price. Please do read and follow what is said in the book, I am pretty sure you wont regret the decision. Great work and thanks a lot Nithinji for this book.
That portion of the book, where the author very meticulously connects the samanya dharma as the solution to all social issues ,inner peace and moksha is what I liked the most. From now on this will be my go to book for anything on samanya dharma and it is a book to learn, relearn and cherish.
I highly recommend this book to everyone, the author has done a lot of research work and summarised beautifully the samanya dharma for everyone, which is the need of the hour and that to at a very very affordable price. Please do read and follow what is said in the book, I am pretty sure you wont regret the decision. Great work and thanks a lot Nithinji for this book.
July 12, 2021
Finished reading Samanya Dharma by Nithin Sridhar just now.
Small still a brief book that talks about Dharma, its importance in life . Basically, INtroduction to DHARMA using reference from a different text.
pages 92
Quality Good
Small still a brief book that talks about Dharma, its importance in life . Basically, INtroduction to DHARMA using reference from a different text.
pages 92
Quality Good
June 23, 2021
One good friend of mine shared his observation about me “You are becoming more and more “धार्मिक” (spiritual, righteous) day by day. Are you planning to become priest or what?”
I smiled (laughed inside) and replied, “I am happy that you noticed it as it instills faith in this saying:’ Possibilities for good changes never go unnoticed from pious eyesight.’ (And asking this question is first step for anyone to become धार्मिक) Is being धार्मिक a private social status that only priest and sant can acquire? Why did we make it exclusive for temple owners? I wonder, what is wrong in following धर्म (it doesn’t mean religion(s)) and becoming धार्मिक(not religious)? Don’t we aspire sustainable development, sustainable economy, and sustainable environment? How do you achieve sustainment and equilibrium? What is wrong in finding ways to achieve sustainment?
What is wrong if I spare some time out of earning body ‘s bread-butter and invest it for mind’s bread-butter? Isn’t it wise investment of scarce commodity i.e time? It is rich mind who gives body a unique identity. Why are we afraid to nurture mind by becoming little more spiritual while we happily spend tons of timelines of life to nurture body by becoming little more materialistic?
Isn’t healthy mind important for healthy living? Why should धर्म remain caged in religious beliefs, customs, and rituals? Why should धर्म remain suffocated in book? Why not re-make life by living based on धर्म? Understanding धर्म is considered shrillest adventure by my mind and I love to serve it. Being धार्मिक is fun, cool and I love to be called धार्मिक ! I wish and pray that soon धर्म reflects in all my कर्म! ”
My friend is not alone. Generations after generations, youth of Hindu society is purposefully alienated from their roots and ideal of living life. Need of the hour, in this world of distractions and lower attention span, is the precise introduction to the tenets of Sanatana dharma. For such friends of mine, Nithin Shridhar’s book “Samanya Dharma” is a great starting point to understand deeper meanings of dharma and in same breath, determine their own Samanya dharma, irrespective of age, gender, location.
Book begins with the goal of human birth i.e. attainment of four purushartha. In this section, Nithin explains the importance of four purushartha dharma, artha, kama, and moksha. This is beutiful way to open the subject of dharma where dharma is introduced as base of rest of three purushartha.
In next couple of sections, complexity of meaning of word “dharma” is simplified by appropriate Sastra references. One important aspect he has clarified is: difference among Rta, Satyam and Dharma! (My favourite part of the book!) Once the word is understood properly, Nithin takes us to the core of the subject i.e. Samanya dharma by classifying dharma in two broad aspects i.e. Samanya and Vishesha. This is when the book goes into the state of small rivulet to river flowing and connecting the banks, one being source of the knowledge and the other being the learner\reader of the book. From Smriti(s) to Itihasa, he has collected various flavors of Samanya dharma prescribed for us. He has taken care of point out some of the common tenets of Samanya Dharma across various sources, which helps reader to focus on most basic aspects of living dharmic life.
Book ends with lucid justification that how performing Samanya Dharma at individual level can help us solve some of the world problems as well as walk on the path of our own individual spiritual journey.
Go, read it and gift it to youth in your circle!
I smiled (laughed inside) and replied, “I am happy that you noticed it as it instills faith in this saying:’ Possibilities for good changes never go unnoticed from pious eyesight.’ (And asking this question is first step for anyone to become धार्मिक) Is being धार्मिक a private social status that only priest and sant can acquire? Why did we make it exclusive for temple owners? I wonder, what is wrong in following धर्म (it doesn’t mean religion(s)) and becoming धार्मिक(not religious)? Don’t we aspire sustainable development, sustainable economy, and sustainable environment? How do you achieve sustainment and equilibrium? What is wrong in finding ways to achieve sustainment?
What is wrong if I spare some time out of earning body ‘s bread-butter and invest it for mind’s bread-butter? Isn’t it wise investment of scarce commodity i.e time? It is rich mind who gives body a unique identity. Why are we afraid to nurture mind by becoming little more spiritual while we happily spend tons of timelines of life to nurture body by becoming little more materialistic?
Isn’t healthy mind important for healthy living? Why should धर्म remain caged in religious beliefs, customs, and rituals? Why should धर्म remain suffocated in book? Why not re-make life by living based on धर्म? Understanding धर्म is considered shrillest adventure by my mind and I love to serve it. Being धार्मिक is fun, cool and I love to be called धार्मिक ! I wish and pray that soon धर्म reflects in all my कर्म! ”
My friend is not alone. Generations after generations, youth of Hindu society is purposefully alienated from their roots and ideal of living life. Need of the hour, in this world of distractions and lower attention span, is the precise introduction to the tenets of Sanatana dharma. For such friends of mine, Nithin Shridhar’s book “Samanya Dharma” is a great starting point to understand deeper meanings of dharma and in same breath, determine their own Samanya dharma, irrespective of age, gender, location.
Book begins with the goal of human birth i.e. attainment of four purushartha. In this section, Nithin explains the importance of four purushartha dharma, artha, kama, and moksha. This is beutiful way to open the subject of dharma where dharma is introduced as base of rest of three purushartha.
In next couple of sections, complexity of meaning of word “dharma” is simplified by appropriate Sastra references. One important aspect he has clarified is: difference among Rta, Satyam and Dharma! (My favourite part of the book!) Once the word is understood properly, Nithin takes us to the core of the subject i.e. Samanya dharma by classifying dharma in two broad aspects i.e. Samanya and Vishesha. This is when the book goes into the state of small rivulet to river flowing and connecting the banks, one being source of the knowledge and the other being the learner\reader of the book. From Smriti(s) to Itihasa, he has collected various flavors of Samanya dharma prescribed for us. He has taken care of point out some of the common tenets of Samanya Dharma across various sources, which helps reader to focus on most basic aspects of living dharmic life.
Book ends with lucid justification that how performing Samanya Dharma at individual level can help us solve some of the world problems as well as walk on the path of our own individual spiritual journey.
Go, read it and gift it to youth in your circle!
July 10, 2021
While learning Sanskrit in high school one learns a Shubhashitani verse - ending in dashakam dharmalakshanam, 10 qualities of Dharma, from the Manusmriti. I did not pay so much attention to it except to memorise the verse.
What are the other Indic views on dharma for ordinary people like us?
In colloquial language, many of us use dharma and adharma casually, without understanding what that means. Dharma is not morality per se, but a set of guiding principles which are interrelated but provide a framework for the spiritual upliftment of man from his current state.
Samanya Dharma is an easy to read and small book authored by Nitin Sridhar which can be read in a few days, as it is written in an elegant and simple language.
The topic and title have always occupied the minds of Indians from time immemorial. What is dharma versus adharma, what are the attributes of dharma, and how can a society with men and women of different temperaments follow a common set of principles for a dharmik life.
The scriptures do it by listing a set of attributes of dharma. Manusmriti, Upanishads, Puranas, Itihasas each list a set of attributes of dharma. The author helps us to understand the common attributes between any two texts, and the extra attributes mentioned in certain tests. Regardless, non stealing, non anger, purity, truth are common themes occurring in all texts.
The author also shows how these principles are all interlinked and how the conformance to or violation of a dharmic principle the future of humanity and the current sordid state of world affairs can be immediately correlated.
Not only that, even spirituality including Yoga, Bhakti Yoga and other paths need dharmic actions as their foundation. It is all interrelated.
Given the small size of the book, this is not a how-to manual of putting in practice a dharmic principle such as Satyam.
There is a useful bibliography and the specific texts are given in romanised Sanskrit and also the reference in the text is provided and will be useful for those who want to study it deeply.
Overall, a delightful and engaging book on this important topic in these troubled times.
What are the other Indic views on dharma for ordinary people like us?
In colloquial language, many of us use dharma and adharma casually, without understanding what that means. Dharma is not morality per se, but a set of guiding principles which are interrelated but provide a framework for the spiritual upliftment of man from his current state.
Samanya Dharma is an easy to read and small book authored by Nitin Sridhar which can be read in a few days, as it is written in an elegant and simple language.
The topic and title have always occupied the minds of Indians from time immemorial. What is dharma versus adharma, what are the attributes of dharma, and how can a society with men and women of different temperaments follow a common set of principles for a dharmik life.
The scriptures do it by listing a set of attributes of dharma. Manusmriti, Upanishads, Puranas, Itihasas each list a set of attributes of dharma. The author helps us to understand the common attributes between any two texts, and the extra attributes mentioned in certain tests. Regardless, non stealing, non anger, purity, truth are common themes occurring in all texts.
The author also shows how these principles are all interlinked and how the conformance to or violation of a dharmic principle the future of humanity and the current sordid state of world affairs can be immediately correlated.
Not only that, even spirituality including Yoga, Bhakti Yoga and other paths need dharmic actions as their foundation. It is all interrelated.
Given the small size of the book, this is not a how-to manual of putting in practice a dharmic principle such as Satyam.
There is a useful bibliography and the specific texts are given in romanised Sanskrit and also the reference in the text is provided and will be useful for those who want to study it deeply.
Overall, a delightful and engaging book on this important topic in these troubled times.
June 24, 2021
धर्मो विश्वस्य जगतः प्रतिष्ठा लोके धर्मिष्ठं प्रजा उपसर्पन्ति
धर्मेण पापमदनुपति धर्मे सर्वं प्रतिष्ठितं तस्माद् धर्मं परमं वदन्ति।
Dharma is the support of whole cosmos. All people draw near a person who is fully devoted to Dharma. Through Dharma one removes all sins. Everything is supported by Dharma. Hence, Dharma is considered the Highest.
It is a small book but it holds so much content and so many references.
The books starts with the correct definition of phrase "Dharma, Arth, Kaam, Moksha". I have seen many people who just use this sentence to justify their deeds of Arth and Kaam in Adharmic way. So, I really liked it when Author told how we should use Dharma to decide whether an action is righteous or not.
After that, we see definition of Samanya Dharma according to different scriptures: (1) Shrutis, (2) Smiritis and Dharmasutras, (3) Itihasa Purana. We see what these scriptures say about how to live life in Dharmic way and how can we be prepared for ultimate goal: Moksha. Author has given many shlokas for these scripture so readers can read them as they are. He has given many references as well.
After that, we see how can we apply Samanya Dharma in social issues and how living life in Dharmic way will solve most of the problems in world including Murder, Corruption, Rape, Pollution etc.
Next we see how Dharma is related with Spirituality. How it is related to (1) Yoga, (2) Bhakti and (3) Vedanta. Again, there are references to various scriptures to justify what Author has written which I liked. Nowadays, we see many people who says we are not Dharmic but we are only Spiritual. So, these people should read this chapter.
If I had to change one thing in the book, then I would like to add Devanāgarī script for all Shlokas, along with IAST.
धर्मेण पापमदनुपति धर्मे सर्वं प्रतिष्ठितं तस्माद् धर्मं परमं वदन्ति।
Dharma is the support of whole cosmos. All people draw near a person who is fully devoted to Dharma. Through Dharma one removes all sins. Everything is supported by Dharma. Hence, Dharma is considered the Highest.
It is a small book but it holds so much content and so many references.
The books starts with the correct definition of phrase "Dharma, Arth, Kaam, Moksha". I have seen many people who just use this sentence to justify their deeds of Arth and Kaam in Adharmic way. So, I really liked it when Author told how we should use Dharma to decide whether an action is righteous or not.
After that, we see definition of Samanya Dharma according to different scriptures: (1) Shrutis, (2) Smiritis and Dharmasutras, (3) Itihasa Purana. We see what these scriptures say about how to live life in Dharmic way and how can we be prepared for ultimate goal: Moksha. Author has given many shlokas for these scripture so readers can read them as they are. He has given many references as well.
After that, we see how can we apply Samanya Dharma in social issues and how living life in Dharmic way will solve most of the problems in world including Murder, Corruption, Rape, Pollution etc.
Next we see how Dharma is related with Spirituality. How it is related to (1) Yoga, (2) Bhakti and (3) Vedanta. Again, there are references to various scriptures to justify what Author has written which I liked. Nowadays, we see many people who says we are not Dharmic but we are only Spiritual. So, these people should read this chapter.
If I had to change one thing in the book, then I would like to add Devanāgarī script for all Shlokas, along with IAST.
July 15, 2021
“Vedo.akhilo dharmamUlaM” (Vedas are the very root source of dharma)
That’s the core of this short and crisp book by Nithin Sridhar.
A very well researched book and precisely given how every speckled sources mentioned by the author gives almost or nearly similar definitions of Samanya Dharma. This also made me wonder how beautifully there existed so much of similarity between the diverse works of different people regarding a certain topic in one way or the other . That again reminds me of the saying “Ekam sat vipra bahudha vadanti”.
The author has tried his best to explain the undefinable word i.e. DHARMA. A practice of sAmAnya dharma and vishEsh dharma is much needed in contemporary times, where the former is a fundamental to latter. Now the question arises is the book only related to hindu audience? Answer is a big – NO. What a beautiful place this world would be if every person would not only read but try to implement the mentioned teachings in everyday life. For example- Truthfulness, compassion, self-control(Indriya-nigrah) etc. these are very basic things everyone should follow despite class, place, religion and time. So as the title of the book itself suggest, given in are the ethical duties common to all. Though references in it by the author are thousand years old but I found out the book equally relevant at the present times (Others may also feel the same after reading the section 5 – sAmAnya dharma and social issues).This basic book is a must read for the young minds, this could prove to be their guiding light at any point of life.
Happy Reading!
That’s the core of this short and crisp book by Nithin Sridhar.
A very well researched book and precisely given how every speckled sources mentioned by the author gives almost or nearly similar definitions of Samanya Dharma. This also made me wonder how beautifully there existed so much of similarity between the diverse works of different people regarding a certain topic in one way or the other . That again reminds me of the saying “Ekam sat vipra bahudha vadanti”.
The author has tried his best to explain the undefinable word i.e. DHARMA. A practice of sAmAnya dharma and vishEsh dharma is much needed in contemporary times, where the former is a fundamental to latter. Now the question arises is the book only related to hindu audience? Answer is a big – NO. What a beautiful place this world would be if every person would not only read but try to implement the mentioned teachings in everyday life. For example- Truthfulness, compassion, self-control(Indriya-nigrah) etc. these are very basic things everyone should follow despite class, place, religion and time. So as the title of the book itself suggest, given in are the ethical duties common to all. Though references in it by the author are thousand years old but I found out the book equally relevant at the present times (Others may also feel the same after reading the section 5 – sAmAnya dharma and social issues).This basic book is a must read for the young minds, this could prove to be their guiding light at any point of life.
Happy Reading!
July 20, 2021
Samanya Dharma: Ethical duties common to all, by Shri Nithin Sridhar provides enlightening insights into the concept of Dharma. In this comprehensive book, the author has beautifully described the various tenets of Dharma and how they can be adhered to. The principle of Chaturvidha purushartha including dharma, artha, kama and moksha has also been brilliantly articulated in the book.
It was very interesting to read about Dharma with reference to Mahabharata, Mahanarayana Upanishad, Taittiriya Upanishad, Brihadaranyaka Upanishad etc. The way in which the author dealt with the concept of Dharma as satya, and also the practice of Sanatana Dharma is highly commendable. How significant Dharma is in varying circumstances, and how it applies to everyone is also beautifully elucidated. Further insights are also provided from the perspective of numerous ancient texts including Manu Smriti, Vishnu Smriti, Arthashastra and Puranas among others. Towards the end of the book, credible insights on dealing with social issues and challenges by adhering to Samanya Dharma are mentioned. The author ends with a section on the importance of Samanya Dharma in spirituality, comprising of Yoga, bhakti, and Vedanta.
Altogether, Samanya Dharma is an enlightening read. It was also wonderful to note the price of the book - 108 - a number deeply associated with Indic traditions and spirituality!
It was very interesting to read about Dharma with reference to Mahabharata, Mahanarayana Upanishad, Taittiriya Upanishad, Brihadaranyaka Upanishad etc. The way in which the author dealt with the concept of Dharma as satya, and also the practice of Sanatana Dharma is highly commendable. How significant Dharma is in varying circumstances, and how it applies to everyone is also beautifully elucidated. Further insights are also provided from the perspective of numerous ancient texts including Manu Smriti, Vishnu Smriti, Arthashastra and Puranas among others. Towards the end of the book, credible insights on dealing with social issues and challenges by adhering to Samanya Dharma are mentioned. The author ends with a section on the importance of Samanya Dharma in spirituality, comprising of Yoga, bhakti, and Vedanta.
Altogether, Samanya Dharma is an enlightening read. It was also wonderful to note the price of the book - 108 - a number deeply associated with Indic traditions and spirituality!
August 7, 2021
This review was made possible because Indic Book Club provided a free copy of the book for review.
Never judge a book by its cover this saying completely applies to Samanya Dharma by Nithin Sridhar. It is a small book of fewer than 100 pages but the ideas discussed are life-changing. Throughout the length of the book, the author refers to lines from various Sanskrit texts and provides easy to understand the meaning. This book is six chapters long. The book begins with a discussion on what is dharma and how there is not a single word in English that may be sufficient to describe this term. In the second chapter, the author describes different types of dharma like Swadharma, Samanya dharma, and vishesh dharma. We then come to tenets of Samanya dharma as mentioned in various Hindu texts such as ManuSmriti, YajnavalkySmriti, VishnuSmriti, Vashista DharmaSutra, Arthsashtra, Ithas-Puran, Mahabharat, Vaman Puran, Bhagavat Puran, and Agni Puran. The number of tenets varies from 5 to 30 based on different texts and many such as Satya, Ahinsa, Cleanliness, etc are common across the texts. The next two chapters of the book discuss current issues faced by the humanity and how we can find solutions to these issues in the tenets of Samanya Dharma.
Never judge a book by its cover this saying completely applies to Samanya Dharma by Nithin Sridhar. It is a small book of fewer than 100 pages but the ideas discussed are life-changing. Throughout the length of the book, the author refers to lines from various Sanskrit texts and provides easy to understand the meaning. This book is six chapters long. The book begins with a discussion on what is dharma and how there is not a single word in English that may be sufficient to describe this term. In the second chapter, the author describes different types of dharma like Swadharma, Samanya dharma, and vishesh dharma. We then come to tenets of Samanya dharma as mentioned in various Hindu texts such as ManuSmriti, YajnavalkySmriti, VishnuSmriti, Vashista DharmaSutra, Arthsashtra, Ithas-Puran, Mahabharat, Vaman Puran, Bhagavat Puran, and Agni Puran. The number of tenets varies from 5 to 30 based on different texts and many such as Satya, Ahinsa, Cleanliness, etc are common across the texts. The next two chapters of the book discuss current issues faced by the humanity and how we can find solutions to these issues in the tenets of Samanya Dharma.
August 10, 2021
This book Samanya Dharma is a little treasure house for humanity. We always hear about xyz Dharma so normally people think of Dharma as synonymous to Religion but it is not the case. Dharma is one that can be followed and inculcated in life.
It systematically deals with the duties and ethics for human beings to form a peaceful and harmonious society. It quotes multiple shashtras like vedas, manusmriti, upnishads, Gita and several other books to validate the points being made. This precise but comprehensive document is need of the current human state if it wishes to live with peace and contentment. Nithin Sridhar has made it an easy and engaging read all the while imparting the in-depth gyan hidden in the holy books. It encompasses every aspect of Common Tenants and its relevance in this society.
The thing i liked the most about this book is that it explains the importance of Samanya Dharma in Yoga, Bhakti, social issues, and attainment of Moksha.
It systematically deals with the duties and ethics for human beings to form a peaceful and harmonious society. It quotes multiple shashtras like vedas, manusmriti, upnishads, Gita and several other books to validate the points being made. This precise but comprehensive document is need of the current human state if it wishes to live with peace and contentment. Nithin Sridhar has made it an easy and engaging read all the while imparting the in-depth gyan hidden in the holy books. It encompasses every aspect of Common Tenants and its relevance in this society.
The thing i liked the most about this book is that it explains the importance of Samanya Dharma in Yoga, Bhakti, social issues, and attainment of Moksha.
September 3, 2023
“Satyaṁ brūyāt – priyaṁ brūyāt- na brūyāt satyaṁ apriyam I
priyaṁ ca nanr̥taṁ brūyāt – ēṣa dharmaḥ sanātanaḥ” II
Speak truth, speak pleasantly. Do not speak unpleasant truth. Even if unpleasant do not speak untruth, This is Eternal Law.
Manu Smriti
Since the topic of “Eradication of Dharma” and equating it to mosquitoes and malaria is going on by not so worth spitting on face people. One can say Dharma of all the spiritual pathways is here to stay and thrive for generations to come.
A Interesting read on Samanya Dharma and it’s tenets why it is important to follow the Purushartha for attaining liberation or Moksha from Atma to Paramatma.
priyaṁ ca nanr̥taṁ brūyāt – ēṣa dharmaḥ sanātanaḥ” II
Speak truth, speak pleasantly. Do not speak unpleasant truth. Even if unpleasant do not speak untruth, This is Eternal Law.
Manu Smriti
Since the topic of “Eradication of Dharma” and equating it to mosquitoes and malaria is going on by not so worth spitting on face people. One can say Dharma of all the spiritual pathways is here to stay and thrive for generations to come.
A Interesting read on Samanya Dharma and it’s tenets why it is important to follow the Purushartha for attaining liberation or Moksha from Atma to Paramatma.
July 3, 2022
Inspiring
This beautiful book on dharma, my favourite concept by which one should live, has inspired me to continue living a life that is guided by dharma.
This beautiful book on dharma, my favourite concept by which one should live, has inspired me to continue living a life that is guided by dharma.
October 9, 2021
Samanya Dharma by Nithin Sridhar is one of finest book I have read to understand Dharma. This Book explains the meaning of Dharma(Vishesha & Samanya) in very Succinct form which forms the foundation to explain the Samanya Dharma in detail in later part of the book. Author provides various Shruti and Smiriti Paramanas to make his point i.e. Samnaya Dharma is very important in pursuit of Purusharta irrespective of person’s Varna, Ashrama or Spiritual path one chooses i.e. Yoga, Bhakti or Jnana .
This books enumerates tenets of Samanya Dharma as per Shruti and Smiritis in Detail. One point I want to highlight here is the correct understanding of these tenets is very important for example my understanding of tenet Ahimsa is improved i.e. Ahimsa is not 100% absence of violence , Violence as per Dharma and to protect Dharma is permissible and a duty.
Author also beautifully explains how many of the Social issues society is facing such as poverty, terrorism, corruption , violence against women and children and environmental challenges can be minimized if people follow Samanya Dharma.
Overall this is a very good book for people who are new or want a quick refresher to understand Dharma and mainly Samanya Dharma and its use for an individual and society as a whole to have a peaceful and prosperous environment.
This books enumerates tenets of Samanya Dharma as per Shruti and Smiritis in Detail. One point I want to highlight here is the correct understanding of these tenets is very important for example my understanding of tenet Ahimsa is improved i.e. Ahimsa is not 100% absence of violence , Violence as per Dharma and to protect Dharma is permissible and a duty.
Author also beautifully explains how many of the Social issues society is facing such as poverty, terrorism, corruption , violence against women and children and environmental challenges can be minimized if people follow Samanya Dharma.
Overall this is a very good book for people who are new or want a quick refresher to understand Dharma and mainly Samanya Dharma and its use for an individual and society as a whole to have a peaceful and prosperous environment.
November 3, 2021
If short writings can do wonders this book, is it. The book “Samanya Dharma” is one of a kind. It is a small book of less than 100 pages but it worth is much more than the paper it is printed on. A BOOK PER EXCELLENCE.
Dharma is a complex word. It has no literal meaning nor it can be express in any other language. Its meaning changes with its context and on who it is applied to.
The book takes the topic of samanya dharma and tries to simplify it for the masses. The author explains “Samanya Dharma” with context to everyone, social issues and spirituality by referencing with the Maha Puranas, Manu Smriti, Upanishads and Mahabharata. This has led to a better understanding of the term “Samanya Dharma”. This idea of references gives a wonderful window to the vast knowledge held by our scriptures. Further the mention of slokas in the book to explain samanya dharma provides an instant connection to the scriptures and a better understanding of samanya dharma.
This book is a classic example of how a complex topic should be approached and then written all the while keeping the spiritual essence intact. Also, making it easier for the readers to understand. The language used is very basic and the explanations provided are precise. This book is a must read.
Dharma is a complex word. It has no literal meaning nor it can be express in any other language. Its meaning changes with its context and on who it is applied to.
The book takes the topic of samanya dharma and tries to simplify it for the masses. The author explains “Samanya Dharma” with context to everyone, social issues and spirituality by referencing with the Maha Puranas, Manu Smriti, Upanishads and Mahabharata. This has led to a better understanding of the term “Samanya Dharma”. This idea of references gives a wonderful window to the vast knowledge held by our scriptures. Further the mention of slokas in the book to explain samanya dharma provides an instant connection to the scriptures and a better understanding of samanya dharma.
This book is a classic example of how a complex topic should be approached and then written all the while keeping the spiritual essence intact. Also, making it easier for the readers to understand. The language used is very basic and the explanations provided are precise. This book is a must read.
July 17, 2021
Firstly, thank you to Indic Book Club for blessing me with this book. Secondly, I have never come across a book as clear, comprehensible and simple as this one, especially on a topic this complicated.
The author, Mr. Nitin Sridhar, through his discussion on various topics portrays in simple English and with immense clarity his understanding of the concept of Dharma.
The book is by far the one that I will be definitely be re-reading. The essence and the core values of our scriptures has been expounded very well. It is a must-read. In today’s day and age, when most of us seem to be at a loss for not being able to discriminate right from wrong, this book fills that gap.
Good job at producing this work. Waiting for more from this author.
The author, Mr. Nitin Sridhar, through his discussion on various topics portrays in simple English and with immense clarity his understanding of the concept of Dharma.
The book is by far the one that I will be definitely be re-reading. The essence and the core values of our scriptures has been expounded very well. It is a must-read. In today’s day and age, when most of us seem to be at a loss for not being able to discriminate right from wrong, this book fills that gap.
Good job at producing this work. Waiting for more from this author.
December 29, 2021
6️⃣ out of 🔟 seekers can identify with 'Samanya Dharma : Ethical Duties common to All' 📓
Defining Dharma has always been a tough task, especially with respect to the Sanatan scriptures that relate it to role, responsibility and duty; unlike the prevalent notion of ways of worship. As rightly pointed out in this book, Dharma means the right thing to do for each individual and in each situation.
Drawing out the common ethical conduct that applies to all, is certainly a commendable job. However, the book could be a little more considerate about the readers who are unaware of this subject and the typical terminologies around it. It seems to be overshadowed by the references that could better be a part of the footnotes or appendix. There could be a lot more deliberation around the practical situations and challenges in following the Samanya Dharma.
Visit and follow @pustak_darpan for more such comprehensive and objective Book Reviews in Hindi & English 👍
#pustak_darpan #book #review #guide #sanatan #dharm #common #learn #responsibility #ancient #knowledge #scriptures
Defining Dharma has always been a tough task, especially with respect to the Sanatan scriptures that relate it to role, responsibility and duty; unlike the prevalent notion of ways of worship. As rightly pointed out in this book, Dharma means the right thing to do for each individual and in each situation.
Drawing out the common ethical conduct that applies to all, is certainly a commendable job. However, the book could be a little more considerate about the readers who are unaware of this subject and the typical terminologies around it. It seems to be overshadowed by the references that could better be a part of the footnotes or appendix. There could be a lot more deliberation around the practical situations and challenges in following the Samanya Dharma.
Visit and follow @pustak_darpan for more such comprehensive and objective Book Reviews in Hindi & English 👍
#pustak_darpan #book #review #guide #sanatan #dharm #common #learn #responsibility #ancient #knowledge #scriptures
October 29, 2023
This is a truly wonderful book by Sri Nithin Sridhar. The book explains the tenets of what constitutes dharmic living which are common to all of us. We get to understand and learn from what various scriptures tell us about Samanya Dharma and how we may apply it in our daily life. The author delves into the subject with focus, clarity, brevity, while making the topic interesting and easy to understand.
The section 4 is where we get to learn details of various scriptures and their definition and guide to Dharma. Section 6 is wonderful; connecting Yoga, Bhakti and Vedanta to Dharma.
I do feel if sections on Itihasa/Purana katha's of Raja, Praja, Rishi Munis and how they upheld dharma in their unique circumstances would have helped add lot of added colour while driving home the point too.
I would like to thank the author for re-connecting us with our Indic past.
The section 4 is where we get to learn details of various scriptures and their definition and guide to Dharma. Section 6 is wonderful; connecting Yoga, Bhakti and Vedanta to Dharma.
I do feel if sections on Itihasa/Purana katha's of Raja, Praja, Rishi Munis and how they upheld dharma in their unique circumstances would have helped add lot of added colour while driving home the point too.
I would like to thank the author for re-connecting us with our Indic past.
October 31, 2022
It's ok. I wanted to like it more than I eventually did. The first few pages are good but the core of the book talks about which books Vedas, upanishad, smriti of Hinduism mention which act as Samanya Dharm.
Not having intimate details about underlying Vedas and other books, I would not know what to prioritise.
Though I don't regret reading it , it's a small book which might have changed my attitude towards something for good.
Not having intimate details about underlying Vedas and other books, I would not know what to prioritise.
Though I don't regret reading it , it's a small book which might have changed my attitude towards something for good.
March 14, 2024
One of the best books on the basic ethical framework of Hindu Sanskriti. Will have to revisit multiple times to internalise this treasury of Sanskritic dharohar (i.e. heritage) - as an end in itself, and as a means to spiritual ends.
September 13, 2023
Detailed review at https://www.brhat.in/dhiti/samanyadharma
September 4, 2021
“Samanya Dharma - Ethical duties common to all - Author: Nithin Sridhar
Published by: Subbu Rs.108/- Pages: 96
Every religion prescribes certain do’s and don’t’s to its followers. With the passage of time, some undergo a lot of change, and some may not undergo any change. Similarly, Hindu dharma texts prescribed certain duties to their followers. The author painstakingly takes you through various Hindu scriptures like the Vedas, Puranas, Smritis, Itihasas, epics, and historical and mythological texts - as to what are the basic dharma or duties prescribed by these texts. He cites numerous references to these moral duties. It is surprising to a common reader to see that these texts were very old, yet the prescriptions and the proscriptions are still relevant even today. Perhaps they are more relevant today. Thus, they transcend time. Though these are coming from Hindu textbooks, one can notice that the duties enumerated are universal in their character, thus transcending space also. Although the Hindu texts referred to in this small book were written by various authors at different times, you can see one unique thing among all these texts - i.e. the ethical duties were common in all the texts. The author called them aptly as “Samanya Dharma” differentiating with the other dharma which is Vishesha dharma (which are determined by Desha (space), Kala (time), varna (guna/temperament) ashrama (stage of life).
The ethical duties which are common to all act as a moral compass in deciding what is right and what is wrong. One can align his / her direction in life to these duties. Though their goal is to bring happiness to the one who practices; their ultimate goal is to help in establishing social harmony. The world we live in today is continuously driven by stress and divided by social tensions. It is the time to look for directions through the moral compass and adjust our course.
This small book is a condensation of voluminous ancient knowledge about the moral duties prescribed for a practitioner of Hindu dharma. As suggested by Swami Svatmavidyananda in his forward to the book this small booklet is also for historians and sociologists.
Great efforts went into this tiny book by Sridhar. Writing a small book poses a lot of challenges to the author. Usually, authors try to include so much stuff into their book. It becomes difficult in removing things. There lies the mastery of the author’s editorial skills. Sridhar succeeded in his attempt. Endnotes make the book more authentic. This book stimulates the thinking of the reader about the application of these principles’ aka duties in daily life. One who practices and masters these basic common duties in his life will move to the next level. This small book serves as your moral compass. Happy journey!!!
Published by: Subbu Rs.108/- Pages: 96
Every religion prescribes certain do’s and don’t’s to its followers. With the passage of time, some undergo a lot of change, and some may not undergo any change. Similarly, Hindu dharma texts prescribed certain duties to their followers. The author painstakingly takes you through various Hindu scriptures like the Vedas, Puranas, Smritis, Itihasas, epics, and historical and mythological texts - as to what are the basic dharma or duties prescribed by these texts. He cites numerous references to these moral duties. It is surprising to a common reader to see that these texts were very old, yet the prescriptions and the proscriptions are still relevant even today. Perhaps they are more relevant today. Thus, they transcend time. Though these are coming from Hindu textbooks, one can notice that the duties enumerated are universal in their character, thus transcending space also. Although the Hindu texts referred to in this small book were written by various authors at different times, you can see one unique thing among all these texts - i.e. the ethical duties were common in all the texts. The author called them aptly as “Samanya Dharma” differentiating with the other dharma which is Vishesha dharma (which are determined by Desha (space), Kala (time), varna (guna/temperament) ashrama (stage of life).
The ethical duties which are common to all act as a moral compass in deciding what is right and what is wrong. One can align his / her direction in life to these duties. Though their goal is to bring happiness to the one who practices; their ultimate goal is to help in establishing social harmony. The world we live in today is continuously driven by stress and divided by social tensions. It is the time to look for directions through the moral compass and adjust our course.
This small book is a condensation of voluminous ancient knowledge about the moral duties prescribed for a practitioner of Hindu dharma. As suggested by Swami Svatmavidyananda in his forward to the book this small booklet is also for historians and sociologists.
Great efforts went into this tiny book by Sridhar. Writing a small book poses a lot of challenges to the author. Usually, authors try to include so much stuff into their book. It becomes difficult in removing things. There lies the mastery of the author’s editorial skills. Sridhar succeeded in his attempt. Endnotes make the book more authentic. This book stimulates the thinking of the reader about the application of these principles’ aka duties in daily life. One who practices and masters these basic common duties in his life will move to the next level. This small book serves as your moral compass. Happy journey!!!
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