In today’s world, religion—or Dharm, as understood in many Indian traditions—is often reduced to a set of rituals, identity markers, or ideological boundaries. We may identify with a religion, recite its texts, observe its festivals, and even defend it passionately in debates. But somewhere along the line, we seem to have forgotten that the true essence of Dharm lies not in passive acceptance, but in active practice. Religious identity without ethical conduct is like a lamp without oil. It may still be called a lamp, but it cannot offer light. Dharm, in its truest sense, is not about mere allegiance to a faith or fulfilling external obligations—it is a lived experience that must reflect in our thoughts, actions, relationships, and responsibilities.
Acceptance Is Not Enough: One of the most common misconceptions about religion is that accepting a particular belief system, philosophy, or deity is enough to attain spiritual progress or moral clarity. People often take pride in saying, “I belong to this religion,” or “I accept this as the ultimate truth.” While acceptance can be a starting point, it is not the destination. History is replete with examples of people who accepted religion but failed to live by its values. Corruption, injustice, hate, exploitation, and dishonesty continue to plague societies where religious belief is widespread. Why? Because belief without ethical practice is hollow. Rituals like Namaz (prayer), Pooja (worship), Roza (fasting), and other forms of devotional acts are certainly important. They offer structure, discipline, and moments of reflection. But if these acts do not transform our character or influence how we treat others, then we must ask ourselves: what are we really practicing? Dharm is a Sanskrit word that encompasses duty, righteousness, ethical conduct, and cosmic order. It is not confined to any one religion—it is a universal principle. When the Bhagavad Gita speaks of Dharm, it speaks of standing up for justice, truth, and one’s responsibilities, even in the face of adversity. When the Quran speaks of Deen, it emphasizes not only prayer and fasting but also charity, humility, justice, and kindness. Every faith, at its core, promotes similar virtues: love, honesty, self-control, generosity, and non-violence. But these virtues must be demonstrated in everyday actions—how we earn our livelihood, how we speak to our neighbors, how we treat the poor, and how we respond to wrongdoing. Religious texts are not just to be read; they are to be lived. Quoting scriptures while ignoring their message is like admiring the beauty of a seed without ever planting it. In our times, when the world is divided along lines of caste, creed, gender, and wealth, practicing Dharm means standing against inequality.
“Reclaim the essence of religion—not as a badge of identity, but as a way of life rooted in ethical action. Let us move beyond mere acceptance. Let us fast, pray, and worship—but more importantly, let us be just, kind, humble, and courageous. For in doing so, we do not just follow a religion—we practice Dharm, and that is what humanity needs most today.”
When consumerism and greed dominate, Dharm means choosing simplicity, fairness, and sustainability. When truth is distorted for political gain, Dharm means speaking honestly, even if it is uncomfortable. It is much easier to light a lamp in a temple or mosque than to shine light into a corrupt system. It is easier to fast during religious seasons than to abstain from gossip, jealousy, or cruelty. The real test of faith is not how fervently we pray, but how deeply we embody the spirit of our prayer in daily life. Imagine a society where people truly practiced what they preached. Where the wealthy shared with the poor without being compelled. Where officials upheld justice not out of fear of punishment, but from a sense of moral duty. Where religious gatherings were not just shows of strength but platforms for building peace, compassion, and collective welfare. This is not idealism; it is the very purpose of religion. The saints, prophets, and sages of all traditions did not just teach rituals—they lived by example, showing what it means to walk the path of Dharm.
Tailpiece: The time has come to reclaim the essence of religion—not as a badge of identity, but as a way of life rooted in ethical action. Let us move beyond mere acceptance. Let us fast, pray, and worship—but more importantly, let us be just, kind, humble, and courageous. For in doing so, we do not just follow a religion—we practice Dharm, and that is what humanity needs most today.
(The author a freelancer a teacher and a researcher based in Gowhar Pora Chadoora is also Advisor at The Nature University Kashmir. The views, opinions and conclusions expressed in this article are those of the author and aren’t necessarily in accord with the views of “Kashmir Horizon”)
Dr. Ashraf Zainabi
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