Hinduism: The Four Aims of

Life
OBJECTIVE:
WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT AIM IN LIFE FOR HINDUS?
Starter:

Is there a meaning to life? If so, what is it? If not, what are we doing here?
 The 4 aims
There are 4 aims that a Hindu should strive to achieve in life. They are referred to in
the Dharma Shashtras (books of laws)*.

These are:
1. Moksha – breaking free from the cycle of reincarnation
2. Dharma – fulfilling personal, social and religious duty
3. Artha – earning one’s living responsibly
4. Kama – enjoying the pleasures of life responsibly

Which of 2-4 do you

think might be the Dharma is seen as the most important
most important? and kama as the least.
Explain in Onenote
Moksha – read the story
on Teams to help
understand the idea of
moksha. What is the
moral of this story?
Dharma
PRINCIPLES:
The CASTE system
Remembering god in your heart and mind
is also a part of
Learning more about god and dharma from holy scriptures
Dharma because it
is a means of
Trying to reach moksha fulfilling our social
Offering worship to god duties.
Feeding animals and birds, and caring for plants and trees

Showing respect to elders and caring for the needy

Always considering what is right and what is wrong about any action

Other than moksha, which of these do you think would be the most
difficult to fulfil? Explain.
Artha
Artha means prosperity. To Hindus this means the pursuit of wealth. Many Hindus
believe that there are only a few people who do not require material wealth.
Therefore, it is of utmost importance that Hindus attain material wealth as part of
attempting to achieve moksha. However, they must not become attached to this.
It’s about having the means and material comfort to live with ease.
Can you give
practical
examples of these

Kama principles?

This Sanskrit word means love, desire or pleasure. It is a very practical part of
Hindus’ aims in life. Hindus aim to achieve pleasure in many ways, including
participating in sporting activities, cultural interests and in their relationships with
one another.
 Plenary:

Thinking about the starter question:

-Do the 4 aims of life reflect your own purpose in
life? Explain.
-Could the 4 aims from Hinduism add anything to
your life? Explain.