The purpose of life
The purpose of life for Hindus is to achieve four aims, called PurusharthasA Sanskrit word used by Hindus meaning object of human truth.. These are dharma, kama, artha and moksha. These provide Hindus with opportunities to act morally and ethically and lead a good life. Throughout their lives, Hindus attempt to end the cycle of samsaraIn Hinduism, Buddhism and Sikhism, this is the cycle of life, death and rebirth. and behave in a way that provides good karma/kammaActions, and the consequences of actions. An important concept in Buddhism, Hinduism and Sikhism. in this life and the next.
Dharma
This is related to a person鈥檚 true purpose and is concerned with a person鈥檚 duty and the actions the person takes. Each Hindu believes that they have their own personal dharma. Ultimately, this is about leading a righteous life. Hindus want to end the cycle of samsara, and therefore they aim to make morally right decisions in order to achieve good karma.
Kama
This Sanskrit word means love, desire and pleasure. It is a very practical part of Hindus鈥 aims in life. Hindus aim to achieve pleasure in many ways, including sporting activities and cultural interests, but it is important to note that kama is also derived from sexual pleasure. Therefore, Hindus consider kama to be important in their personal lives. As Hinduism is a very practical religion, it is widely accepted that many Hindus attempt to achieve kama in their lives with their partners. This sexual aspect of kama is considered to be a natural part of human instinct and also produces children.
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 wealth.
Moksha
Moksha is the ultimate aim in life for Hindus. It means to be saved (salvation). When a Hindu achieves moksha, they break free from the cycle of samsara. Hindus aim to end the cycle of samsara through gaining good karma, which means doing good actions and deeds. Therefore, the actions of their previous lives and the actions of their mortal life today are all part of their effort to break the cycle of samsara, which each individual Hindu works towards.