hindu-cosmosWe're still mapping where this idea was first discussed. Key passages and related ideas below.
The Four Aims of Life (Puruṣārthas)
A whole-life map: live rightly, prosper, love, and ultimately seek liberation.
Classical Hindu culture frames a balanced human life around four legitimate aims: dharma, living rightly; artha, pursuing prosperity and worldly aims; kāma, enjoying pleasure and love; and mokṣa, seeking final liberation. Far from condemning worldly goals, the scheme dignifies them in their place while ranking liberation as the highest. It gives a remarkably whole-life view of what a person may rightly seek.
Key passages(17)
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Vivekacūḍāmaṇi 5↗challenges
Vivekacūḍāmaṇi · Śaṅkara (traditionally ascribed; authorship doubted)
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Bṛhadāraṇyaka Upaniṣad · Vedic Revelation (śruti)
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Bṛhadāraṇyaka Upaniṣad · Vedic Revelation (śruti)
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