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The Concept of Dharma : A Reappraisal : 103
in any way affect the factuality or the empiricality of the world. This only implies that dharma adopts an ethical approach to everything so that the valuational aspect is significantly drawn to the focus. The pervasive moral outlook that is emphasized in dharmic tradition does not necessarily need any theological passport. It is designed to have free thinking in the socio-human setup. In this sense, dharma is a social necessity without having any necessary linkage with trans-social or trans-empiric foundation. It is worth noting in this regard that despite their opposition to sacrifices, rigid rituals and to the dogmatic belief in the creator, Buddhism as well as Jainism are never antidharmic. Both have clear and unambiguous acceptance of the doctrine of karma : an offshoot of the Vedic concept of sta.
The moral outlook is not merely confined to man's relationship with other fellowmen, but it is extended to animals, plants and the whole nature. It is, in this context, the concept of rņa (debt) has significance. From the very birth of man it is viewed that he is under moral obligation. Unless the natural surrounding is congenial, the nearby people are generous and cooperative, the very survival of human child is not possible. He is able to grow in a healthy condition on account of all such available facilities. Therefore, man in reasonably under moral obligation to the surrounding things and beings. He should develop the tendency of preserving the natural order in best possible manner so that he remains at peace along with others and at the same time he has the optimum benefit from it. It is not simply for one's own individual purpose or gain. The moral sense has been engineered on the basis that man is not simply one by himself alone but he is what he is only when he treats him as one with others. The sense of fellow feeling is not an external imposition. It is viewed as inbuilt in human psyche. It is, in that way, the sense of duty and obligation are given primacy over rights and individual expectations. It is, precisely in this sense, there is advocacy for the due
