Artha

Artha is one of the four aims of human life in Indian philosophy, according to ancient Hindu scriptures. The term 'Artha' literally translates to 'meaning, sense, goal, purpose or essence' depending on the context. In the scope of Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha, Artha refers to the pursuit of wealth and prosperity, and is considered an important and legitimate goal of human life.

Etymology and Scriptural Definition

The word Artha is derived from the root word 'ṛ,' which means 'to move towards' or 'to seek'. In a broader sense, Artha encompasses not only the acquisition of wealth but also the means of life, resources, and activities that enable an individual to be in a state where they can perform their duties and responsibilities effectively.

In the Vedas, which are the oldest scriptures of Hinduism, Artha is mentioned as one of the objectives of human life. The Arthashastra, an ancient Indian treatise on statecraft, economic policy, and military strategy written by Chanakya (also known as Kautilya), is centered on how to achieve Artha in both individual and state levels.

Importance in Hindu Philosophy

In Hindu philosophy, Artha is considered one of the prerequisites for the pursuit of other goals of human life. Without Artha, it is difficult to fulfill the duties prescribed by Dharma, enjoy the pleasures allowed by Kama, or attain the ultimate liberation, Moksha.

Artha is not merely the pursuit of wealth for personal gratification but is viewed through the lens of responsibility and sustainability. It emphasizes the importance of creating wealth through righteous means and using it for the welfare of the community.

Relation with Other Purusharthas

Artha is closely interlinked with the other three aims of life:

• Dharma: The ethical and moral values that guide one's life. Dharma is considered the foundation upon which Artha should be pursued.
• Kama: The enjoyment of life's physical and emotional pleasures. Kama should be pursued without compromising Dharma and Artha.
• Moksha: The liberation from the cycle of life and death. Moksha is the ultimate goal of life and is facilitated by a balanced pursuit of Dharma, Artha, and Kama.

Contemporary Relevance

In modern times, the concept of Artha is highly relevant as it encapsulates the challenges of economic pressures and the ethical dilemmas faced by individuals and societies. Understanding Artha can lead to a balanced approach to wealth creation and economic sustainability, promoting a holistic sense of well-being.

See Also

• Hindu Ethics
• Indian Economic Thought
• Vedic Philosophy