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Dharma

Dharma

14 9.9
An ancient wise man in Hindu stories whom some people worship as a god
  • noun
  • /ˈdɑrmə/
  • Literature
: Dharma
  • He will stay at the Dharma Center we've started here in Seattle.

Examples

  • In December 1998, Roshi made me a Dharma Holder, the last stage before becoming a Sensei.

    Academic text (2000)
  • Well, this must be the Dharma Center.

  • I think it is the most beautiful part of the Dharma.

    Blog text (19)
  • Of course the Dharma is a jewel.

    Blog text (2)
  • Some people came to our camp, shouting, "Victory to Dharma!"

    Fiction book (1992)
  • Siddhartha Gautama taught that even in this life, following the Dharma will lead to reduced suffering.

    Blog text (7)
  • His Awakening experience has been certified by his Zen teacher, Yamada Koun Roshi, who also authorized Habito as one of his "Dharma Heirs."

    Academic text (2000)
  • Many lower castes in India worship the ancient sage, Dharma, seeking guidance and blessings.

  • In Hindu mythology, Dharma is revered as a god by various groups who honor his wisdom.

  • According to tradition, Dharma represents morals and duties that were taught by ancient sages.

Surface Forms

Dharma singular
Dharmas plural

Etymology

Dharma comes from an old Sanskrit word dhar that means 'to hold' or 'to support'. So Dharma came to mean the duty or law that 'holds' the world and society together, and a sage called Dharma would be seen as a protector and guide, which is why some communities worship him.