Understanding the Rights and Dignity of Humans: The Hindu Perspective

Abstract

This study represents Hinduism as a duty-based religion (Seva dharma) that attaches extraordinary significance to the responsibilities and duties of an individual towards humankind. By stressing selfless service and humanism as the core of religion, it attempts to discover how Hinduism plays a role in establishing peace and solidarity in society. This research paper also examines human freedom, equality, nonviolence, and the status of women in terms of human rights and dignity, both from theoretical and practical perspectives. The contribution of different religious faiths to human beings’ moral, social, and spiritual advancement is undeniable. However, it is a matter of sorrow that most of the conflicts and bloody wars in the world have been held in the name of religion. Lack of knowledge about the religions of others is the main reason behind such religious-based violence. According to Hindu beliefs of reincarnation, many argue that it is meaningless to serve the helpless because they are suffering the consequences of the deeds of their previous lives. This paper strongly rejects such an argument. We can know from the Vedas that a perfect man lives for the sake of helping others. The main objective of Hinduism is to attain spiritual prosperity through service to all humankind. Therefore, this research work seeks to prove that Hindu teachings on human responsibilities and duties can be the basis for promoting universal human rights and dignity. This study aims to establish a duty-based and welfare society by discovering Hindu perspectives on human rights and dignity.

Keywords: Hinduism, Human Rights, Dignity, Freedom, Equality, Selfless Service, Humanism