purushartha | पुरुषार्थ

purushartha (Devanagari: पुरुषार्थ ISO15919: puruṣārtha ) is used in two main ways.

1. General Meaning: Making efforts toward any goal.
2. Philosophical Meaning: The traditional four goals of human life (Dharma, Artha, Kāma, Mokṣa), expanded to five in devotional philosophies with the addition of Prem (Divine Love).
   • Arth: striving to acquire wealth.
   • Dharma: living according to the Vedic rules of and righteous conduct (Varnashram Dharma).
   • Kaam: pursuing sensual pleasures and desires.
   • Moksha: seeking liberation or escape from Maya (material bondage).
   • Prem: striving to attain God’s highest power: Divine Love.

The essence of the scriptures, proclaimed by authorities like Chaitanya Mahāprabhu, Lord Shiva, and Shri Maharaj Ji, is clear for the wise:

The first three goals (Artha, Dharma, and Kāma) are short-lived and temporary. The fourth goal, Mokṣa, is ultimately considered a limiting distraction from the highest spiritual pursuit. Therefore, these traditions advocate dropping the first four goals to go "all-in" on Prem, recognizing Divine Love as the only real and eternal goal of life.

LEARN MORE

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