How to Perform the Five Duties of a Hindu

The Five Duties are daily Hindu obligations to affirm on a daily basis one's devotion and commitment to the Hindu tradition of one's choice. The Five Duties serve as daily opportunities for peace, prosperity and spiritual advancement toward liberation from rebirth.

Things You'll Need

• Hindu scriptures

Instructions

The Five Duties of a Hindu

1. 

   Live a life of virtue. Hindu scriptures, Vedas, Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita, offer clear instructions for a life of virtue. Dharma, righteous duty, include practicing Ahimsa (non-injury), respect and performing your duties without attachment to results, but to offer each duty to God.

2. 

   Make a pilgrimage (Tirthayãtrã). Routinely visit sacred Hindu places. Such places may be temples, Hindu masters, India and other sites of pilgrimage. Pilgrimages free you from daily routine and focus your whole being on the sacred.

3. 

   Observe holy days or Hindu festivals (Utsava). Festivals are celebrated in the home and at temples. Engage in fasts to purify your body and spirit.

4. 

   Participate in the sacraments (Samskãras). Hindu scriptures define the sacraments, which guide you through your life events. Sacraments purify and bless you with truthfulness and a generous spirit.

5. 

   Observe Sarva Brahmã (God in all). In every activity, with every being, strive to honor God in all reality. This is a form of Bhakti, or devotion, that is liberating.

Tips & Warnings

• Explore in detail each of the Five Duties Utsava). Festivals are celebrated in the home and at temples. Engage in fasts to purify your body and spirit.

Resources

• The Heart of Hinduism
• Your Day as a Hindu
• Five Daily Duties of a Sri Vaishnava