sanakantana

Sanakantana is a term sometimes used in discussions related to Hinduism, particularly in contemporary Indian discourse. It is a compound word, formed from "Sanatana," meaning eternal or ancient, and "Dharma," meaning righteousness, duty, or natural law. Together, "Sanakantana Dharma" is often translated as "eternal righteousness" or "the eternal way." This term is widely understood to refer to the indigenous religious and cultural traditions of the Indian subcontinent, encompassing a broad spectrum of philosophical, spiritual, and ethical principles that have evolved over millennia.

The concept of Sanakantana Dharma is seen by its adherents as a timeless and continuously evolving tradition, rather than a religion with a single founder or a fixed set of doctrines. It emphasizes concepts such as karma, dharma, reincarnation, and moksha (liberation). The traditions encompassed within Sanakantana Dharma include various schools of Hindu philosophy, yogic practices, and devotional traditions. Its followers believe it provides a comprehensive framework for living a meaningful life, emphasizing individual responsibility, spiritual growth, and the interconnectedness of all beings. The term is frequently used to distinguish these traditions from religions introduced from outside the Indian subcontinent.