Sanatan Dharma implies two words, Sanatana which means eternal and Dharma which means the Law that governs all existence. So the term means the Eternal Law to which all creatures are subject. These are laws ingrained within creation so that the universal order is maintained.
But since it is universal, the Law adapts itself to the intrinsic nature of each thing. Thus, for example, the fire burns since it is the nature or law of fire to burn. Similarly each creature is bound by its own law within which and according to which it must operate. If it tries to cross the line, the Law hits back, recoils upon the transgressing element.
In man however the law operates in a wide and plastic way because each human being is unique and different. What applies to a child does not apply to an adult. What applies to a half conscious brute or primitive man would not apply to a developed evolved person.
In human beings the Law is of conscious evolution through the process of karma, consequence and rebirth. For this reason man, of all the creatures, is given an apparent freewill so that can choose rationally and grow. For man the Dharma is to try to live more and more in a Sattwic or at least Rajo-Sattwic rather than the rajasic and tamasic way.
What about gods, temples, scriptures and rituals? Well, if they help us lead a more Sattwic way of life, so much the better. If they don’t, especially if we do these things only to fulfil our desires or mechanically as a routine (in a rajasic or tamasic way) then they hinder our progress.
Finally the Sanatana Dharma, if rightly followed is meant to liberate us from all dharmas. It takes us beyond the law to the true liberty that comes by spiritual union with the Divine through Yoga.
Affectionately,
Alok Da
