Difference between Dhārmika and Dharmātmā

The word dharma has roots in the Sanskrit dhr-, which means to hold or to support, and is related to Latin firmus (firm, stable). From this, it takes the meaning of "what is established or firm", and hence "law". It is derived from an older Vedic Sanskrit n-stem dharman-, with a literal meaning of "bearer, supporter", in a religious sense conceived as an aspect of Rta.

In the Rigveda, the word appears as an n-stem, dhárman-, with a range of meanings encompassing "something established or firm" (in the literal sense of prods or poles). Figuratively, it means "sustainer" and "supporter" (of deities). It is semantically similar to the Greek themis ("fixed decree, statute, law").

In Charaka Samhita meanings of two words derived from Dharma are given namely Dhārmika and Dharmātmā. Dictionary meaning of both these words is given as “pious” but it is partially correct.

The word Dhārmika (External) means showing the belief in religion by wearing external things like malas, cross, turban or applying tilak on forehead etc.

The word Dharmātmā (Internal) means following religion directly from soul. The qualities which if one is inculcating in himself/herself and encouraging others to follow moral ethics such as Truth, Non-Violence and Fearlessness are nothing but the qualities of Dharmātmā. In life one should become not just Dhārmika but also Dharmātmā .

References:

Wikipedia of Dharma, Etymology.

Charaka Samhita.

 

Yours Sincerely,

Anurag Mehta(UG Physics Student)

Vidhi Baldota.(UG Physics Student)  

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