Ethical Values of Dharma and Jurisprudence

This study explores the ancient and multifaceted concept of Dharma as a foundational pillar of Indianphilosophical and legal thought. Originating in the Vedic period (1500–500 BCE), Dharma encompassesmeanings such as duty, virtue, cosmic order, and law. It is distinguished from religion, representing abroader moral and ethical code sustaining individual and societal harmony. The paper examinesDharma’s interpretations across Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, Zoroastrianism, and Islam,and analyzes its correlation with modern legal theory. Jurisprudential perspectives from ancient Indiantexts and Western philosophers—such as Austin, Salmond, and Roscoe Pound—are compared tohighlight the evolution of law from a spiritual, moral foundation to a systematized discipline. TheHindu Legal Theory is presented as one of the earliest organized legal systems, emphasizing theintegration of ethics and law. Ultimately, this paper underscores Dharma’s enduring relevance inshaping human rights, responsibilities, and the moral compass of society.