Laws of Nature – Shareer Dharma – BHAYA

In the grand tapestry (Complex sequence of events) of existence, certain principles govern not just our physical world but also our experiences as conscious beings. The ancient science of Ayurveda offers profound insights into these natural laws through concepts like “Shareer Dharma” (the laws governing our physical existence) and “Bhaya” (fear) as fundamental aspects of the natural order.

The Foundation of Shareer Dharma

Shareer Dharma, literally translated as “the law of the body” or “physical righteousness,” represents the inherent principles that govern our physical existence. In Ayurvedic literature, particularly in the Charaka Samhita’s Sharira Sthana, these laws are described as the foundation of health and wellbeing:

“Dhāraṇāt dharmam ityāhuh dharmo dhārayate prajāh” (Charaka Samhita, Sharira Sthana 6.7)

This verse suggests that dharma is that which sustains and supports – in the context of the body, it refers to the principles that maintain bodily integrity and function. Charaka further elaborates that violation of these laws inevitably leads to disease and suffering.

Our bodies follow certain immutable laws: we need oxygen to breathe, water to maintain hydration, and nourishment to sustain ourselves. We experience pain when injured, fatigue when exhausted, and rejuvenation when rested. The Sushruta Samhita refers to these as “Niyata Karmas” or ordained functions that cannot be altered without consequences.

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Bhaya: Fear as a Protective Mechanism

Interwoven with Shareer Dharma is the concept of Bhaya, or fear. In Ayurvedic psychology, particularly as described in texts like the Caraka Samhita’s Vimana Sthana and Kashyapa Samhita, Bhaya is recognized as one of the fundamental emotions that influences both mind and body.

The Caraka Samhita categorizes fear as one of the natural psychological responses that serves an evolutionary purpose:

“Bhayam rakshartham utpannam” (Charaka Samhita, Vimana Sthana 4.8)

This suggests that fear arises for protection and preservation. When balanced, fear serves as one of nature’s most sophisticated protective mechanisms. Far from being merely a negative emotion to overcome, the ancient texts recognize that fear exists not as a limitation but as a guardian of life itself.

The Harmonious Relationship Between Shareer Dharma and Bhaya

What makes these concepts particularly fascinating is how they operate in synchronicity. Shareer Dharma establishes the boundaries and requirements of physical existence, while Bhaya serves as the enforcement mechanism ensuring we respect these boundaries.

The Ashtanga Samgraha describes this relationship eloquently (Fluent Manner):

“Bhayam sharira-rakshakam, dharma-sthapakam cha” (Ashtanga Samgraha, Sutra Sthana 7.5)

This verse suggests that fear protects the body and establishes righteousness – a perfect description of how Bhaya enforces Shareer Dharma.

Consider these examples:

• Our bodies require regular hydration (Shareer Dharma), and we experience thirst – a form of fear of dehydration – to ensure compliance.
• Physical integrity is essential for survival (Shareer Dharma), and pain – another form of fear – alerts us when this integrity is compromised.
• Rest is necessary for cellular repair (Shareer Dharma), and exhaustion – fear of collapse – compels us to honor this need.

Modern Disconnection and Prajnaparadha

In our contemporary world, we often find ourselves at odds with these natural laws. Ayurveda identifies this disconnect as “Prajnaparadha” or intellectual error – one of the three fundamental causes of disease:

“Dhi-dhriti-smriti vibhrashtah karmayat prajnaparadhat” (Charaka Samhita, Sharira Sthana 1.102)

This refers to actions performed with impaired intellect, willpower, or memory – essentially going against what we know to be right for our bodies. We push beyond physical limits, ignore bodily signals, and view fear as something to be conquered rather than respected. This disconnection manifests as chronic stress, burnout, and various physical ailments.

Modern conveniences allow us to override natural cycles – artificial lighting permits activity long after sunset, processed foods mask true hunger signals, and medication often treats symptoms while we continue behaviors that violate Shareer Dharma.

Reclaiming Wisdom: Sadvritta and Swasthavritta

The path forward isn’t about returning to primitive existence but rather about cultivating awareness of these natural laws and aligning our choices accordingly. Ayurveda offers the concepts of Sadvritta (ethical living) and Swasthavritta (health-promoting behaviors) as guidelines:

“Hitahitam sukham dukham ayustasya hitahitam | manam cha tacca yatroktam ayurveda sa ucyate ||” (Charaka Samhita, Sutra Sthana 1.41)

This defining verse states that Ayurveda is the science that describes what is beneficial and harmful, happy and unhappy, what promotes and diminishes lifespan, and the overall nature of life itself.

Reclaiming this wisdom Might mean:

• Recognizing fear as intelligence rather than weakness
• Honoring the body’s signals rather than suppressing them
• Understanding that certain aspects of physical existence aren’t negotiable
• Aligning daily activities with natural cycles (Dinacharya)
• Adapting lifestyle according to seasonal changes (Ritucharya)

Conclusion

The ancient wisdom encapsulated (Message in codes) in Shareer Dharma and Bhaya offers profound insights for modern living. By recognizing these principles not as outdated philosophies but as timeless truths described in Ayurvedic classics, we can navigate our complex world with greater ease and less suffering.

As the Charaka Samhita beautifully states:

“Sukhasya moolam dharmah, dharmasya moolam arthah, arthasya moolam rajyam” (Charaka Samhita, Sutra Sthana 15.22)

This verse suggests that happiness is rooted in dharma, dharma is rooted in prosperity, and prosperity is rooted in governance – illustrating the interconnected nature of all aspects of life when guided by proper principles.

Perhaps true wisdom lies not in transcending our physical nature but in fully embracing it – honoring the intelligence embedded within our very cells and the protective mechanisms that have ensured human survival for millennia. In doing so, we might discover that what we perceived as limitations were actually guiding principles, and what we fought as fear was actually our greatest ally in navigating the miraculous journey of physical existence.

References

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