New
New
Year 7
Sanatana dharma
I can explain the meaning of the Sanatana dharma and the way it is interpreted by Hindus.
New
New
Year 7
Sanatana dharma
I can explain the meaning of the Sanatana dharma and the way it is interpreted by Hindus.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- The Sanatana dharma is the eternal set of duties for Hindus that enable living in harmony with the world.
- Many Hindus describe how their dharma may vary at life stages (ashramas).
- The Mahabarata is a Hindu epic poem that reflects on dharma.
- Dharma may be interpreted flexibly by individuals to make ethical decisions.
Keywords
Ashrama - a system of stages of life in Hindu Dharma
Sanatana dharma - eternal law or truth
Mabharata - a Hindu epic poem that reflects on the nature of dharma
Common misconception
The 4 yogas are referring only to the physical form of yoga.
The 4 yogas refer to the paths that Hindus can follow to fulfil their dharma.
Equipment
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on
Open Government Licence version 3.0
except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).Lesson video
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Starter quiz
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6 Questions
Q1.
Which religion is not part of the three dharmic faiths?
Buddhism
Sikhi
Hindusim
Q2.
What is the Hindu interpretation of dharma?
following the Buddha's teachings
following the gurus' teachings
that it is a person's duty to achieve enlightenment
Q3.
The word 'Hindu' originates from the people living near which river?
the Ganges
the Nile
Q4.
Which term might be used to replace the word 'Hinduism'?
Dhammapada
Sindhu dharma
Q5.
Which concepts link the dharmic religions?
heaven
judgement
Q6.
Select the ways in which a Hindu may follow their dharma.
by following the path to enlightenment
by following the teachings of the gurus
Exit quiz
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4 Questions
Q1.
According to Hindus, what does Sanatana Dharma refer to?
the four aims in life
the four stages in life
Q2.
Which name best refers to God in Hindu Dharma?
Waheguru
Allah
Q3.
How many ashramas are there?
one
three
six
eight
Q4.
Match the four stages in a Hindu's life to the correct ashramas.
being a student and learning
being parent and householder
retirement and time to focus on a spiritual life
giving up worldly goods and seeking a spiritual purpose
Additional material
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