Dharma is a core tenet in the Hindu and Buddhist traditions, typically understood to refer to a transcendental, universal law of cosmic harmony and justice. Dharma concerns itself with the regulation of natural and social order, encompassing respect for ethical and spiritual values, patterns, and behaviour. This includes culturally specific values and ethical frameworks that shape the daily life of individuals. Dharma operates on an individual, communal, and cosmic level, and shapes our understanding of the inseparable and interconnected nature of phenomena. Dharma is not a static, codified law, but rather an evolving path of engagement, self-discovery and growth, which practitioners can strive to deepen and embody as one’s own truth.

See also: dependent origination, bodily experience, compassion practice, insight meditation, walking meditation