The phrase "We can always choose between good and evil" reflects a fundamental concept in Hindu philosophy regarding human agency and moral responsibility. In Hindu wisdom, this idea is deeply rooted in several core beliefs and teachings:
Dharma and Adharma
Dharma: This represents the moral law, duty, righteousness,
and ethical conduct. It encompasses the duties and responsibilities one must
adhere to according to one's position in life (e.g., as a student, householder,
warrior, etc.).
Adharma: The opposite of Dharma, representing chaos,
disorder, and unethical conduct.
Hindu texts, such as the Bhagavad Gita and Manusmriti,
emphasize the importance of choosing Dharma over Adharma. The choice between
good and evil is essentially a choice between Dharma and Adharma.
Karma
Law of Karma: This is the principle of cause and effect,
where every action (good or evil) has corresponding consequences. The concept
of karma underlines that individuals are responsible for their actions and
their resultant outcomes.
The Bhagavad Gita highlights the importance of performing
one's duty without attachment to the results, thus making righteous choices
aligned with Dharma.
Free Will and Self-Realization
Free Will: Hinduism acknowledges human free will, allowing
individuals to make choices. Despite various influences, individuals are
believed to have the innate ability to discern and choose between right and
wrong.
Self-Realization: The ultimate goal in Hindu philosophy is
to realize the true nature of the self (Atman) and its unity with Brahman (the
Supreme Reality). Making ethical choices and adhering to Dharma is part of the
journey toward self-realization.
Key Teachings and Texts
Bhagavad Gita: Lord Krishna advises Arjuna on the
battlefield of Kurukshetra about his duty (Dharma) as a warrior, emphasizing
righteous action and the moral struggle of choosing between good and evil.
"You have the right to perform your prescribed duties,
but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions. Never consider yourself
to be the cause of the results of your activities, nor be attached to
inaction." (Bhagavad Gita 2.47)
Upanishads: These ancient texts explore the nature of
reality and the self, emphasizing the importance of knowledge (Vidya) and
ignorance (Avidya) in making ethical choices.
"Lead me from untruth to truth; Lead me from darkness
to light; Lead me from death to immortality." (Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
1.3.28)
Moral Exemplars
Rama and Krishna: Both avatars of Vishnu, Rama and Krishna,
serve as moral exemplars in Hindu mythology, embodying the principles of
Dharma. Their stories (in the Ramayana and Mahabharata, respectively) highlight
the constant struggle and necessity of choosing good over evil.
In summary, the concept that "We can always choose
between good and evil" is integral to Hindu philosophy. It underscores the
belief in free will, moral responsibility, and the importance of living a life
aligned with Dharma. Through the teachings of sacred texts, the examples set by
divine incarnations, and the understanding of karma, Hindu wisdom provides a
framework for making ethical choices and leading a righteous life.