Artha
artha, (Sanskrit: “wealth,” or “property”), in Hinduism, the pursuit of wealth or material advantage, one of the four traditional aims in life.
The sanction for artha rests on the assumption that—with the exclusion of the exceptional few who can proceed directly to the final aim of moksha, or spiritual release from life—material well-being is a basic necessity of man and is his appropriate pursuit while a householder, that is, during the second of the four life stages. Furthermore, artha, as the pursuit of material advantage, is closely tied to the activities of statecraft, which maintains the general social order and prevents anarchy. But, as the immoderate pursuit of material advantage would lead to undesirable and ruinous excesses, artha must always be regulated by the superior aim of dharma, or righteousness.
In Hinduism, artha is one of the four legitimate pursuits of life. It is considered crucial for achieving a balanced and successful life, as material wealth and security provide the means to support oneself and one's family, contribute to society, and engage in religious and spiritual practices.
The pursuit of artha involves acquiring wealth, property, and resources through lawful and ethical means. It is believed that achieving artha should be aligned with dharma (righteousness) to ensure that the pursuit of material goals does not lead to unethical behavior or harm to others.
Role in the Four Purusharthas
Artha is positioned between dharma and kama. While dharma represents moral and ethical duties, and kama pertains to desires and pleasures, artha provides the resources and security necessary to achieve both. A well-balanced pursuit of artha supports one's ability to fulfill dharma and enjoy kama in a responsible manner.