Virtues Promoted By Dharma – Shaucha
                     Virtues Promoted By Dharma – Shaucha
Chaitanya Kumari
Writes informational articles on common ethics, 
dharma meaning, dharma meaning in english, 
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“Shaucha,” which can be translated as “cleanliness,” is a crucial virtue 
in Sanatana Dharma. Here, “cleanliness” could be slightly misleading. 
It is primarily concerned with external cleanliness covering personal 
hygiene and keeping the surroundings clean. But, “Shaucha” is a 
broader concept. It encompasses aspects of internal cleanliness, as 
well. 
•Personal hygiene and maintaining a clean environment are of utmost 
value in Hindu Dharma. The importance of bathing daily, wearing clean 
clothes, and keeping food pure is emphasized in many ancient Indian 
texts.
•A crucial aspect of “Shaucha” taught by Sanatana Dharma is that the 
significance of “purity of mind” is on par with that of external 
cleanliness. “Purity of mind” can be called internal cleanliness, too. 
Cultivating noble traits such as honesty, compassion, fulfilling 
responsibilities, and self-restraint falls under internal purity. A person 
can be considered fully adhering to “Shaucha” only when they conform 
to all these aspects. 
•Every human being carries a divine spark within. But, it gets 
concealed when an individual gets involved in worldly matters, as they 
grow up. One of the best ways to awaken this latent divinity is to follow 
the principles of internal purity, or purity of mind. A person then 
reaches a position where attaining spiritual growth becomes easier.
•Achieving real purity is not possible for people whose minds are 
always filled with hatred, anger, lust, fear, and pride. They are 
distant from internal cleanliness. Only by accepting their flaws and 
committing to self-improvement do they gradually come closer to 
“Shaucha.” 
•Many scriptures of Hinduism highlight a salient aspect. When a 
person intends to live their life strictly according to Dharma, 
“Shaucha” is an element they cannot afford to ignore. All attempts to 
become a Dharmic individual will be futile if they disregard the 
principles of “Shaucha.” Adherence to the principles of both internal 
and external cleanliness is a basic prerequisite for adopting a 
Dharmic lifestyle. 
•Nearly all sacred Hindu scriptures unanimously emphasize the 
importance of nature and the environment. Many rituals performed 
on various occasions express respect for nature through religious 
ceremonies. Therefore, practicing eco-friendly habits is naturally 
considered an essential part of “Shaucha.” 
An individual who shows disrespect to nature by contributing to 
pollution is classed as Adharmic. Even if they maintain personal 
hygiene and keep their immediate surroundings clean, it is of no 
relevance. They are labeled as a person who violate the principles of 
“Shaucha.” 
•There are also people who try to claim that one of these two—
external cleanliness or internal purity—is superior to the other. And 
the fact is that both virtues have an equal standing. Choosing one at 
the cost of neglecting the other will not help the cause. 
•When a person diligently follows the principles of “Shaucha,” they 
find it easy to maintain harmonious relationships with others. Their 
communications are clear and honest, leaving no scope for 
ambiguity. At the same time, they are well aware of where to draw 
boundaries. The personal space of others is respected. As a direct 
result of all that, their minds are always tranquil. 
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