Quote of the day by Chanakya: "Religion is not in rituals, but in righteous conduct"

Chanakya, who was an ancient Indian teacher and founder of the Mauryan Empire. He wrote the most popular books on political outlook the Arthashastra and chanakya niti. The quote - "Religion is not in rituals, but in righteous conduct", has been taken from his writing Chanakya Niti but the exact words of this quote varies. Let's understand the true meaning of this quote and why did he say so.

"Religion is not in rituals"

The first part of this quote emphasizes that true religion is not just about following the rituals because people often think that religion is all about following traditions, rituals, performing puja, visiting temples and doing religion related ceremonies. Because he explained that rituals are made to exploit the people if they are followed without righteousness.

What is the meaning of "Righteous conduct"

According to Chanakya, religion is a code of conduct that teaches people how to live life in the right manner. As per his thoughts, religion is all about following the dharma or righteousness and fulfilling the responsibilities, and doing things with ethics. He teaches that society can only survive if they follow their dharma. In his opinion religion is not following the rituals but following the dharma.

He emphasized on Dharma; why?

Chanakya lived in a time where rituals were more important in life than truth, discipline, kindness and justice. But his thoughts were different and always emphasised on righteousness that means doing justice with the people, showing kindness in your personality, living a disciplined life, and be truthful always.

Relevance of this quote in Modern world

In today's life, Chanakya 's words holds a great importance because world is full of jealousy, lies, conflicts, cruelty and people are not fully following the righteousness in life. So, this quote teaches us to follow the Dharma by living the ethical life, which is full of inner peace and one should help to restore soul dharma by getting involved in spiritual activities.