When the World Loses Its Balance: Becoming an Instrument of Dharma

Meaning:

Whenever righteousness declines and unrighteousness increases, I incarnate.

Essence:

This is one of the most recognizable statements of the Bhagavad Gita; however, it means more than divine intervention. This verse addresses the consequences of losing that balance.

Dharma can be interpreted as a principle of leading a righteous, responsible life. Adharma refers to the factors that lead people away from that balance. Krishna says that whenever such an imbalance occurs on Earth, divinity appears to restore balance.

This is one of the most interesting ideas to discuss in relation to a young man.

Consider a scenario in which deception has somehow crept into the way things are done at work. People are taking credit for others' contributions. Minor deceptions are tolerated. Questioning it becomes difficult because everyone seems to be doing the same thing. Ultimately, one individual chooses to say, I do not want to fall into this simply because it suits me.

This may seem like a small step; however, it restores balance.

The verse does not necessarily mean we should sit back and wait for someone else to rectify matters. Its real message may be that we can also become the means of dharma through our actions.

At other times, dharma can mean speaking the truth when lies are easier to tell. Sometimes, it is not engaging in any activity that involves injustice. At other times, it may mean safeguarding somebody who is too weak to defend himself. At other times, it means doing the right thing even when no one is watching.

It is also comforting to note the shloka's circular nature. One may witness situations in life where everything around is confusion and injustice. One may lose faith when dishonesty is rewarded while honest people suffer.

It may be impossible to bring justice to the entire world, but we can at least choose our part.

And perhaps this is the best lesson for a younger generation: if everything around you becomes unbalanced, do not become unbalanced along with it.

Defend what you think is right. Be an honest person. Make sure your decisions help re-establish harmony.

Sometimes, the change that we expect from the heavens starts by being a part of it ourselves.