The word Purushārtha means human goals. In our spiritual texts, the word is also used in other senses — sometimes it refers to free will, and at other times to effort, endeavor, or deliberate choice. However, its primary meaning is the ultimate goals or destination of human life.
Artha Purushārtha : Aspects of Security
The first one which starts early in life is the goal of Artha – one meaning of Artha is security. It is sheer physical survival. Right from birth, human beings’ instinct is survival. Anything that provides for your security is Artha. Broadly, these are food, clothing, and shelter. In a broad sense, it includes money, property, skills, influence, relationships, and health. Right from the beginning, trouble begins. First, we want to take care of our own security. The second layer is future security and security in old age. Initially, food and clothing are important, then comes security for health. Then we are worried about unexpected accidental threats. We need insurance for such instances.
The second layer of security is for the family. Thus, for most of our lives we are busy working for security. All these come under purushārtha to get freedom from fear. Animals also want security; however, they take care of it instinctively, and Bhagwān has provided for it. We human beings, must work for it.
Our traditional view of Artha is not materialism but a stewardship. Wealth is necessary for a dignified and productive life. But wealth must be earned and used in the light of Dharma. The primary principle is “Earn by righteous means; spend for noble causes; live with simplicity.”
Artha is also a psychological wealth, confidence, clarity, determination, and goodwill. The wise use of Artha includes charity, support of education, community, welfare, and spiritual causes.
Artha, when dedicated to Dharma and oriented towards service and becomes a spiritual practice. It transforms ego-driven accumulation into a divine offering. Properly handled Artha becomes fuel for living a balanced life and stepping stone for Moksha.
— Sanjay Mehta
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