Hindu Sanatan Shastra and the Principle of Survival of the Fittest: An Exploration Through Sacred Texts

Hindu Sanatan Dharma, often referred to as the “eternal way,” is a profound and ancient spiritual tradition that encompasses a vast body of knowledge and wisdom. The scriptures of Hinduism, collectively known as the Shastras, contain teachings that address every aspect of life, from the metaphysical to the mundane. Among these teachings is the concept of “Survival of the Fittest,” which, although typically associated with Darwinian evolutionary theory, finds a deep resonance within the Shastras, where it is interwoven with moral and spiritual dimensions.

Understanding “Survival of the Fittest” in a Hindu Context

The principle of “Survival of the Fittest” in the Darwinian sense refers to the idea that in the struggle for existence, those organisms best adapted to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce. While this concept is rooted in biology, the Hindu Shastras offer a broader interpretation that includes not just physical survival but also moral, spiritual, and societal fitness.

In Hindu thought, “fitness” encompasses qualities such as dharma (righteousness), satya (truth), and yajna (sacrifice). These qualities enable an individual or a society to thrive in harmony with cosmic laws, thereby ensuring not only physical survival but also spiritual evolution.

The Concept of Dharma: The Foundation of Survival

The concept of Dharma is central to Hindu philosophy. Dharma represents the moral and ethical duties that sustain the order of the universe. In the Mahabharata, one of the greatest epics of Hinduism, the discourse between Lord Krishna and Arjuna in the Bhagavad Gita emphasizes that living in accordance with one’s Dharma is essential for survival, both materially and spiritually.

In the Gita, Lord Krishna advises Arjuna to fulfill his Kshatriya (warrior) Dharma by fighting in the battle of Kurukshetra. This is not merely a call to arms but a deeper assertion that righteousness and duty must prevail for the greater good. Arjuna’s survival and success as a warrior are contingent upon his adherence to Dharma, thus illustrating the principle that survival in the highest sense requires alignment with divine laws.

Example from the Mahabharata: The survival of the Pandavas, despite overwhelming odds, can be attributed to their adherence to Dharma. Even when exiled, they remained committed to righteousness, and this moral fitness ultimately led to their victory and the restoration of order.

Karma and Reincarnation: The Spiritual Continuum of Fitness

Hinduism’s concept of Karma (action and its consequences) and Reincarnation ties into the idea of survival across lifetimes. According to Hindu Shastras, the soul undergoes a continuous cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (Samsara), and the quality of one’s actions (karma) determines the circumstances of future lives.

The notion of “fitness” extends beyond a single lifetime; it encompasses the soul’s evolution across multiple incarnations. Those who live virtuously and adhere to Dharma accumulate good karma, which results in a better rebirth, thus “surviving” in a more evolved state in future existences.

Example from the Upanishads: In the Katha Upanishad, the young boy Nachiketa, by seeking and adhering to the ultimate truth (Brahman), ensures his spiritual survival and evolution. His fitness is demonstrated not through physical prowess but through spiritual insight and moral integrity, which transcend physical death.

The Law of the Jungle: Survival in the Natural World

The Hindu Shastras do not ignore the harsh realities of survival in the natural world. The Arthashastra, an ancient treatise on statecraft, economics, and military strategy, acknowledges the principle of “Matsya Nyaya” (the Law of the Fish), which posits that in times of crisis, the strong prey upon the weak, akin to the Darwinian concept of survival of the fittest.

However, Hindu philosophy goes a step further by suggesting that while this law may apply in the animal kingdom and during times of Adharma (lawlessness), it is the duty of a righteous ruler to uphold Dharma and protect the weak, thus preventing the law of the jungle from dominating human society.

Example from the Arthashastra: Kautilya (Chanakya), the author of the Arthashastra, advises the king to be vigilant and strong to ensure the survival of the state. Yet, he also emphasizes that the true strength of a ruler lies in their ability to protect the weak and maintain justice, thus ensuring a stable and prosperous society.

Yajna: The Principle of Sacrifice and Collective Survival

The concept of Yajna (sacrifice) is another key principle in Hindu Shastras that relates to survival. Yajna symbolizes the interconnectedness of all life and the importance of selflessness for the survival of the whole. The Rigveda, the oldest of the Vedas, speaks extensively about Yajna as a cosmic order that sustains life through mutual giving and receiving.

In a broader sense, Yajna represents the principle that individual survival is linked to the survival of the community and the environment. By performing one’s duties selflessly and contributing to the welfare of others, one ensures not only personal survival but also the survival of society and the natural world.

Example from the Vedas: The Purusha Sukta of the Rigveda describes the cosmic sacrifice of Purusha, the primal being, whose body is offered in Yajna to create the universe. This mythological example illustrates that survival and creation are born out of sacrifice, reinforcing the idea that selflessness is key to the survival and flourishing of all existence.

Survival of the Fittest and Varna System

The Varna system, which categorizes society into four classes—Brahmins (priests), Kshatriyas (warriors), Vaishyas (merchants), and Shudras (laborers)—can also be seen through the lens of survival of the fittest. Each Varna has its own Dharma, and fulfilling these duties ensures the survival and prosperity of both the individual and society.

However, it is important to note that the concept of Varna was originally based on qualities and actions (Guna and Karma) rather than birth, emphasizing that fitness for a particular role in society is determined by one’s abilities and character rather than one’s lineage.

Example from the Manusmriti: The Manusmriti, a Dharmashastra text, outlines the duties of each Varna, emphasizing that when each person fulfills their role in accordance with Dharma, society functions harmoniously. This balance ensures the survival and stability of the social order.

Conclusion: A Holistic View of Survival

The Hindu Shastras present a multifaceted understanding of the principle of survival of the fittest, extending it beyond mere physical survival to encompass moral, spiritual, and societal dimensions. By adhering to Dharma, accumulating good Karma, performing Yajna, and fulfilling one’s role in society, individuals and communities ensure their survival and evolution in alignment with cosmic laws.

In this way, Hindu philosophy offers a holistic approach to survival, where “fitness” is defined not just by strength or adaptability, but by righteousness, selflessness, and spiritual wisdom. This profound understanding of survival underscores the timeless wisdom of the Hindu Shastras, which continue to guide individuals and societies toward harmony, prosperity, and spiritual fulfillment.

~ Sultan Singh 'Jeevan'