Sadachar And Shishtachar As Per Hinduism

“Sadachar” and “shishtachar” are important terms frequently mentioned in many scriptures of Hinduism. Many people mistakenly opine that these two words are synonymous with each other. But, it is not so. While both involving praciticing of samanya dharma, they are substantially different as we will see later in this article.

Though both “sadachar” and “shishtachar” are related to right conduct and appropriate behavior; yet, they are different. And, it is this difference that this article is going to elaborate upon. Firstly, let us focus on getting a basic points understanding of “sadachar.”

Sadachar – Key points
These are some salient aspects that provide a basic knowledge of what sadachar is.

• Sadachar is confined not just to the behavior of an individual that can be seen by everyone. It speaks of things like a lack of hypocrisy and possessing integrity, too, which cannot be noticed straight away.

• A human being sticking to sadachar always displays good manners, and they are amicable in their interactions with other people. In a way you can say the practice of samanya dharma is sadachar.

• One has to consider laziness as the biggest enemy and should understand that the greatest friend of a person is hard work.

• Even though speaking the truth is a significant ethical principle, individuals still must not follow that blindly. Whatever is spoken should be suitable for the prevalent situations. So, we should use our discretion and avoid speaking either a bitter truth or a sweet lie.

• Human beings have to appreciate the significance of determination and a firm resolve, for attaining success.

• People are necessitated to be aware that needlessly delaying work and postponement serve no purpose. These things shall only lead to problems that could have easily been avoided.

• We should strive to respect our teachers and parents, through words as well as deeds.

• No individual can be happy if they have a dispute with a genuine friend. We need to make a serious note of this pivotal aspect. One should put all efforts to make sure that there is no scope for an altercation with friends

Shishtachar and Sadachar – Differences
Contrary to popular belief, the term “shishtachar” is not the same as “sadachar,” though they look similar. This section of the article provides an understanding of this difference.

• It can be said that “sadachar” denotes only the basics of good behavior, to which everyone is expected to adhere. But, “shishtachar” refers to the stringent, higher standards of right conduct. It’s not that easy for ordinary folks to follow these principles.

• The above point can be best understood with an example. The standards followed by monks and people in the Sanyasa ashrama of their lives can be classed as “shishtachar.” We cannot ask common people/ younger individuals to incorporate these guidelines into their daily lives.

• Likewise, we also have instances where persons do not formally take any renunciation vows, and yet adhere to the topmost standards of ethical behavior. This comes under the “shishtachar” category.

• “Shishtachar” is something that can be achieved only when the individual has a total commitment towards that. One can reach the standards of shishtachar only after persevering for a long duration. It is not for everyone. But, going with the guidelines of “sadachar” is comparatively easier. Conforming to the “sadachar” norms is necessary for human beings, for maintaining peace and harmony in the World.

The topic “differences between sadachar and shishtachar” is not an easy topic to write on due to ignorance of the ancient Bharatiya concepts in the current world. When we compare sadachar, shishtachar and samanya dharma – in a way they are very similar. So it adds to the confusion. Yet, a sincere attempt has been made to cover the most significant aspects of the subject so that it gives a decent overview of sadachar and shishtachar.

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Note: Also read about ethics and values as per Hindu Sanathana Dharma – Samanya Dharma, Apad Dharma, Vishesha Dharma