Virtues Promoted By Dharma – Asteyam

“Asteyam” is a virtue that is of utmost significance as per Hindu Dharma. It is a Sanskrit word which can be translated as “non-stealing.” The scope of “asteyam” is not just restricted to refraining from stealing things that belong to other people and which carry some value.

“Non-stealing” in Sanatana Dharma is a broader concept. It also teaches that one should not even have thoughts related to stealing things that do not belong to them. The opposite word of “asteyam” is “steyam,” which stands for stealing.

• Hinduism clearly states that “asteyam” is a virtue that needs to be inculcated by every individual. It is a part of Samanya Dharma. People from all age groups and social backgrounds must follow the norm of “non-stealing.”
• Hindu Dharma states that violating ‘non-stealing’ does not always have to involve violent means to take possession of others’ things. Fraudulent actions, without any violence, aimed at snatching others’ belongings or properties are stealing, too. When a person makes false claims or promises to others to misappropriate their property, it is “stealing.” These unscrupulous persons deviate from “asteyam.”
• Even if a person accidentally finds some valuable thing, they need to adhere to the principles of “non-stealing.” They have to make a sincere effort to hand it over to the owner. If that’s not possible, the item must be handed over to the relevant authorities along with all pertinent details.
• “Asteyam” proclaims that it’s not enough if a person refrains from things like stealing and deceiving others for their gain. People must also make sure that they directly or indirectly don’t encourage others to indulge in these unethical actions.

• Sanatana Dharma emphatically states that when a person steals, it highlights their weakness. They cannot earn wealth and acquire properties through honest hard work. That’s why they turn to easier options, such as stealing. Based on that, there is a logical implication specific to a person who staunchly follows “asteyam.” They have confidence in their skills to earn whatever they seek ethically.
• Here, we have to understand that many seemingly small acts can be called “steyam.” As an example, a person buys an item and mistakenly pays an amount slightly more than the actual cost. The shopkeeper is aware of this but prefers to keep the extra money with themselves, instead of returning it. This may not appear as big a deviation as actual stealing. Yet, this action of the shop owner very much comes under “steyam.”
• Integrating the virtue of “asteyam” into everyday life is indispensable for persons who are serious about attaining spiritual growth. Sticking to the principles of “non-stealing” is necessary for an individual to develop detachment towards worldly matters. And it’s only when this detachment is present that a person can grow spiritually. Achieving self-realization won’t be that tough for them.
• In contemporary times, the definition of “steyam” has widened. The definition includes many new things that didn’t exist when the scriptures first spoke of “steyam” and “asteyam.” For instance, respecting intellectual property rights and copyrights is now encompassed under the scope of “asteyam.” Violating it is tantamount to stealing, punishable by law. Conforming to the Dharmic principles of “non-stealing” is now more necessary than ever before for maintaining orderliness in society.

You may also Like to read:

• Samanya Dharma – A Beginners Introduction
• Virtues Promoted By Dharma – Samatva, Ahimsa, Shaucha, Titiksha, Asteyam, Seva, Vairagya, Anasuya, Sabhyata, Santosha
• What Prevents A Person From Being Dharmic?
• Dharma Meaning In English