Question: How do we know what is our nature/duty? In modern times we do not do the duties of the sect we are born into. Plus if we are not from India we won’t know if we are a brahman, kshatriya, etc. So how does one know what is his/her duty? For example I am a family person. Is my duty to take care of my family members’ needs both admin and monetary needs? Do I also need to think of my duty towards my parents, my -in-laws? To me defining one’s duty is a complex issue. Once defined then we can keep doing it or at least try to.
Answer by Romapada Swami: As you have stated, defining what is duty is a complex issue, this is true. Still, there are principles to apply in determining duty.
First, duty is determined by Quality and Work, not by birth. See BG 4.13.
Second, duties are to be determined both by assessing one’s varna and ashram, not just one of them. A grhastha’s earning a livelihood by honest labor via some profession is their duty, for example, but is NOT to be taken up by a sannyasi. This is an ashram principle. In the varna dept, another obvious example of improper understanding of duty was found in Arjuna’s willingness to give up his duty as a ksatriya and to become a mendicant living on charity instead. This is an example of duty being varna-related, not just ashram-related.
Third, one can evaluate one’s own qualities to a certain degree, to see what position one generally falls within (see BG 18.42–45). However, scriptures ALWAYS indicate that one should take indication as to what one’s nature is and to understand one’s corresponding duties by receiving instructions & training from a bona-fide spiritual master. Training in performing religious duties in life is essential. Otherwise one will be speculating too much and not receiving knowledge in disciplic succession.
