Knowledge of the Self | Apastamba Dharmasutra

Apastamba provides the following explanation regarding Dharma, that they are the "accepted customary", or that the Dharmas that are accepted or agreed upon by those who know dharma. But what exactly is Dharma? To that, he says, “It is difficult to gain mastery of dharma by means of scriptures alone, but by acting according to the markers one can master it.

And the markers in this case are as follows: he should model his conduct after that which is unanimously approved in all regions by Aryas who have been properly trained, who are elderly and self-possessed, and who are neither greedy nor deceitful" [Dharmasutras - Patrick Olivelle]

A man is expected to practice the disciplines relating to inner self, those that have a positive effect on him and also remove him from mental digression. A shloka is provided that aims to lead a person to realize the inner self, following which a list of attributes are provided, that need to be developed by anyone who seeks to better themselves.

Apastamba lists the following as the qualities that are necessary in every man:

• Refraining from anger, excitement, rage, greed, perplexity, hypocrisy, and malice

• Speaking the truth

• Refraining from overeating, calumny, and envy

• Sharing, liberality, rectitude, gentleness, tranquility, self-control, amity with all creatures, Yoga, Arya-like conduct, benevolence, and contentment