________________
DUTY OR MOTIVE IN KARMA
of the soul from every bondage. That which leads to such freedom is elevating, that which keeps one in bondage is degrading. Therefore it is said by Hindu philosophers: 'That which elevates the soul, which brings prosperity and absolute freedom, both here and hereafter, is true duty. This ideal of duty is like the pole-star which points the way to the ship of the human soul in the troubled waters of the ocean of activity, gradually guiding it across the deep sea to the land of perfect freedom. We have only to be constantly mindful of this one fact, that to be unselfish is our sole duty, and apply it to our daily round, to be sure that our highest duty is being accomplished. In ordinary life we are confronted by various kinds of duties towards ourselves, towards our family, our neighbour, towards society, country, humanity, and finally, as the culmination, towards all living creatures; for the one idea which is universal and common to all in every country
115
