What are the core duties ( Karma ) of humans, according to Sanatan Dharma?

In Sanatana Dharma (also known as Hinduism), the core duties of a human being are described in the ancient scriptures known as the Vedas and the Smritis. These duties are often referred to as the "Purusharthas" or the fourfold goals of life. They are:

1. Dharma (Righteousness and Duty): Dharma refers to moral and ethical principles that guide individuals in leading a righteous and virtuous life. It encompasses duties towards oneself, family, society, and the environment. Practicing dharma involves upholding truth, honesty, compassion, and justice.

2. Artha (Prosperity and Material Well-being): Artha relates to the pursuit of material wealth, security, and success. It involves fulfilling one's worldly responsibilities, providing for oneself and one's family, and creating a stable foundation for a comfortable life.

3. Kama (Desire and Pleasure): Kama refers to the pursuit of desires, passions, and aesthetic enjoyment. It encompasses the fulfillment of legitimate desires and the appreciation of beauty, art, love, and relationships. However, it should be pursued within the boundaries of dharma and without causing harm to oneself or others.

4. Moksha (Liberation and Spiritual Enlightenment): Moksha is the ultimate goal of life and represents liberation from the cycle of birth and death. It involves realizing one's true nature, attaining spiritual enlightenment, and merging with the divine. Practices such as meditation, self-realization, and the study of spiritual texts aid in the journey towards moksha.

These four purusharthas provide a framework for leading a balanced and fulfilling life. It emphasizes the importance of living in alignment with dharma, while pursuing legitimate material and emotional needs. Ultimately, the ultimate goal is to attain spiritual liberation and realize one's true nature.

It is worth mentioning that the specific duties and responsibilities of individuals can vary based on their societal roles, such as being a student, householder, or renunciant, and their stage of life, known as Ashramas (Brahmacharya, Grihastha, Vanaprastha, and Sannyasa). Additionally, the understanding and interpretation of these duties may vary among different schools of thought within Sanatana Dharma.