Artha (; Sanskrit: अर्थ; Tamil: poruḷ) is one of the four aims of human life in Indian philosophy
The word artha literally translates as “meaning, sense, goal, purpose or essence” depending on the context
Artha is also a broader concept in the scriptures of Hinduism
As a concept, it has multiple meanings, all of which imply “means of life”, activities and resources that enable one to be in a state one wants to be in
Artha applies to both an individual and a government
In an individual’s context, artha includes wealth, career, activity to make a living, financial security and economic prosperity
The proper pursuit of artha is considered an important aim of human life in Hinduism
At government level, artha includes social, legal, economic and worldly affairs
Proper Arthashastra is considered an important and necessary objective of government
In Hindu traditions, Artha is connected to the three other aspects and goals of human life: Dharma (virtuous, proper, moral life), Kama (pleasure, sensuality, emotional fulfillment) and Moksha (liberation, release, self-actualization)
Together, these four mutually non-exclusive aims of life are called Puruṣārtha