The ancient legal system was based upon the concept of supremacy of dharma. Dharma is the Sanskrit expression of the widest import. It cannot be defined but can only be explained. For instance, the word "dharma" is used to mean justice (Nyaya), what is right in a given circumstance, moral values of right, pious obligations of individuals, righteous conduct in every sphere of activity, being helpful to other living beings, giving charity to individuals in need of it or to a public cause or alms of the needy, natural qualities or characteristics or properties of living beings and things, duty and law as also constitutional law. Dharma is for the stability of society, the maintenance of social order and the general well-being and progress of humankind.