 Already in the earliest Vedic texts, "Ṛta" as an ethical principle is linked with the notion of cosmic retribution.A central concept of the Ṛgveda is that created beings fulfil their true natures when they follow the path set for them by the ordinances of "Ṛta", and failing to follow those ordinances was thought to be responsible for the appearance of various forms of calamity and suffering.Committing one's actions to the governance of "Ṛta", referred to as its ""Dharma"", was therefore understood as imperative in ensuring one's own well-being.