Be Sharp – In Gita Verse 4.2 This supreme science was thus received through the chain of disciplic succession, and the saintly kings understood it in that way. But in course of time the succession was broken, and therefore the science as it is appears to be lost.
In the rich tapestry of spiritual wisdom, the Bhagavad Gita stands as a beacon of profound insight. Bhagavad Gita Verse 4.2, illuminates the concept of knowledge transmission through what is often termed as ‘Parampara’. This term, frequently misunderstood as mere tradition, encapsulates a more profound and nuanced process. Unlike the routine customs of tradition, Parampara signifies a continuum, a flowing lineage of wisdom passed from one enlightened soul to another.
Imagine the Ganges River, originating from Gangotri, meandering through a myriad of landscapes before merging with the ocean. Along its journey, it absorbs countless streams and tributaries, yet it remains fundamentally the Ganges. This is akin to the flow of wisdom in Parampara. It is a continuous stream, enriched yet unbroken, much like a lamp whose flame flickers and renews but remains the same light.
Imagine lighting a lamp at dusk, its flame dancing through the night, only to be extinguished come morning. Despite its constant renewal, it remains the same lamp. This embodies the essence of Parampara: a lineage of light, a continuous flame passed down through generations. In scientific terms, we might refer to this as a “continuum.” To draw a parallel, tradition can be seen as a continuum – a seamless flow of heritage and legacy.
Krishna, in his discourse with Arjuna, emphasises that this sacred knowledge was once known by the saintly kings, but over time, the chain was disrupted, and the essence of this wisdom seemed lost. Yet, Krishna does not imply that truth has vanished; rather, it is endangered, like a river lost in the desert sands. It is still there, beneath the surface, waiting to be rediscovered.
The peril of truth becoming endangered lies in the transition from direct experience to mere words. Scriptures, while valuable, are but echoes of the original truth. They are not the truth itself. The sages did not receive their wisdom from scriptures; they knew it through direct experience. This is why Krishna places emphasis on the act of saying rather than hearing. The sage must have true understanding to convey it meaningfully. Simply hearing words is not sufficient for enlightenment.
This brings us to a critical distinction: knowledge versus information. Reading scriptures can provide information, but true knowledge arises from direct experience and recognition. Just as a person who has seen the morning sun can recognise its description, one who has experienced truth can discern its presence in scriptures, despite their limitations.
Krishna’s message is clear: religion cannot be taught; it must be caught. It is an experience, not a belief. Masters throughout history have created environments for disciples to awaken their own understanding. This is not about indoctrination but about fostering an awakening. True religion transcends labels and dogmas; it is a personal journey of discovery.
In the historical context, figures like Buddha, Christ, and Mahavira were not founders of religions but teachers of universal truths. Over time, followers created religions around their teachings, often missing the essence of their messages. The succession of true understanding was broken as people clung to words rather than seeking direct experience.
In our modern world, the emphasis often lies on accumulating information rather than cultivating wisdom. We become enamoured with the words of great teachers, yet we fail to internalise their essence. Each of us has the potential to become a Buddha, a Christ, or a Mahavira, but this requires a shift from external knowledge to internal understanding. It demands a return to the source, a recognition of the delicate and subtle truth within us.
True masters encourage us to be ourselves, to cultivate our unique connection to the universe. They teach us that giving, sharing, and compassion are pathways to deeper understanding. In the act of giving, we receive more than we ever imagined. The joy of sharing is a reflection of the universal truth that we are all interconnected.
As we navigate this journey, it is crucial to remember that the path to true understanding is personal and profound. It is a journey of becoming, of awakening to the truth within. Krishna’s advice to Arjuna is timeless: do not merely follow words; be sharp, catch the essence, and embody it in action.
In this way, we can restore the broken chain of wisdom, rediscover the lost science of truth, and illuminate our lives with the timeless light of understanding.
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