What is the source of true knowledge?
In the previous article, we discussed “hedonism” and in this article, we will discuss the philosophical idea – “epistemology”.
Epistemology, is the branch of philosophy concerned with the nature and scope of knowledge.
For centuries, philosophers have grappled with the fundamental question of what truly constitutes knowledge. This enduring inquiry has challenged thinkers across generations, prompting deep reflections on the nature of reality, the limits of human perception, and the reliability of our beliefs.
From Plato’s emphasis on reason and innate ideas to the empiricism of Aristotle and later thinkers, various schools of thought have emerged, each with its own unique perspective on the nature and acquisition of knowledge.
In Vedic tradition however, it is established since times immemorial – that there are only three valid sources of knowledge. In this article we will explore this Vedic perspective.
Three primary sources of knowledge:
Pratyaksha (Direct Perception): Knowledge gained through the five senses.
Anumana (Inference): Knowledge derived through logical reasoning.
Agama (Vedic Revelation): Knowledge acquired in deep meditative state by Vedic Rishi
Direct perception:
Five senses: In Sanskrit, Pratyaksha signifies the direct perception of reality through our five senses: sight, hearing, smell, taste, and touch. It forms the bedrock of our understanding of the world around us. Through direct sensory experiences, we gather information about objects, their properties, and their interactions. For instance, we see a tree, hear the chirping of birds, smell a flower, taste a fruit, and feel the warmth of the sun. These sensory inputs provide us with immediate and unmediated knowledge of our surroundings.
Beyond Sensory Experience: While Pratyaksha is undeniably crucial for our initial understanding of the world, Vedic tradition recognizes its limitations. It emphasizes that relying solely on sensory experiences will not provide us with the complete picture of reality.
The Limitations of Senses: Our senses are inherently limited. They can be deceived by illusions, hallucinations, and varying perspectives. For example, a mirage in the desert might appear to be water to a thirsty traveller, but it’s an illusion.
The Subjectivity of Perception: Sensory experiences are subjective and can vary from individual to individual. Our perceptions are influenced by our past experiences, cultural backgrounds, and even our current emotional states.
The Unseen Reality: Vedic philosophy postulates the existence of a deeper reality that transcends the realm of sensory perception.
Inference:
Logic: Anumana, in Sanskrit, refers to the process of acquiring knowledge through logical reasoning and inference. It involves drawing conclusions about unobserved facts based on observed facts and established relationships between them. Anumana is built upon the principle of observing a particular phenomenon and then inferring a general rule or principle from it. This involves identifying a unique and invariable relationship between two phenomena. For example, we have observed that fire is typically accompanied by smoke. Therefore, when we see smoke in the distance, we can infer the presence of fire, even if we cannot directly see it.
The Limitations of Logic: Logic is a powerful tool, but it operates within certain frameworks and assumptions. It can be influenced by biases, preconceived notions, and the limitations of our own understanding.
Experiential Reality: Vedic philosophy postulates the existence of a deeper reality that transcends the realm of logic and reason. Logic & reasoning is not adequate to discern subjective experiences, phenomena of consciousness, abstract ideas like truth, morality, beauty …etc. The reality is filled with such entities which cannot be fully grasped through purely intellectual means.
Beyond the Physical and Mental
Higher plane of existence: Vedic tradition acknowledges that physical reality exists which is grasped by physical senses (pratyaksha) and mental reality exists which is grasped by logic (anumana). It also acknowledges a higher plane ofexistence which is the adobe ofsubjective experiences, phenomena of consciousness, abstract ideas like truth, morality, beauty …etc.
Agama: It refers to the knowledge revealed to ancient sages (Rishis) through deep meditation and spiritual insight. These sages, often described as enlightened beings, experienced profound truths about the universe, the nature of reality, and the path to liberation. This knowledge is experienced only in the higher plane of existence i.e., beyond the realm of physical and mental. The entire Vedic spirituality is centred around – enquiry into this higher plane of existence, experience of which is canonized by Rishis in Vedas. The Vedic tradition expanded this knowledge making it more and more accessible to lay people and as a result the scriptures in the Vedic tradition are enormous. This entirety of knowledge in Vedic tradition is considered – a valid source of knowledge when it comes to existence beyond the realm of physical & mental.
Key takeaways:
1. A Sadhaka must understand that beyond Pratyaksha & Anumana, the Vedic knowledge is the true source of knowledge and is essential to transcend the limitations of our physical senses and mental constructs.
2. By delving into the depths of Vedic knowledge, we can tap into higher planes of consciousness and experience abstract realities beyond the ordinary. This is the key to spiritual revelations and ultimate liberation.
In the next article, we will discuss the philosophical idea “Rationalism”.
Madhwesh K
Vedic Tribe
