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Ethics for life religion

CHENNAI: Great texts are valuable storehouses of infinite knowledge and mankind has been engaged in the process of unravelling the riches contained in them. Sage Vyasa’s Brahma Sutras are cryptic and enigmatic statements containing the highest philosophical truths that cannot be known without guidance and interpretation from preceptors.

That such a text has given room for different philosophical interpretations is proof of the fact that what one gains from a text or how one interprets it depends on the individual’s principles, beliefs and perspectives. Adi Sankara, Ramanuja and Madhwa advocated interpretations for this text based on the philosophy each of them wished to propagate — Advaita, Visishtadvaita and Dvaita.

Knowledge of spiritual truths is attained only when it is sought with humility, sincerity and faith, since this Jnana cannot be intellectually grasped but has to be experientially realised, said Sri A. Velayudhan in a lecture on Tirukkural.

When knowledge is thus transmitted, it retains its wholesomeness and is learnt in its fullness. There is no room for misconceptions and misinterpretations.

The ancient Tirukural contains basic lessons for life in simple Tamil and has been a source of inspiration to generations of people. Its value as a spiritual guide to mankind lies in the forthright statement of morals and ethics for all times. Its influence has fostered the cultural and social life of people by setting a high moral and ethical standard of living for people.

The four common goals of life, dharma, wealth, desire and liberation, are dealt with exhaustively and yet the emphasis on dharma as the basis of all living is central to the text. Seeking wealth or happiness is not to be avoided, but one has to do so only through right means.

The index of a person’s worth is determined by integrity alone and not wealth, status or scholarship. In matters of worship, sincerity and faith are more important than ostentation and show. The text celebrates the endless variety and differences in creation without discrimination and prejudices and thereby helps to cultivate love and compassion towards all beings .

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