Any Fool Can Know
The Wise Understand
My aunt, who passed away some decades back, used to say something frequently and the in last few years I understood the profoundity of it. She used to say தான் சாவனும் — கைலாசம் பார்க்கனும் : Loose English translation is “To see Kailash one has to die” . While growing up I thought it just meant that “you have to get your things done — there is no easy way out’. “Buck Stops with me” has been my motto at college and work.
As one gets older one realizes the layers of wisdom here. When I started delaying another thought struck me. The real thing here is not what she said — who said it? Aunt did not hold any educational degrees. Born in a wealthy and landed family she has seen and lived life — good and bad; pain and pleasure. She was a wise lady. Her statement any fool can know but only the wise understand the many layers. She has lived experiences that have given her immense wisdom despite not having any educational degrees. She was “worldly wise ”.
In the vast expanse of human thought, the pursuit of worldly wisdom has been a constant endeavor, guiding individuals and societies through the complexities of life. Hindu scriptures, with their profound insights into human nature and the workings of the universe, offer a rich tapestry of wisdom that has illuminated the lives of countless seekers.
The concept of worldly wisdom, or ‘lokaniti’ in Sanskrit, encompasses a broad spectrum of knowledge, including practical skills, social understanding, ethical principles, and spiritual awareness. It is the ability to navigate the world with discernment, making sound judgments, and navigating challenges with grace and resilience.
Hindu scriptures, such as the Vedas, Upanishads, and Bhagavad Gita, are replete with teachings that embody worldly wisdom. These texts provide guidance on various aspects of life, from managing relationships and finances to comprehending the nature of reality and the path to self-realization.
The statement “தான் சாவனும் — கைலாசம் பார்க்கனும் : (“To see Kailash one has to die” ) has three layers of wisdom packed here ;
- Dharma
One of the central themes in Hindu scriptures is the concept of dharma, a universal principle of righteousness and ethical conduct. Dharma encompasses not only personal morality but also social responsibility and adherence to the natural order of things. Understanding and upholding dharma is essential for attaining worldly wisdom. Here our aunt insisted that to reach our goals we (only we ) can work to achieve the goals. She insisted that the goals have to be Dharmic and the process towards the goal has to be Dharmic. And we should be solely and wholly responsible for our goals.
2. Interconnectedness
Another key aspect of Hindu wisdom is the recognition of the interconnectedness of all beings. The concept of karma, the law of cause and effect, emphasizes the consequences of our actions, both positive and negative. This understanding fosters empathy, compassion, and a sense of responsibility for one’s impact on the world. Our aunt also insisted that while relatives, friends, and well-wishers will be around us, we should not set a goal hoping they will help OR set a stretched goal (beyond our capability) hoping they will help. The buck stops with us . Our goals should be socially responsible and Dharmically viable. We must know and own the consequences of our actions.
3. Moksha
Hindu scriptures also provide guidance on achieving inner peace and contentment amidst the inevitable challenges of life. The concept of moksha, liberation from the cycle of rebirth, is not seen as an escape from the world but rather as a state of perfect wisdom and equanimity. It is stated in Mahābhārata, Vana Parva, Chapters 109 and 141 that the abodes of Śiva and Kubera are on the mount Kailāsa. So, when my aunt said “கைலாசம் பார்க்கனும்” (See Kailash)— it means that our life goals Purusharthas — Dharma, Artha, Kama and Moksha must be based on our sole effort — we own the action and not the results.
At the metaphysical level, I can have the divine darshan of Lord Siva, which is a blessing— only after my own death. Not through the death of somebody else. So, again the buck stops with me and my dharmic deeds.
The pursuit of worldly wisdom in Hindu scriptures is not merely an intellectual exercise; it is a transformative journey that encompasses both personal and societal well-being. By integrating the wisdom of these ancient texts into our lives, we can navigate the complexities of the world with greater clarity, purpose, and compassion.
I have realized Wisdom is not simply the process of gaining knowledge. It is not found in a book, class lecture, end-term examination, or dissertation defense. Wisdom is not signified by a degree or job title, no matter how high or from which school. Wisdom is the human being’s emancipation from one’s self-incurred immaturity. Immaturity is the inability to make use of one’s intellect. This immaturity is self-incurred. “ Have the courage to make use of your own intellect! is hence the motto of enlightenment” said Immanuel Kant.
Any fool can Know. The Wise Understand !!!
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