shri ramakrishna on scholarship -book knowledge !

[Guest guest]

Hi Adi:

 

In discussing the relative merits of spiritual

book-knowledge and experiential-knowledge, you asked:

"does this mean we should abandon reading 'scriptures'

and books altigether?"

 

Well, I hope I don't come off like a one-trick pony,

but my answer would be the same as it was for the

"Devi Mahatmyam" translation debate: It depends on the

devotee.

 

One person might find that lots of scripture and

theology have a bhakti-inducing effect on the mind

(I'd include myself in this category). I feel things

falling into place, understandings and beliefs being

confirmed and strengthened. It becomes a part of me.

 

When I sit down to meditate, my mind is not

"over-crowded with thoughts borrowed from others"

(obviously not the words of a bibliophile!) -- it is

clear and relaxed. Reading and meditation are two

seperate experiences, each of which can enhance the

other.

 

For me. For other sorts of persons, all of those words

might be a bunch a noise, radio static that merely

distracts them from direct experience of the Divine.

That's OK too, Goddess made all of us different, and

if a certain approach to Her doesn't work -- well, why

waste time pursuing it? Follow a method that *does*

work.

 

Ramakrishna speaks of "those who, after studying all

the scriptures and sciences, have come to realise that

they know nothing." Well, it's long been said, in many

cultures, that the wisest persons are distinguished by

their awareness that they are not so wise. Honest

study is almost invariably a humbling experience.

 

But gain, it's a choice: If book knowledge makes one

prideful -- or if it jumbles or inflames the mind --

then it is dangerous to spiritual advancement. If it

enhances devotion and inner peace, it is a boon.

 

Aum Maatangyai Namahe

 

 

 

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