Philosophy of Vis'istAdvaita

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Dear Bhagavatas,

NamO nArAyaNA.

 

Many fail to recognize that the Philosophy of Vis'istAdvaita is holistic,

structured and rational. Most fail to recognize this feature for the

following two reasons:

1. they are unable to differentiate between philosophy and religion

2. they undertake a study of the material in a perfunctory manner.

 

The philosophy of Vis'istAdvaita is NOT SOME FLUID STORY that

can be interpreted in many different ways. However, by reading

some of the speculative postings, one may reach this most improper

conclusion. The philosophy of VIs'istadvaita uses rational premises,

axioms, and definitions to put forth a valid argument. It is theoretically

possible for there to be many mutually exclusive valid arguments that

seek to explain the nature of reality, but only one can be true.

The result being, acceptance of one will ultimately be based

on belief.

 

When dealing with the physical world one can talk in terms of a provable

argument, i.e., an argument that relies solely on axioms and definitions.

However, when we talk about nature of reality, we cannot do without

using rational premises (because the subject matter is beyond the realm

of perception. )

 

Philosophic issues have concrete and rational answers.

When one is trying to obtain an asnwer to a philosophical query,

related to a particular philosophy x, one has to work within the

framework of that philosophy (i.e, one has to accpet the rational

premises and definitions of that philosophy.) Discussing these issues

in a cursory manner;i.e., not staying within the framework of the

philosophy will lead to misleading conclusions.

 

adiyEn ramanuja dasan,

Venkat

krishNArpaNam