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सही-गलत का फैसला कैसे करें? || आचार्य प्रशांत, वेदांत महोत्सव ऋषिकेश में (2022)
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3 years ago
Doubt
Curiosity
Uncertainty
Conditioning
Maya
Self-Introspection
Anekantavada
Description

Acharya Prashant addresses the questioner's doubt about his actions, explaining that this doubt is a positive sign. He suggests reframing what is perceived as 'doubt' (shanka) into 'curiosity' (jigyasa). He questions the desire for a state of absolute certainty where no questions arise about one's actions, stating that such questioning is a mark of inner honesty and alertness. This state of inquiry can be inconvenient because the lazy and fearful mind prefers the comfort of conclusions. However, curiosity prevents this false comfort, keeping the investigation of truth alive. To progress and avoid falsehood, one must continuously examine their actions. Acharya Prashant advises practicing living in a state of non-decision (anirnay). While initially uncomfortable, this path leads to growth. He encourages the questioner to embrace uncertainty, explaining that for a true seeker, nothing is final; they remain open and receptive. In contrast, ignorant individuals cling to their beliefs and resist new perspectives. He mentions the Jain principle of Anekantavada to illustrate the folly of holding absolute conclusions. Regarding the dilemma between physical activities and spiritual pursuits, Acharya Prashant reassures the questioner that activities like playing sports are beneficial. He humorously notes that he himself might be playing while the questioner feels guilty for the same. He emphasizes that knowledge gained from listening must be applied in life. Merely listening without engaging in life's activities renders the knowledge useless and can lead to mental imbalance. This over-enthusiasm, he warns, is a trick of Maya (illusion) that can quickly lead to discouragement. Therefore, a balance between listening, understanding, and applying knowledge in life is essential.