Acharya Mahaprajna
To come to know the truth presents the biggest problem, ignorance of truth is at the root of all our difficulties. If man comes to know the truth, he would be free of all problems. Actually, there is no problem except the problem created by man's ignorance of truth.
It is night right now, yet I can see the lights. Electric lights are glimmering in the night. Light and darkness constitute a pair of opposites and yet there is no absolute contradiction between the two. Both are present at the same time. Co-existence and co-presence are both necessary. The doctrine of probability expounds contradictory elements. It is the simultaneous acceptance of two contradictory facts which constitutes syadvada ('the doctrine of relativism') and anekanta (the doctrine of non-absolutism'). The flowering of anekanta and syadvada is co-existence.
Truth is very extensive and words are limited. Words are used to express the truth but these only serve to limit it. That is why the scriptures which are meant to resolve problem, themselves become a problem.
If we get to the truth, there is a possibility of harmonising rival interests. If new values find a place in today's society, many problems can be resolved. Acharya Sri Tulsi talks about harmony and synthesis. He talks, first and foremost, of truth and spirituality.
If a man has no urge to find the truth, if he has no faith in it, he cannot be virtuous. The door to progress and development will then be closed to him. Therefore, at the very outset, know the truth and accept it. Remove the coverings of the mind, clean the heart of all rubbish, and let knowledge be refined with pure perception. Coordination between knowledge, vision and character is possible only through clear perception. One must have a strong urge to find out the truth. Without inward yearning and curiosity, a man will not be able to make any progress.
