Feb 8, 2009

Knowledge

There are two kinds of knowledge which concern us here. First is intellectual knowledge – words, ideas, concepts and beliefs, centered in the brain. This is individual “truth,” every one having their unique point of view, not always coinciding with Truth itself. It is I. It is a limited kind of knowledge.

Then there is experiential knowledge – beyond words, beyond comprehension by I; mystical, centered in the heart. This is universal Truth, the other side of Reality (both sides comprising Haiku God). It is Not-I.

So why read the Bible, Koran, or any other sacred book when the only thing you have to do in order to discover and experience Truth is to follow the golden rule? Then you don't have to believe or search any more, because you will know. Love. (Not- I).

Easier said than done (but worth trying?)!

e

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

What and/or whose Golden Rule? Tricky business.

Editor said...

Good point - to me, the golden rule is to treat others (and the planet) the way we would like to be treated - in short, to practice virtue:

"To practice virtue is to selflessly offer assistance to others, giving without limitation one's time, abilities, and possessions in service, whenever and wherever needed, without prejudice concerning the identity of those in need."

From Saying #4 of the Hua Hu Ching as interpreted by Brian Walker.

I believe that if we practice as above, we will gain experiential knowledge of not-I - love.

Anonymous said...

Political ads.
Gag me with a front-loader.
30-second lies.

Anonymous said...

evening cookout
the frying pan hangs
with the soup ladle