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be swayed by the convincing arguments of another. However, when we have realized the nature of Truth through practice, and have experienced it directly, there is no question of wavering or changing our position since we have seen and experienced the Truth for ourselves. We have reached the stage of experience and the knowledge is beyond argument
Vedanta explains the steps of knowledge metaphorically: the knowledge gained through listening can be compared to a household fire. The knowledge gained through analysis and speculation is analogous to lightning. And the knowledge of diligent meditation practice is like volcanic fire in the depths of the ocean. Just as a common fire can be extinguished by drops of rain, in the same way, a person's theoretical knowledge, gained simply by listening, can easily be confounded by persuasive arguments. But, the knowledge attained through analysis and contemplation becomes like the force of lightning, which cannot simply be extinguished by water. Even so, just as lightning by nature is unstable, so the knowledge gained through thoughtful speculation is still precarious. But the knowledge acquired through repeated meditation can be compared to an underwater volcanic fire which will not even be extinguished by the ocean of water surrounding it. Just so, knowledge gained
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