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Religion in everyday life
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others who give up neither (and remain steadfast in religion). 1
This classification of human beings has a psychological foundation. What is noteworthy is that among human beings, he who has good appearance as well as righteousness is considered superior. That life which is lacking in either of these is not an ideal one. An ideal life is that which is rich in knowledge as well as character. It is in the integration of these two qualities that peace and joy are found. A life with knowledge but without character is like a flower which is beautiful but without fragrance. On the other hand a life of good conduct without knowledge is as incomplete. Life should not remain one-sided. A life which is multifaceted is an ideal life.
Indian culture considers knowledge as well as conduct to be integral aspects of a holistic life. Often a question is raised in philosophical circles - is religion more important for a progressive life or is philosophy. In the West, religion is a different stream from philosophy. But according to me, in Indian culture, there is no gap between religion and philosophy; here religion cannot be devoid of philosophy and philosophy cannot sustain without religion. Indian culture believes in a holistic and multi-pronged approach. For the progress and evolution of mankind, faith and logic have to co-exist. Faith without logic and logic without faith have no place in Indian culture. Rather it believes that faith finds its culmination in logic and logic meets its goal in faith. Faith is the foundation for religion but logic is the primary basis for faith. So the heart and mind must function in unison together towards a holistic culmination of an ideal life. The light of intelligence illuminates every beat of the heart and the power of faith strengthens every logic of the mind. If these two aspects do not synchronize, human beings cannot rise above darkness. Speaking of an ideal life, let us look at how an aspirant can enrich every aspect of his life? What is the path of an ideal life for a householder and an ascetic? How can we lead a life of vigilance and wisdom?
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cattāri purisajāyā - rūve ṇāma ege jahai no dhammam, dhamme ṇāma ege jahai no rūvam. ege rūve vi jahai, dhammampi, ege no rūvam jahai no dhammam - Vyavahāra Sūtra 10
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