Jana was sitting in his small but cosy living room. His wife Suja sat across from him, while his 10 year old daughter Vinny sat on the carpet at their feet. Their teenage son Jeevan was sprawled on the armchair.
Suja: “I heard you met up with your old boss today?”
Jana smiled to himself, “He is in trouble now”.
Suja looked at him.
Jana: “I warned him many times that this would happen, but he never listened”
Vinny, who had been silent for while spoke suddenly : “Why do you say that?”
Jana just grunted.
Jeevan looked at him for a moment.
Suja : “He is such a nice man. And he deserves it”
Vinny : “You always say such things”
Jana : “That’s not the point at all. He just pushes his luck, and this time he pushed it too far”
Vinny : “That’s a nasty thing to say”
Suja: “Of course we feel good when such things happen to people we know.”
Vinny: “I just don’t think that’s right”
Jana : “What do you think we should do ? Rescue him ?”
Suja: “Is he at Kamunting ?”
Jana: “He could go to hell for all I care”
Vinny: “I just don’t want to be a part of this. Just leave me out. Bye Nimmi.”.
Suja: “Ok, Bye Sangeeta. We will meet up sometime.”
Jana: “Well, Prabhu, you go ahead and help him, I wont. Bye.”
Jana turned to his wife: “Krishnan is in trouble with loan sharks. Prabhu wants to help out. I told him I am not lifting a finger. Krishnan, he is incorrigible.”
Vinny: “Mom, I hate Nimmi. She is such a gossip.”
Suja: “Jana dear, I just spoke to Sangeeta. Her ex-boss Vino, remember him ? He has been promoted to Branch Manager. He is posted to Kamunting, so near his hometown. So lucky.”
Jana grunted. But he didn’t hear anything. He was dialing again. Vinny fiddled with the iPod. Jeevan glanced at them, and went back to his messaging. Suja picked up the Astro remote.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Friday, March 28, 2008
Are all religions the same?
Recently I came across an article by Dr. Frank Morales, who is a well read authority, whose fields of expertise include Philosophy of Religion, Hindu Studies, Sanskrit, History of Religion, Comparative Theology, Contemporary South Asian Politics, and the interface between Hinduism and modernity. Wow.
He has also been a practicing orthodox Hindu for 30 years, and is an ordained Hindu priest. But he is not Indian !
The article basically talks about the supposed Hindu teaching that all religions are equal…that all religions are the same, with the same purpose, goal and object of ultimate devotion.
Dr Morales argues eloquently that this is not so.
He says Hinduism is tolerant, patient and welcoming of all religions. But this does not amount to admitting that all religions are exactly the same.
Dr Morales defines a Hindu as an individual who accepts as authoritative the religious guidance of the Vedic scriptures, and who strives to live in accordance with Dharma, God’s divine laws as revealed in the Vedic scriptures.
He identifies three important factors that differentiate the nature of various religions:
a) The Problem : an analysis of the fundamental existential dilemma that human beings face,
b) The Solution : the proposed escape from our existential problem,
c) The Absolute : the nature of the ultimate Reality.
The following is worth quoting (I have taken the liberty of striking out some of the more difficult words, to ease the pain of reading Dr Morales original text):
“Different religions are clearly aiming at different, most often mutually exclusive, goals. For Judaism, Christianity and Islam, the human person is seen as a sinner who is in need of repentance, divine forgiveness and renewal. The Absolute for them is a single Godhead.
For Buddhism, it is taught that the human person is unnecessarily experiencing suffering due to mistakenly perceiving herself as an enduring, self-conscious entity. Liberation, in Buddhism, begins with the realization that there is no eternal self (no soul), but only momentary states that give the illusion of a permanent person. The final extinction of the human person in the form of nirvana (literally "blowing out") is thus the goal. The Absolute is correlated with Shunya, the void, emptiness. For Buddhism, there is no God, no soul, nor any other permanent metaphysical reality.
For Hinduism, the human dilemma is caused by ignorance (avidya) of our true state as permanent spiritual beings (atman), and our illusion (maya) of separation from the Absolute. Liberation (moksha) is achieved by transcending this illusion, and by realizing our inherent union (yoga) with the Absolute. Speaking in the most general of terms, the Absolute in Hinduism is termed Brahman.
For Jainism, the human dilemma is caused by our mistaken notion that we are dependent, temporary beings with limited knowledge. Liberation (kevala) is achieved when we realize our true nature as independent, eternal and omniscient beings. For Jainism, there is no God, but rather independently existing liberated persons are the Absolute.”
Dr Morales argues that these different religions are wholly irreconcilable. It is as logically impossible to hold that these religions are all true, or even that any two of these religions are simultaneously true, he says. Is it then his implication that there is only one True religion ?
The point is whether Hinduism teaches that all religions are the same. I think Hinduism or Sanatana Dharma is unique and different from all other religions, and here I agree with the author. I also agree that Hinduism in itself does not teach that all religions are equal… Could this be because Hinduism predates almost all other religions ?
But all religions assert that their own exclusive path holds a clearer insight into Truth, and a surer means for salvation, than does any other faith on earth. So the more important points is whether we can accept that other religions are valid paths to the “Truth” ? This is the spiritual view we are taking.
Here I believe that all religions are right. But, this is not a zero sum game. It need not be that there is only one “right” religion and the rest are wrong , or less right. Taking the Mountain metaphor, I would say:
"Truth lies at the summit of a very high mountain. There are many diverse paths to reach the top of the mountain, and thus attain the one supreme goal. Some paths are shorter, some longer. The path itself is unique to the person following it, for the given point in his evolutionary life (over many lifetimes), and each one must aspire to follow his given path. The truly important thing is that seekers all follow their respective given paths to reach the top of the mountain."
He has also been a practicing orthodox Hindu for 30 years, and is an ordained Hindu priest. But he is not Indian !
The article basically talks about the supposed Hindu teaching that all religions are equal…that all religions are the same, with the same purpose, goal and object of ultimate devotion.
Dr Morales argues eloquently that this is not so.
He says Hinduism is tolerant, patient and welcoming of all religions. But this does not amount to admitting that all religions are exactly the same.
Dr Morales defines a Hindu as an individual who accepts as authoritative the religious guidance of the Vedic scriptures, and who strives to live in accordance with Dharma, God’s divine laws as revealed in the Vedic scriptures.
He identifies three important factors that differentiate the nature of various religions:
a) The Problem : an analysis of the fundamental existential dilemma that human beings face,
b) The Solution : the proposed escape from our existential problem,
c) The Absolute : the nature of the ultimate Reality.
The following is worth quoting (I have taken the liberty of striking out some of the more difficult words, to ease the pain of reading Dr Morales original text):
“Different religions are clearly aiming at different, most often mutually exclusive, goals. For Judaism, Christianity and Islam, the human person is seen as a sinner who is in need of repentance, divine forgiveness and renewal. The Absolute for them is a single Godhead.
For Buddhism, it is taught that the human person is unnecessarily experiencing suffering due to mistakenly perceiving herself as an enduring, self-conscious entity. Liberation, in Buddhism, begins with the realization that there is no eternal self (no soul), but only momentary states that give the illusion of a permanent person. The final extinction of the human person in the form of nirvana (literally "blowing out") is thus the goal. The Absolute is correlated with Shunya, the void, emptiness. For Buddhism, there is no God, no soul, nor any other permanent metaphysical reality.
For Hinduism, the human dilemma is caused by ignorance (avidya) of our true state as permanent spiritual beings (atman), and our illusion (maya) of separation from the Absolute. Liberation (moksha) is achieved by transcending this illusion, and by realizing our inherent union (yoga) with the Absolute. Speaking in the most general of terms, the Absolute in Hinduism is termed Brahman.
For Jainism, the human dilemma is caused by our mistaken notion that we are dependent, temporary beings with limited knowledge. Liberation (kevala) is achieved when we realize our true nature as independent, eternal and omniscient beings. For Jainism, there is no God, but rather independently existing liberated persons are the Absolute.”
Dr Morales argues that these different religions are wholly irreconcilable. It is as logically impossible to hold that these religions are all true, or even that any two of these religions are simultaneously true, he says. Is it then his implication that there is only one True religion ?
The point is whether Hinduism teaches that all religions are the same. I think Hinduism or Sanatana Dharma is unique and different from all other religions, and here I agree with the author. I also agree that Hinduism in itself does not teach that all religions are equal… Could this be because Hinduism predates almost all other religions ?
But all religions assert that their own exclusive path holds a clearer insight into Truth, and a surer means for salvation, than does any other faith on earth. So the more important points is whether we can accept that other religions are valid paths to the “Truth” ? This is the spiritual view we are taking.
Here I believe that all religions are right. But, this is not a zero sum game. It need not be that there is only one “right” religion and the rest are wrong , or less right. Taking the Mountain metaphor, I would say:
"Truth lies at the summit of a very high mountain. There are many diverse paths to reach the top of the mountain, and thus attain the one supreme goal. Some paths are shorter, some longer. The path itself is unique to the person following it, for the given point in his evolutionary life (over many lifetimes), and each one must aspire to follow his given path. The truly important thing is that seekers all follow their respective given paths to reach the top of the mountain."
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Weakened by the weekend
Friday night. The weekend loomed. My thoughts were of the EVENT, which had a dramatic impact due to its dogma. The EVENT itself required a thorough reassessment, using authentic definitive methodologies. By no means was it an exaggeration to say that the stereotypes and false notions we encounter obviously present a grotesque philosophical foundation, with inexplicable mysteries clouding the time horizon. More disturbing, wild misconceptions are prevalent, purportedly giving an alarmingly peculiar ennui. The EVENT presented concepts which ascribed experientially tangible yearning for peace. And this in itself artificially transformed the supposed foundation stone in a dogmatic self-defeating philosophy. As I lay awake contemplating this relativism in infantile self-revulsion, Saturday dawned.
As the day wore on, zealously intrinsic fallacies wrought havoc. My inborn sensibility was searching frantically for strenuously convincing reasons and a cogent philosophical explanation. But the fallacy was alarmingly simplistic. The EVENT weighed on my mind, already riddled with doctrines from all angles of human synonymy (if there is such a word).
Saturday night. Ha ha. But more of the same. More sectarian bending over backwards, unapologetically celebrating our headlong rush to devolve the transcendent singular uniqueness thrust upon us. The strong impetus to discern common features was a form of chauvinism in itself. It was cherished, despite its damaging inadequacies. Remarkably, Sunday dawned, with the rising sun bringing hope. But, awakening to the realities of the day was a stark and sad indicator, cogently formidable in its intellectual paradigm.
How could one juxtapose the EVENT with the subjugated soul? It was a severely undermining theory, concocting thoughts all the while eclipsed in the weekend stupor, as we attempt the final assault, on what we believe is the pinnacle.
Astoundingly, Sunday passed in a idyllic reverie. What rational maxims can one use to explain these fleetingly pleasant moments ? Or should they be relegated to the bin of all those which are manifestly untrue, a purposeless and amorphous entity ? The weekend, with its pretentious sheen will see its inevitable demise. And soon. It was Sunday night.
It is my contention that there are glaring inconsistencies inherent in such an untenable position. They are to our detriment, brought about through gratuitous irrationality. Why should we thoughtlessly succumb to the mind-numbing influence of these sort of things ? Who, after all, wants to exult in greatness if perceived fallacious ?
Monday morning, thankfully.
As the day wore on, zealously intrinsic fallacies wrought havoc. My inborn sensibility was searching frantically for strenuously convincing reasons and a cogent philosophical explanation. But the fallacy was alarmingly simplistic. The EVENT weighed on my mind, already riddled with doctrines from all angles of human synonymy (if there is such a word).
Saturday night. Ha ha. But more of the same. More sectarian bending over backwards, unapologetically celebrating our headlong rush to devolve the transcendent singular uniqueness thrust upon us. The strong impetus to discern common features was a form of chauvinism in itself. It was cherished, despite its damaging inadequacies. Remarkably, Sunday dawned, with the rising sun bringing hope. But, awakening to the realities of the day was a stark and sad indicator, cogently formidable in its intellectual paradigm.
How could one juxtapose the EVENT with the subjugated soul? It was a severely undermining theory, concocting thoughts all the while eclipsed in the weekend stupor, as we attempt the final assault, on what we believe is the pinnacle.
Astoundingly, Sunday passed in a idyllic reverie. What rational maxims can one use to explain these fleetingly pleasant moments ? Or should they be relegated to the bin of all those which are manifestly untrue, a purposeless and amorphous entity ? The weekend, with its pretentious sheen will see its inevitable demise. And soon. It was Sunday night.
It is my contention that there are glaring inconsistencies inherent in such an untenable position. They are to our detriment, brought about through gratuitous irrationality. Why should we thoughtlessly succumb to the mind-numbing influence of these sort of things ? Who, after all, wants to exult in greatness if perceived fallacious ?
Monday morning, thankfully.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Sycophants
Why does it have to happen to me ? But then thinking of it, why not ? The probabilities are not biased. When God created us, He didn’t play favourites. And although there is talk of karma, the leash is long enough and elastic enough for each of us. Its in our heads anyway. Each of us decides.
The reason for all this is often obvious in the absence of reason. After all, what is the purpose of existence ? A self-serving evolution right ? The fittest survive to sharpen themselves through their respective karmic repayments. And when we say God is a witness, its just that everything happens by the rules He has set. So we believe. And He himself exists by those rules. When you think about it, its really nothing out of nothing. As it says in the Vedas, Aditi begat Aditi. And Aditi Herself was never begotten, and neither did she beget. But Aditi begat Aditi.
But what does the title have to do with all these ? Well, nothing ;-)
The reason for all this is often obvious in the absence of reason. After all, what is the purpose of existence ? A self-serving evolution right ? The fittest survive to sharpen themselves through their respective karmic repayments. And when we say God is a witness, its just that everything happens by the rules He has set. So we believe. And He himself exists by those rules. When you think about it, its really nothing out of nothing. As it says in the Vedas, Aditi begat Aditi. And Aditi Herself was never begotten, and neither did she beget. But Aditi begat Aditi.
But what does the title have to do with all these ? Well, nothing ;-)
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Music Therapy
In Carnatic music, more than in any other, localized inflexions with average pitch lead to the perception of microtones. Some inflexions can function as pure ornamentations, espedially those in vogue today. Many people think of them as distinct sthanams and localized inflexions or “gamakams”. Musicologists often argue that pitch inflexions are inextricably coupled with similar multi-dimensional phenomena.
If one picks up a typical book on Carnatic music theory and starts reading, more often than not, he or she will encounter melodic graces, that do not have any direct connection with these microtones. Upon hearing actual music, ubiquitously and systematically, it would be quite strange without them to a seasoned listener. Technically inclined listeners might find that different musicians use different “sruthis” and assign different ratios/rationals/relative frequencies. Indeed, based on consonance relationships, string harmonics and string lengths, various people have derived a lot of numbers that have some underlying meanings or significance, which may escape the casual listener. The perception of microtonal intervals sometimes enables one to reconcile these issues.
Virtually, inflexions are a synonym for an audible sound preceding a “tryamb”. Connotations on this in ancient treatises are distinctly cognizable and served as a qualitative unit simultaneously. The acoustic cue is subjective and the idea of a distinctly conservative mathematical idealization with synthetic tones is relevant to renditions, and perceivable by most people. Without any hesitation we would lump harmonies and consonance under tonic and key modulations.
In explicitly endorsed representations, this should be used to characterize and categorize them and in chromatic consonance.
Contemporary Carnatic music can be traced to generally contain fewer melakartas and most have flaws in organization. While Thyagaraja used a later scheme devised by Govindacharya, he did not believe that melakartas must be of simple sampoorna arohanam but favored the idea of calling a raga as a melakarta. This leads to a system which is more elegant from a mathematical viewpoint. In this scheme, the arohanams arise out of systematic permutation of the seven swaras. It is a product of mathematical abstraction and it is of no consequence as far as the organization of the melakartas is concerned.
If one picks up a typical book on Carnatic music theory and starts reading, more often than not, he or she will encounter melodic graces, that do not have any direct connection with these microtones. Upon hearing actual music, ubiquitously and systematically, it would be quite strange without them to a seasoned listener. Technically inclined listeners might find that different musicians use different “sruthis” and assign different ratios/rationals/relative frequencies. Indeed, based on consonance relationships, string harmonics and string lengths, various people have derived a lot of numbers that have some underlying meanings or significance, which may escape the casual listener. The perception of microtonal intervals sometimes enables one to reconcile these issues.
Virtually, inflexions are a synonym for an audible sound preceding a “tryamb”. Connotations on this in ancient treatises are distinctly cognizable and served as a qualitative unit simultaneously. The acoustic cue is subjective and the idea of a distinctly conservative mathematical idealization with synthetic tones is relevant to renditions, and perceivable by most people. Without any hesitation we would lump harmonies and consonance under tonic and key modulations.
In explicitly endorsed representations, this should be used to characterize and categorize them and in chromatic consonance.
Contemporary Carnatic music can be traced to generally contain fewer melakartas and most have flaws in organization. While Thyagaraja used a later scheme devised by Govindacharya, he did not believe that melakartas must be of simple sampoorna arohanam but favored the idea of calling a raga as a melakarta. This leads to a system which is more elegant from a mathematical viewpoint. In this scheme, the arohanams arise out of systematic permutation of the seven swaras. It is a product of mathematical abstraction and it is of no consequence as far as the organization of the melakartas is concerned.
Saturday, March 8, 2008
Full Moon
The moon was full. They say the full moon exterts a magnetic pull of the waters in our body (and brain) bringing on a little lunacy in all of us during such periods. Actually the moon is always there : full and round. Its just that at times we cant see the fulness due to the shadow cast on it. Then why do they say the full moon has a greater effect on our mind? Surely a misconception ?
Anyway, the moon was full. Ravenous capricity was the order of the day. Surely this would have flown in the face of the accepted theories of human endeavour ? Where else can you expect fairness and justice ? It was really a conundrum. In general, utopian gregariousness is preferred as a consciencious choice. Permissiveness will not get us anywhere. A building has integrity just like a man. And just as seldom. And a creative man is motivated by the desire to achieve, not by the desire to beat others. Desire presupposes the possibility of action to achieve it; action presupposes a goal which is worth achieving. So said Ayn Rand.
I guess the full-moon theory does have its merits.
Anyway, the moon was full. Ravenous capricity was the order of the day. Surely this would have flown in the face of the accepted theories of human endeavour ? Where else can you expect fairness and justice ? It was really a conundrum. In general, utopian gregariousness is preferred as a consciencious choice. Permissiveness will not get us anywhere. A building has integrity just like a man. And just as seldom. And a creative man is motivated by the desire to achieve, not by the desire to beat others. Desire presupposes the possibility of action to achieve it; action presupposes a goal which is worth achieving. So said Ayn Rand.
I guess the full-moon theory does have its merits.
The fall out
The results are in. As expected, BN has been given a good thrashing. Samyvelu is out, as are many of his MIC henchmen. And the so-called multiracial Gerakan party, which fielded an all-Chinese team, was completely wiped out in Penang, the State where it was formed, and which it led since 1969. The BN's 2/3 , which it was using for flimsy reasons such as amending the constitution to allow the Election Commision chief to retire later, was taken away. An unprecedented number of over 80 opposition parliamentarians will grill the incoming BN Government, and keep it on its toes. As expected, Kelantan fell to PAS, with a much enhanced majority - a clear message by the Kelantanese (maybe even those who went by the BN chartered buses voted PAS). And Penang fell to the DAP/PKR/PAS loose alliance. This, many expected would happen. But there was more: BN lost the State Governments in Kedah, Perak and Selangor as well. This was unbelievable at first, but turned out to be true.
Makkal Sakti had triumphed !
Personally I had been hoping that BN's brute majority would be reduced, in Parliament and in all States, but I really wanted BN to be the ruling party everywhere. With sufficient opposition members to question things and keep them in check. I thought that would be best for everyone. But obviously the "makkal" had other ideas.
Now it appears that DAP/PKR will collaborate and form the State Governments in Penang (DAP leading), Perak & Selangor (PKR leading). PAS / PKR wil form the Kedah State Government while of course PAS will take Kelantan.
What I hope for now is that the PKR/DAP/PAS people get theri act together, remember what they were fighting against, and avoid any petty squabbles. These are likely to surface through BN efforts as well as naturally : power tends to corrupt. Do a great job, and show the people that they made the right choice. Dont get into a vindictive situation. Make this the beginnings of a great political grouping, cutting across race, for all Malaysians. Show that you dont have to be Malay to fight against injustice towards Malays, or Chinese to voice out Chinese issues or Indian to scream for Indian rights. You just have to be a Malaysian with a heart, who will fight for rights of all, solve everyone's issues and against all injustice.
Go do it.
Makkal Sakti had triumphed !
Personally I had been hoping that BN's brute majority would be reduced, in Parliament and in all States, but I really wanted BN to be the ruling party everywhere. With sufficient opposition members to question things and keep them in check. I thought that would be best for everyone. But obviously the "makkal" had other ideas.
Now it appears that DAP/PKR will collaborate and form the State Governments in Penang (DAP leading), Perak & Selangor (PKR leading). PAS / PKR wil form the Kedah State Government while of course PAS will take Kelantan.
What I hope for now is that the PKR/DAP/PAS people get theri act together, remember what they were fighting against, and avoid any petty squabbles. These are likely to surface through BN efforts as well as naturally : power tends to corrupt. Do a great job, and show the people that they made the right choice. Dont get into a vindictive situation. Make this the beginnings of a great political grouping, cutting across race, for all Malaysians. Show that you dont have to be Malay to fight against injustice towards Malays, or Chinese to voice out Chinese issues or Indian to scream for Indian rights. You just have to be a Malaysian with a heart, who will fight for rights of all, solve everyone's issues and against all injustice.
Go do it.
Friday, March 7, 2008
Limits
What is the beginning of time, or end for that matter. Or is such a concept is beyond human comprehension? But maybe Time is not a straight line after all. It could be a loop. Or even a fuzzy shape ? Without a beginning or end ? This is not so amazing, as the clock does go in a circle, so why cant time do so as well ? Of course there is a difference between Time and the way we measure Time. We see things in terms of past present and future. So what happened in the “pastest” time ? ie, in the beginning ? And what happened before that ? If we define the beginning as the point of time at which everything began, then by definition, nothing happened before that. And that is unimaginable. And could there be an end to Time? And after that nothing would happen ? Or is it that if we are not there, it doesn’t matter ?
And what about space ? If we keep moving in a straight direction out to space, of course going around planets and other obstructions that may get in our way, where would we reach in the end ? Again the concept of end. If we have all the time in the world, chances are we would keep going. But what IS out there ? Out thoughts can move fast enough. But our mind cannot comprehend what it could be like out there. Maybe it’s a fuzzy loop too ? Difficult to believe ? After all, not so long ago people could not believe the world was round. Their depth of knowledge and experience at that time made the concept of a round world an absurd concept. What if by traveling long enough, far enough, we would actually reach back here, where we started. Of course the place would be unrecognizable by then, so it would be just another “new” place, and we may not know we have arrived. After all, what defines this point of space ? Only a relative positioning is possible. But if everything is changing, in the large units of time and space we are talking about, then even the concept of “here” and “now” are meaningless anyway.
What if it is really true that all this is just Maya…. And just exists in our conscience ? In fact all you people don’t really exist. Its just me, imagining that I am writing this blog and that all of you are reading it. And that would at least explain why I am unabashedly confessing my ignorance to the world. Its all just a figment of my imagination.
And the final question : why ? What is the point of all this anyway ?
And in all this, where is God ? The Brahman…. said to be the unchanging, infinite, immanent, and transcendent reality which is the Divine Ground of all matter, energy, time, space, being, and everything beyond in this Universe. Is this all His dream then ? Is he able to dream for all of us, in such a way that the interplay of our dreams and “existence” and everything is really His dream ? And what about Him ? Our limits tend to think of Him as a being, in fact, we even have to consider Him a male, using the term “Him”. In fact Brahman is just the Dream. Like it is said . He is the dreamer, the dream, and everything in the dream.
And what about space ? If we keep moving in a straight direction out to space, of course going around planets and other obstructions that may get in our way, where would we reach in the end ? Again the concept of end. If we have all the time in the world, chances are we would keep going. But what IS out there ? Out thoughts can move fast enough. But our mind cannot comprehend what it could be like out there. Maybe it’s a fuzzy loop too ? Difficult to believe ? After all, not so long ago people could not believe the world was round. Their depth of knowledge and experience at that time made the concept of a round world an absurd concept. What if by traveling long enough, far enough, we would actually reach back here, where we started. Of course the place would be unrecognizable by then, so it would be just another “new” place, and we may not know we have arrived. After all, what defines this point of space ? Only a relative positioning is possible. But if everything is changing, in the large units of time and space we are talking about, then even the concept of “here” and “now” are meaningless anyway.
What if it is really true that all this is just Maya…. And just exists in our conscience ? In fact all you people don’t really exist. Its just me, imagining that I am writing this blog and that all of you are reading it. And that would at least explain why I am unabashedly confessing my ignorance to the world. Its all just a figment of my imagination.
And the final question : why ? What is the point of all this anyway ?
And in all this, where is God ? The Brahman…. said to be the unchanging, infinite, immanent, and transcendent reality which is the Divine Ground of all matter, energy, time, space, being, and everything beyond in this Universe. Is this all His dream then ? Is he able to dream for all of us, in such a way that the interplay of our dreams and “existence” and everything is really His dream ? And what about Him ? Our limits tend to think of Him as a being, in fact, we even have to consider Him a male, using the term “Him”. In fact Brahman is just the Dream. Like it is said . He is the dreamer, the dream, and everything in the dream.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Consternation & jurisprudence
One wonders what would be the end of it all. It does seem appropriate to question the antics of those who seem hell bent of wreaking the effects of political expediency on human survival... Especially those which wither away after a heavy down pour of political fallout. What can we make of such creatures ? These origins can be found from the oldest of scriptures. Maybe it started off as a meditation tool for attaining self realization. But we are painfully cognizant of the fact that all different forms of these unsavory events are believed to affect various chakras. However, there is little mention of these esoteric beliefs among aficionados who discuss these nether matters while sipping their cup of wine, and intoxicant and mendicant to soothe their own brains. The first treatise laying down these fundamental principles are still in existence, though available mainly to an elite audience.
This philosophy of assumptions, foundations, and implications is defined by an interest in one of a set of "traditional" problems or an interest in central or foundational concerns. We can certainly justify using contemporary results in science to draw philosophical morals. While most practitioners are philosophers, several prominent scientists have (and do) contribute to this most rewarding field of human endeavour.
The central driving force of capitalism, according to Marx, was also in consonance with what was expounded by Engels. In the exploitation and alienation of music, and the human plebeians, the ultimate source of the new profits and value-added was that the market forces put paid to all claims of fair play, and the jurisdictional conflicts that was not anticipated by our founding fathers. This is worrying indeed. What if the value of the product exceeded that market value. Would that entitle one to appropriate the new regions, as if they were his own ?
However, we are very concerned with the social aspects of this repudiation of values. How and under what circumstances can the anesthetic impact of such economic mollycoddling be justified, especially looking from the moral high ground ? It is an object useful to somebody else, but with a trading value for the owner. Sanctimonious deferral will get us nowhere. Political economy, which was originally thought of as a "moral science" concerned with the just distribution of wealth, or as a "political arithmetic" for tax collection, gave way to the separate disciplines of economic science, law and ethics, as well as geography. Even History could be rewritten.
Alas, we long for the justice that only time can bring.
This philosophy of assumptions, foundations, and implications is defined by an interest in one of a set of "traditional" problems or an interest in central or foundational concerns. We can certainly justify using contemporary results in science to draw philosophical morals. While most practitioners are philosophers, several prominent scientists have (and do) contribute to this most rewarding field of human endeavour.
The central driving force of capitalism, according to Marx, was also in consonance with what was expounded by Engels. In the exploitation and alienation of music, and the human plebeians, the ultimate source of the new profits and value-added was that the market forces put paid to all claims of fair play, and the jurisdictional conflicts that was not anticipated by our founding fathers. This is worrying indeed. What if the value of the product exceeded that market value. Would that entitle one to appropriate the new regions, as if they were his own ?
However, we are very concerned with the social aspects of this repudiation of values. How and under what circumstances can the anesthetic impact of such economic mollycoddling be justified, especially looking from the moral high ground ? It is an object useful to somebody else, but with a trading value for the owner. Sanctimonious deferral will get us nowhere. Political economy, which was originally thought of as a "moral science" concerned with the just distribution of wealth, or as a "political arithmetic" for tax collection, gave way to the separate disciplines of economic science, law and ethics, as well as geography. Even History could be rewritten.
Alas, we long for the justice that only time can bring.
WHY
The mob blocked the path of the van. Rev Valos looked at his wife, Wheila. Wheila was cradling their little daughter, who was fast asleep, oblivious to the scene outside. Wheila was scared. So was Rev Valos. He looked at the mob. They looked angry, and were gesticulating and speaking loudly in local lingo.Valos put his hand on the door handle. He was about to go out of the van. He wanted to talk to the people outside. Wheila stopped him. “No. Don’t leave. Its safer here.”Some of the more boisterous of the group was now pushing against the van. The van was buffeted and rocked.Wheila was terrified. Valos was praying. The little girl was asleep.Paavaaan, the God of the Philistians heard Valos’s prayer. He knew what was happening. Even before He heard their prayer. Even before it happened. The van with his followers surrounded by the angry group. Flashback 3 months. Rev Valos had arrived in Maniba with his family. His mission was to bring God to the pagan Manibans. A noble mission. Paavaaan blessed Rev Valos then. Or so Valos thought. “Go forth and Just do it,” He commanded Valos in a prayer session. Or so Valos thought. And Valos did just that. He successfully converted hundreds of Manibans to Philistianity. Paavaaan was pleased. Or so Valos thought.But the Manibans were not pagans. At least they themselves did not think so. They were followers of Haubaah and a thousand other Gods, too numerous to enumerate. Most Manibans knew only a handful of their Gods. But they were convinced that their religion was the greatest, but to the simpletons among them, Philistianity was more attractive, especially since the Philistian preacher Valos and his wife and family looked so attractive and fashionable. These simple folks wanted to associate with the “classy” Philistians. Who knows, maybe they may even embrace the converts and take them back to their country, a place of plenty, where the streets are paved with gold, and money grows on trees, and the people are so beautiful and loving.The Manibans prayed to Haubaah and all their other thousand Gods. “Please help us fight these barbarians, who are insulting our religion and our Gods, and converting our people”. Haubaah heard their prayer. He knew what was happening. Even before He heard their prayer. Even before it happened. He did not say yes. Neither did He say no. In short, He did not answer. He was not happy. Neither was He sad. In short He was.The mob had brought out iron rods, which they used to beat the van. Soon the windows gave way. Valos prayed, hugging his wife and child. Wheila screamed hysterically. The child had woken up but was shocked into silent sobs.A molotov cocktail landed inside the van. The cheap plastic upholstery caught fire and blazed in a ball of fire. Soon the van was engulfed. The mob watched. Their cries and screams were silenced as they heard the terrible wailing of the family being burnt to death. They watched in silence. As the fire died down, a deathly silence engulfed the area. Slowly they walked away.As they walked away, some among them were filled with a sickening loathing. What had they done ? Would Haubaah be pleased ? Not at all. How can a God be pleased when His followers perpetuate barbaric acts ? The spark of Haubaah struggled to come forth from deep inside them. Others felt they had taught a good lesson to the Philistian barbarians. Maybe from now onwards they would stop insulting the Manibans and their Gods. Haubaah would be pleased. In a small town in far away Nacada, Valos’s parents sat in silence with Wheila’s mother. They were overwhelmed with grief. Why ? Why ? Why ? Why had Paavaaan deserted his servants in their hour of need ?Haubaah was in deep contemplation. He heard. He knew. But He did not answer. For He was Haubaah. He was Paavaaan. In short, He was.
Political Thoughts
All the recent election hype got me thinking : What is the ideal political model ? Is there one anyway ? Well one sure winner is probably one with me (yes, ME) in charge of everything ! Then things would certainly be the way i want them to be. But then how about the other folks ? How can we have a system where everyone is in charge ? Near impossible. Worse still, humans tend to get corrupted with power. And selfishness, greed and jealousy are part of human nature, so we cant help it.Democrazy (yea yea, i know)... is touted as the best system around. But too much freedom can be restrictive, odd as it sounds. The crazies (now u know why i called it democrazy) start coming out of the woodwork.Democracy is supposed to be Government of the people for the people and by the people. But the "people" in this context are just the folks who come around to the rest of us every 5 years or so, to make all kinds of promises so that they can go back to being the government.So what can we do ? The answer is probably in the much flaunted concept of checks and balances. The several branches of the democratic system need other branches to be checking on them. So, for instance, the chief of one branch cannot be appointing the chief of another, and saying its his sole prerogative. Its not difficult to put this kind of arrangement in place. The King, the executive (Cabinet), the legislators, the judiciary and best of all, the press. The last has been enjoying the advantages that have come as a windfall with the wonderful freedom of cyberspace.And we need a watchdog : a powerful constutionally empowered group of stalwarts who watch over everything. With this watchdog empowered to impeach the elected people, they wd have to stay on their toes. No more 5 year free rides.And talking about democracy and power, the bottom line is often that power really flows out of the gun barrels. In so many countries the bearers of arms are the ultimate kings (or at least king makers). Just look at Pakistan, Thailand and until recently Philipines and so many more . Now how do we take care of these guys ?Well , too much serious thinking stimulates my tummy, and i hear the growls. Chow time. Ciao. (sorry couldnt help that one).
Sunday, March 2, 2008
The Day After
The PM looked exhausted. It had been a grueling campaign, and last night as the results came in, the news had not been good all the time. Expectations and disappointments.
His advisors had been with him since early that morning. How should he look. How should he project himself. What should he say. What questions should he expect and how should he answer them. He was sleepy and just wanted to hit the bed.
He stood and faced the reporters and all who had assembled in the room, and smiled weakly.
“ Asalumualaikum, and a very good morning. I am your PM again this morning (scattered laughter). Yes, last night the results of the election came in, and Narisan Basional has been given a strong mandate to govern this country yet again. We thank the people for the confidence in us, and we promise we will not disappoint you.”
Those present looked at each other. They did not look convinced.
“But it is also a fact that we have not done as well as we hoped. We no longer have the 2/3 majority in Parliament, which we have had all along. Also all the MDC candidates lost. We are deeply disappointed. The Dinnian community now has no representation in the Government now. Even their leader, Masylevu who was the sole minister in our Government lost. But all these will not weaken our resolve to be the Government for the people, of the people, and by the people”, he stopped, swallowing on realizing how hollow this sounded.
“The people have spoken. It is their decision. But we will not forsake the entire Dinnian community just because some of them let us down. We will appoint someone to take care of them. We will make sure they get what they deserve”.
One of the Dinnian reporters present looked up. Was it his imagination, that this sounded rather ominous?
Those present applauded half heartedly. The reporters were ready to ask their questions. But the PM’s eyes were half closed. “No questions”, announced the official. And that was it.
At his palatial mansion, Masylevu sat around in sullen silence with his oversized companions. Several bottles were on the table in front of them. In their alcoholic stupor, each was plotting his own revenge on those who had brought their idyllic existence crashing down.
On the vast lawn of the ex-MP, the group of Mubis sat, sipping their sickeningly sweet syrup. How could this happen ? This was their country, and these lowly Dinnian coolies, who had come here to escape their wretched country, who deserved nothing but the lowest contempt, had thrown this glorious reign into disarray. They fumed within themselves, inconsolable at their loss.
Government office canteen. The Government staff , all coincidentally Mubis as usual, looked thoughtful. What did the PM mean when he said he will make sure the Dinnians will get what they deserve? Did he really intend to reward the Dinnians for what they had done ? In their minds they knew exactly what the Dinnians deserved. And the Government machinery will ensure this.
The group of Dinnian friends were at the Temple. They were all smiles. At last, they had made a statement. Everyone recognised them. Life looked rosy. They looked up at their dilapidated Temple. And the pathetic School next to it. Soon these could look very different. Soon, their lives would be transformed. Their future was assured. We are Lamaysians, they thought proudly.
His advisors had been with him since early that morning. How should he look. How should he project himself. What should he say. What questions should he expect and how should he answer them. He was sleepy and just wanted to hit the bed.
He stood and faced the reporters and all who had assembled in the room, and smiled weakly.
“ Asalumualaikum, and a very good morning. I am your PM again this morning (scattered laughter). Yes, last night the results of the election came in, and Narisan Basional has been given a strong mandate to govern this country yet again. We thank the people for the confidence in us, and we promise we will not disappoint you.”
Those present looked at each other. They did not look convinced.
“But it is also a fact that we have not done as well as we hoped. We no longer have the 2/3 majority in Parliament, which we have had all along. Also all the MDC candidates lost. We are deeply disappointed. The Dinnian community now has no representation in the Government now. Even their leader, Masylevu who was the sole minister in our Government lost. But all these will not weaken our resolve to be the Government for the people, of the people, and by the people”, he stopped, swallowing on realizing how hollow this sounded.
“The people have spoken. It is their decision. But we will not forsake the entire Dinnian community just because some of them let us down. We will appoint someone to take care of them. We will make sure they get what they deserve”.
One of the Dinnian reporters present looked up. Was it his imagination, that this sounded rather ominous?
Those present applauded half heartedly. The reporters were ready to ask their questions. But the PM’s eyes were half closed. “No questions”, announced the official. And that was it.
At his palatial mansion, Masylevu sat around in sullen silence with his oversized companions. Several bottles were on the table in front of them. In their alcoholic stupor, each was plotting his own revenge on those who had brought their idyllic existence crashing down.
On the vast lawn of the ex-MP, the group of Mubis sat, sipping their sickeningly sweet syrup. How could this happen ? This was their country, and these lowly Dinnian coolies, who had come here to escape their wretched country, who deserved nothing but the lowest contempt, had thrown this glorious reign into disarray. They fumed within themselves, inconsolable at their loss.
Government office canteen. The Government staff , all coincidentally Mubis as usual, looked thoughtful. What did the PM mean when he said he will make sure the Dinnians will get what they deserve? Did he really intend to reward the Dinnians for what they had done ? In their minds they knew exactly what the Dinnians deserved. And the Government machinery will ensure this.
The group of Dinnian friends were at the Temple. They were all smiles. At last, they had made a statement. Everyone recognised them. Life looked rosy. They looked up at their dilapidated Temple. And the pathetic School next to it. Soon these could look very different. Soon, their lives would be transformed. Their future was assured. We are Lamaysians, they thought proudly.
Saturday, March 1, 2008
Lend me your years...
Friends, Malaysian countrymen, lend me your years................. or at least minutes.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)
