Geethartha Chinthane 150: Meditation only after clarity

Meditation should only begin after achieving clarity (Tanthi Nishchaya). Without this clarity, what is the point of meditating? Hence, one must first attain this clarity through thorough introspection and then proceed to meditate. This is why we study Vedanta first—it facilitates discussions and debates to differentiate between right and wrong, leading to a firm conclusion. Any lingering confusion should be resolved before meditating.

One must establish confidence in their understanding. Initially, self-verification helps build trust in a concept, which can later be validated through external tests. First comes self-assurance, and then comes confirmation through evidence. Without a belief system, validation is impossible, and actions cannot proceed.

If someone doubts the authenticity of the scriptures that guide people toward dharma, how should one respond? A scripture’s validity is not guaranteed solely by its author’s claims of being error-free. It must be supported with logical reasoning. The concepts of virtue and sin are not derived from the words of Vedavyasa but are rooted in the Vedas themselves. Vedavyasa merely conveyed what is stated in the original Vedas, making the Vedas the ultimate source, not Vedavyasa.

~ Sri Sugunendra Theertha Swamiji of Paryaya Sri Puthige Sri Krishna Matha

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