Geethartha Chinthane 143: Separation of Body and Soul: Authority of the Scriptures

Team Udayavani, Jan 2, 2025, 9:26 AM IST

Just as childhood, youth, and old age occur within the same body while the soul remains unchanged, the soul continues to exist independently even when the body transitions in death. Hence, Krishna establishes the distinction between the body and the soul. Supporting this argument, the scriptures state, “Shareerat Urdhvam Amushin Swarge Loke…” (From the body, the soul ascends to higher realms).

A common question arises: “Why should we accept that the soul and body are separate just because the scriptures say so, when we see the body burn in front of us?” Krishna counters by emphasizing the validity of scriptural authority. If one dismisses the scriptures as evidence, how can one accept direct perception (pratyaksha) as evidence, knowing that even perception can sometimes be misleading? Despite occasional errors, perception is still accepted as a valid form of evidence. Similarly, scriptures must be acknowledged as a source of truth, even if some doubts or exceptions arise.

For example, scriptures say performing the Putrakameshti Yajna grants progeny. In rare cases, this might not happen, but such exceptions do not invalidate the authority of the scriptures. Rejecting the entire body of knowledge based on isolated inconsistencies is irrational. The same logic applies to perception: if one instance of perception is false, does it mean all perceptions should be rejected? This rhetorical question highlights the necessity of accepting scriptural authority alongside other forms of evidence.

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

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