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Philosophy of Vis'istAdvaita

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Venkat Nagarajan • August 5, 1999 


Dear Bhagavatas,
NamO nArAyaNA.

Many fail to recognize that the Philosophy of Vis'istAdvaita is holistic,
structured and rational.  Most fail to recognize this feature for the
following two reasons:
1. they are unable to differentiate between philosophy and religion
2. they undertake a study of the material in a perfunctory manner.   

The philosophy of Vis'istAdvaita is NOT SOME FLUID STORY that 
can be interpreted in many different ways.  However, by reading 
some of the speculative postings, one may reach this most improper
conclusion.  The philosophy of VIs'istadvaita uses rational premises,
axioms, and definitions to put forth a valid argument.  It is theoretically
possible for there to be many mutually exclusive valid arguments that
seek to explain the nature of reality, but only one can be true.  
The result being, acceptance of one will ultimately be based 
on belief.

When dealing with the physical world one can talk in terms of a provable
argument, i.e.,  an argument that relies solely on axioms and definitions.  
However, when we talk about nature of reality, we cannot do without
using rational premises  (because the subject matter is beyond the realm
of perception. )

Philosophic issues have concrete and rational answers. 
When one is trying to obtain an asnwer to a philosophical query, 
related to a particular philosophy x, one has to work within the
framework of that philosophy (i.e, one has to accpet the rational
premises and definitions of that philosophy.)   Discussing these issues 
in a cursory manner;i.e., not staying within the framework of the
philosophy will lead to misleading conclusions.  

adiyEn ramanuja dasan,
Venkat
krishNArpaNam