Chapter 1: The Subject-Object Dynamic

In a recent discussion with Acharya Prashant, a thought-provoking dialogue unfolded regarding the relationship between superstition, science, and faith.

Questioner: In scientific experiments, we often find a subject and an object. The subject's perspective is influenced by their conditioning, which leads to conflicting scientific studies. This raises the question: is there anything truly objective, universal, and reliable?

Acharya Prashant: Understanding the subject-object relationship is crucial. Typically, the subject operates from a limited state of consciousness often characterized by belief or superstition. In this state, the subject perceives an object and assumes its existence based solely on their perception. They claim, "I see it, therefore it exists," treating their perception as absolute truth.

This mindset doesn't stop there. The subject often asserts that their feelings or imaginations about the object are equally valid and beyond scrutiny. This reflects a fundamental misunderstanding of consciousness. The subject might gaze at water and declare, "Water exists," simply because they can perceive it through their senses.

However, they might also invent fanciful narratives about the water's origin, such as claiming it emerges from fire or has magical properties. These imaginative stories are mistakenly accepted as absolute truths, leading to an uncritical acceptance of beliefs.

For instance, one might claim that certain water sources possess sacred qualities or that water touched by a holy person has healing powers. Such assertions indicate a low level of consciousness—one that is often prevalent in society.

Higher than this superstitious mindset is the scientific state of consciousness. While there are similarities between science and superstition, particularly in the initial acceptance of the object's existence, science distinguishes itself through a commitment to experimentation and verification.

In science, once the existence of an object like water is established, the focus shifts to testing its properties rather than accepting additional claims without evidence. The scientific approach emphasizes verifiability and the need for claims to withstand scrutiny.

Superstition, Science, Faith: Subject-Object Duality - Acharya Prashant discusses the nuances of belief and perception in the realm of science and spirituality.

In contrast, faith transcends both superstition and science. While both approaches place the subject at the center, faith challenges the notion of a reliable subject. The faithful mind recognizes the need to question the very existence of the subject itself, acknowledging its limitations and conditioning.

This exploration leads to the realization that faith does not rest on the subject or object. Instead, it seeks something beyond both—a truth that is unconditioned and absolute. Faith dismisses the narratives and biases of both science and superstition, focusing instead on the nature of existence itself.

Chapter 2: The Nature of Truth and Trustworthiness

Faith, therefore, emerges as a state of consciousness that recognizes the relativity of existence. It does not cling to unrealistic hopes or beliefs in the reliability of the material world.

The inquiry into objective truth reveals a paradox: if we claim something is objective, we must acknowledge that its existence relies on the subjective experience of individuals. Thus, true objectivity may be an illusion.

Moreover, when considering universal truths, one must remember that all perceptions arise from individual viewpoints. Consequently, what is deemed universal is inherently personal.

Similarly, the quest for something trustworthy leads to introspection about the trustworthiness of the one placing trust. If we ourselves are unreliable, how can we expect our assessments of trustworthiness to be valid?

Instead of seeking absolute truths or universal constants, one should embrace the transient nature of existence. Real faith allows for an acceptance of uncertainty and the untrustworthiness of everything, including oneself.

This understanding fosters a sense of peace. When one can acknowledge the anchorlessness of all things yet still find joy, that is faith.

Nondual Perspective on Duality - Acharya Prashant offers insights into how faith transcends dualistic notions of existence, leading to a deeper understanding of reality.

In conclusion, true faith is not about clinging to beliefs but about recognizing the limitations of both subject and object. When one can smile in the face of uncertainty, they have discovered genuine faith.

For more insights into Acharya Prashant and his teachings, feel free to reach out to the Foundation directly.