Exploring Life's Philosophies Through Existentialism, Anekantavada, and Physical Strength

Defining a philosophy of life is a complex task, one that has intrigued humanity for centuries. My personal philosophy aligns closely with the ideas posited by Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, and has been influenced by the works of countless other philosophers over the past two millennia. However, I believe that while these great thinkers laid the foundational stones, it is each individual's responsibility to craft their own path. Attempting to define such a philosophy can be as daunting a task as overcoming a bitter cup of hemlock, as it led Socrates to his death. Let us leave philosophy to the philosophers and step forward to explore three key tenets that guide my own way of life: Existentialism, Anekantavada, and Physical Strength'.

Existentialism: Crafting Our Essence Through Choices

The concept of Existentialism posits that life is inherently devoid of a predefined purpose or meaning. We are tasked with creating our own essence, essence that is informed by the choices we make and the actions we undertake. This philosophy recognizes that each individual is not bound by predetermined destiny or the whims of fate. Sartre, Camus, and others have explored this idea in-depth, challenging us to embrace freedom and responsibility. Existentialism encourages us to accept the challenges of navigating life's uncertainties and to forge our own paths, both individually and collectively.

Anekantavada: Embracing Many-sidedness

Anekantavada, often translated as "many-sidedness", is a principle in Jain philosophy that emphasizes the complexity and multifaceted nature of reality. This concept asserts that a single truth can have multiple perspectives or interpretations, and that no single viewpoint can capture the entirety of a situation. By embracing the principle of anekantavada, we learn to be open-minded, to listen to a diverse range of opinions, and to understand that different viewpoints can coexist harmoniously. This philosophy fosters a culture of dialogue and respect for differing beliefs, promoting a more inclusive and tolerant society.

Physical Strength: A Balance with Spirituality

Physical strength and spiritual exploration are not mutually exclusive but rather complement each other in achieving a balanced life. This idea was famously articulated by Swami Vivekananda in his assertion that, 'you will be nearer to Heaven through football than through the study of the Gita.' Swami Vivekananda's views are a refreshing reminder that mental and physical well-being are interconnected. In emphasizing both physical strength and spirituality, he encourages us to appreciate the holistic nature of a fulfilling life. Physical strength provides us with resilience and the ability to overcome physical challenges, while spiritual exploration offers us inner peace and insight into the greater mysteries of existence.

Contextualizing the Third Tenet of Vivekananda's Philosophy

There may have been a misconception regarding the third tenet, which some interpret as a criticism of the Gita. However, it is essential to clarify that Swami Vivekananda never criticized the Gita. The real essence of his quotation lies in the holistic approach to life. He believed in the value of physical and mental well-being equally, and highlighted the importance of engaging in everyday activities, such as sports, as a means of achieving spiritual growth. His perspective encourages us to find joy and fulfillment in the mundane, rather than restricting our spiritual journey to abstract philosophical texts alone. Indeed, both physical and mental well-being contribute to a more complete and fulfilling life.

Reflecting on these three tenets, we can see that they offer a rich tapestry of philosophical principles to guide our lives. Existentialism encourages us to embrace the complexity and freedom of decision-making, Anekantavada teaches us the value of seeing multiple perspectives, and the balance of physical and spiritual strength emphasizes the interconnectedness of our physical and mental well-being. As we navigate the challenges of life, these philosophies can serve as a compass, guiding us toward a more meaningful and fulfilling existence.

Casuallly, on a bitter morning like this, such thoughts can provide a warm comfort. And perhaps, the bitterness of the coffee is just a reminder of the challenges we face, much like the hemlock that Socrates drank.

C'est la vie.