The Light of Wisdom

Preface

What is knowledge? What is wisdom? Can these words be used synonymously? At best, some of us tend to think of knowledge as a gathering of information, and wisdom the ability to bring it into practice. We may respect a great scholar, but we have an even greater admiration for those who can act dynamically as the occasion demands, who have sound judgement, and common sense.

      In the spiritual traditions these words have a very deep meaning. The Sanskrit word jnana (spiritual knowledge) especially has a deep significance. It is often translated as “illumination,” as light is used as a synonym for knowledge. Light dispels darkness so also spiritual knowledge dispels ignorance and reveals our true nature. True wisdom is defined as the experience of God and is the topic of “The Light of Wisdom.”

      In Part One, “Knowledge,” the authors help us appreciate the subtle differences between intellectual knowledge and true wisdom. They affirm that it may be possible to get a general knowledge about God through studying the scriptures. But if our goal is true wisdom, we eventually have to leave the words for the actual experience. Just like reading books on physical fitness do not make us fit unless we actually exercise, in the same way intellectual knowledge has to be assimilated before it can be termed as true wisdom. To have this spiritual awakening becomes the topic of Part Two, “The Journey.” The authors here show that the real journey is to go within. Constant observation and reflection of one’s thoughts and activities in everyday life, along with various spiritual practices, purify the mind so that our lives can become transformed.

      The lives of saints and sages are examples of living wisdom. And in Part Three “People of Wisdom” we receive glimpses into the lives of some of these great people.  They demonstrate in their lives the divine qualities of wisdom, love, freedom, purity, and joy, and live in the “peace that passeth all understanding.”

      Thus the crowning glory of human life is to experience God as our Self. We may know much about the objective world, but we can only be truly happy and peaceful when we know and understand the immeasurable treasure that lies within us. The writers in this book urge us not to be satisfied with book knowledge, but to go deeper still in order to perceive the priceless pearl that lies within.

The Editors