Human civilization has crossed eons of time—across various epochs and has finally arrived at this scientifically advanced and technologically astute modern age. Although supposedly cutting-edge, extremely innovative, and progressive, this era is described as the Iron Age or ‘Age of Kali’—teeming with conflicts, hypocrisy, duplicity, and quarrels.
Adharma…
Almost all of us can attest to the fraudulent and deceitful practices prevalent in this iron age. We have all experienced mishaps and misadventures caused by lies, deceit, fraud, etc., either in our lives or those of others, caused by or inflicted on us. We have all been at the receiving or giving end of betrayal and deception in this world. The ancient Vedic texts describe this Cheating tendency as inherent in an ordinary person.
Dharma…
As per the holy Vedic scriptures, the Dharma (righteousness) is supported by four integral values: Mercy, Austerity, Truth, and Cleanliness. Three of these core values have been destroyed and quashed over the ages by the denigrating effect of time. Only one core value has withstood the test of time and stands tall, upholding the Dharma in this age.
This age is supported by only one fundamental principle—‘Truth’. Despite all its flaws, shams, and drudgery, this iron age is upheld by one very beautiful core value—the Truth (Satya).
Therefore, it is said— ‘The Truth shall Prevail’- ‘Satyamev Jayate.’
This statement of sacred wisdom books seems contradictory to what we see and experience in modern times. The contemporary world seems to be teeming with extremely flawed, fake people and their false and treacherous practices, thereby making it impossible to appreciate the presence of ‘Truth’ as the upholder and protector of these troubling times.
Absolute vs. Relative
It must be clarified- which truth shall prevail. There are two types of truth – the more common kind, ‘relative truth,’ that often changes based on one’s perceptions, experiences, personal opinions, beliefs, etc., and is typically situational or individual and, therefore, relative. ‘My truth vs your truth’.
Which truth shall prevail…
Thus, it is not the relative truth that is supposed to prevail—rather, the Absolute truth, which is ultimate, unchanging, eternal, and not temporary or circumstantial. Rather, Absolute truth is incredibly powerful- it supports the entire creation and is the basis of humanity. As a result, it is the only foundational support of Dharma in this so-called ‘iron-clad age’ of Kali.
Where does Absolute Truth reside?
This absolute truth resides in the pages of wisdom books, protected within the core of the hearts of great devotees and spiritualists who lovingly take its shelter. It is their refuge and guides their movements in an otherwise false world.
The Bhagavad Gita describes the Supreme Person Krishna as the absolute truth, the object of all knowledge, the conclusion of all scriptures, and the goal of life. Understanding and achieving the ultimate supreme truth is the purpose of all philosophy and the aim of human life. Actions aligned with the will of absolute truth are called Dharma.
Allow the truth to expand…
It also resides in the deepest recesses of our dark hearts, often covered and neglected due to our lower nature and cheating propensities. But the more we listen to its voice and allow it to guide us- the more it expands in our lives. Thus, living truthfully, staying true to one’s purpose, and striving for righteous conduct becomes second nature.
Declare it Boldly
In the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna makes several promises to the great warrior, Arjuna, His friend, disciple, and loving devotee. One of those promises that I personally find very comforting and faith-inducing is when He tells Arjuna to declare boldly that His devotee never perishes.
Supreme Person Krishna, being the Absolute Truth (Param Satya), instructs Arjuna to reassure the world that ‘those taking His shelter, or shelter of the absolute truth shall prevail and never perish.’
What does this mean…
When we align our values, dreams, and purpose with those of absolute truth, success is guaranteed. This success of truth over lies, good over evil, is ultimately the triumph of Dharma in our personal lives and humanity at large. The truth shall prevail in our lives if we listen to the voice of truth, give it space to expand, and take its shelter in good times and bad.
Fight the good fight of Dharma.
Those fighting the excellent battle favoring truth and dharma will experience its protection and emerge as ultimate winners. These may be smaller battles with internal conflicts or, more significantly, outside battles with deceitful people and a treacherous world.
Sure, one may have to wait, face challenges, and prove one’s worth- but the truth holder must have patience, trust the promises of the Supreme person, stay determined, and keep fighting the good fight with truth on your side.
Another powerful statement from ancient texts is: ‘Dharmo Rakshati Rakshita’: those who uphold the dharma are protected by the dharma.’
Sometimes, victory is not apparent to us through our limited, short-sighted vision, and it may seem that we have failed despite siding with Dharma. But there is never any loss or failure when conducting oneself with truth. Everything unravels in due course of time, and success is assured by the rule of karmic ‘actions and reactions’ during our journey through various lives, bodies, and timelines.
Absolute truth is an eternal affair, not bound by time- it always wins. It can never be overcome or surpassed, and its plans will always prevail. Therefore, as long as one serves and upholds it in his life- he is assured of an eternal victory that extends beyond this life and this body.
Such a person can declare boldly that: TRUTH SHALL PREVAIL.
What a wonderful blog. The truth will always win even if it takes a while to come to light . Please keep inspiring us with such wonderful blogs.
This is such a wonderful and truthful blog. The truth will always win even if it takes a while to come to light. Please keep inspiring with such wonderful blogs.