The Lord Is the Master of All Metaphysical Philosophy
Metaphysics is generally understood as the branch of philosophy that deals with the first principles of things, including abstract concepts such as being, knowing, substance, cause, identity, time, and space. In the context of Vedic knowledge, Śrīla Prabhupāda explains that while the Vedas cover all physical and metaphysical subjects, the ultimate goal of this inquiry is not dry speculation but the realization of the Supreme Personality of Godhead. Kṛṣṇa, being the cause of all causes, is the master of all metaphysical philosophy.
Beyond Empirical Research
Philosophers and scientists may use empirical methods to distinguish between physical objects and metaphysical concepts. However, Śrīla Prabhupāda notes that this process has limitations. If one stops at the distinction between matter and spirit without understanding the source of both, the result is impersonal and theoretically dry.
- By the empiric process of philosophical research, one can possibly distinguish the metaphysical subjects from the physical objects; but unless such seekers of truth can reach the personal feature of the AT, they gain only dry, impersonal knowledge of Him.
- By the empiric process, one can possibly distinguish the metaphysical subjects from the physical objects; but unless such seekers of truth can reach the personal feature of the Absolute Truth, they gain only dry, impersonal knowledge.
Sāṅkhya and Metaphysics
European scholars often classify the Sāṅkhya system of philosophy as metaphysics. This analytical study of the creative elements was originally propounded by Lord Kapila to explain the evolution of the cosmic manifestation. However, Śrīla Prabhupāda points out that modern materialistic scientists who ignore the supreme authority of God misuse this method, wrongly concluding that material elements are the original cause.
- Sankhya philosophy is generally called metaphysics by the European scholars.
- The fifth incarnation, named Lord Kapila, is foremost among perfected beings. He gave an exposition of the creative elements and metaphysics to Asuri Brahmana, for in course of time this knowledge had been lost.
- Similarly, there are Sankhya philosophers, metaphysicians or materialistic scientists who study this cosmic manifestation by their invented scientific method and do not recognize the supreme authority of God as the creator of the cosmic manifestation.
Facts, Not Theories
A crucial distinction in Kṛṣṇa consciousness is that Vedic knowledge is not speculative. While Western metaphysics often relies on theoretical postulating, Śrīla Prabhupāda teaches that the descriptions found in the Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam are presented as actual facts and figures by self-realized souls like Śukadeva Gosvāmī.
- Sukadeva Gosvami wants to present the truths of creation not as a metaphysical theory of philosophical speculation but as the actual facts and figures of the subject since he would be dictated to by God exactly in the same manner as Brahmaji was inspired.
- The Vedic truths are all perfect descriptions of the factual truth without any mistake or illusion, and Sukadeva Gosvami wants to present the truths of creation not as a metaphysical theory of philosophical speculation, but as the actual facts.
Master of Philosophy
Śrīla Prabhupāda notes one more point regarding the origin of knowledge: ultimately, it comes from the Supreme Lord. In the Bhagavad-gītā, Kṛṣṇa imparts knowledge that is both metaphysical (jñāna) and scientific (vijñāna). As the supreme enjoyer and the oldest person, He is the master of all philosophical conclusions.
- My dear Lord, You are the topmost of all bestowers of all benediction, the oldest and supreme enjoyer amongst all enjoyers. You are the master of all the worlds' metaphysical philosophy, for You are the supreme cause of all causes, Lord Krsna.
- The knowledge of God imparted in Bhagavad-gita is very subtle and confidential. It is full of jnana, metaphysical wisdom, and vijnana, scientific knowledge. And it is full of mystery also.
Conclusion
Śrīla Prabhupāda asserts that the Vedas are not limited to rituals; they contain comprehensive principles covering social, medicinal, physical, and metaphysical subject matters. However, to understand these truths without mistake, one must approach the Personal Absolute Truth. By surrendering to Kṛṣṇa, the master of metaphysics, the living entity can understand the true nature of time, creation, and the self beyond the gross physical covering.
Dive Deeper into Śrīla Prabhupāda's Vani
Śrīla Prabhupāda lives within his instructions. This article is a summary of the profound truths found in the Vaniquotes category Metaphysical. We invite you to visit this link to study the complete compilation and experience Śrīla Prabhupāda's teachings in their direct, verbatim form.