When asked: “Aap kya kaam karta hai?” I reply, “Teacher!” Unsatisfied with this perfunctory reply, I’m normally asked again, “Kaunsa teacher? Teaching what?” When I reply “theology” and “philosophy” — offering deshi equivalents like Ish-shashtra, Dharmashastra, Darshan-shastra and Tattva-gnana — I get vacuous stares and the questioning stops. Apparently, not many comprehend or are even concerned about what theology and philosophy teach.
Realising the enduring value of philosophy for the development of human thought for each culture and each individual, UNESCO decided in 2002 that every third Thursday in November be celebrated as “World Philosophy Day”. Today, stop awhile, and ask: “Why?”
Whether you’re aware of it or not, when a “Why?” arises in your mind, and you set upon a process of reflection to get answers to that “Why?” you are already a philosopher — philosophising on issues that interest or intrigue you.
“Philosophy” derives from two Greek words: “Philia” meaning “love” and “Sophia”, wisdom. Love of wisdom! Don’t we treasure the company of wise people who shed light on perplexing problems with their words of advice, refreshing insights, and relentless resolve to lead us to the depths of truth?
“An unexamined life is not worth living,” said Socrates, exhorting everyone to examine the whence and whither of one’s life. One who reflects upon all these is a philosopher. So, keep questioning! You’ll find answers, or, you’ll be rewarded with more questions — leading to truth, wisdom and knowledge.
On “World Philosophy Day” let’s be glad and grateful for philosophers and their philosophies — Indian and otherwise.
H11
