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In India there was a sense of time that does not tick with…

“In India there was a sense of time that does not tick with modern clocks, just as there is a knowledge that is not gained through science and empirical experiments. In the modern West knowledge is of objective, finite particulars in historical time. India recognizes that kind of useful…” quote by Huston Smith
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“In India there was a sense of time that does not tick with modern clocks, just as there is a knowledge that is not gained through science and empirical experiments. In the modern West knowledge is of objective, finite particulars in historical time. India recognizes that kind of useful information: it calls it "lower knowledge." Higher knowledge (paravidya) proceeds differently, or rather it doesn't proceed at all but enters history full-blown on the morning of a new creation.”

Huston Smith

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

India distinguishes between practical, observable knowledge and a deeper, timeless wisdom that transcends empirical methods.

In simple terms: India sees two kinds of knowledge: practical and timeless.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and value both practical and transcendent insights.

Themes

culture philosophy knowledge spirituality

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • education
  • personal growth
  • cross‑cultural dialogue
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

epistemology transcendence tradition

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we integrate timeless wisdom with modern science?
  • What practices help access deeper insight?
A Different Perspective

Such timeless knowledge may be vague and hard to verify.

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