14. Where does the Root of the Illusion Lie? Now let us…
““14. Where does the Root of the Illusion Lie? Now let us examine where illusion lies hidden from the view of these religionists. It lies deeply rooted in the misconstruction of reality, grows up into the illusive ideas of appearances, and throws its dark shadow on life. The most fundamental error lies in their construing reality as something unknowable existing behind appearances. According to their opinion, all that we know, or perceive, or feel, or imagine about the world, is appearances or phenomena, but not reality itself. Appearances are 'things known as,' but not 'things as they are.' Thing-in-itself, or reality, lies behind appearances permanently beyond our ken. This is probably the most profound metaphysical pit into which philosophical minds have ever fallen in their way of speculation.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The passage critiques religious mysticism that treats reality as unknowable behind appearances, arguing that this creates a deep illusion separating phenomena from true existence.
In simple terms: Religious thinkers mistake appearances for reality, creating illusion.
Key Takeaway
Question assumptions about reality.
Themes
philosophy
religion
metaphysics
Mood
analytical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- academic study
- spiritual practice
- critical thinking
Key Concepts
illusion
appearance vs reality
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you distinguish appearance from reality?
- Can spiritual insight bridge the gap?
A Different Perspective
It may oversimplify diverse religious perspectives that do engage with reality directly.