Water,' the Indian tradition has it, 'seems to man as a…
““Water,' the Indian tradition has it, 'seems to man as a drink, as emerald to Devas, as bloody pus to Pretas, as houses to fishes.' Water is not a whit less real because of its seeming as houses to fishes, and fishes' houses are not less real because of its seeming as emerald to Devas. There is nothing that proves the unreality of it. It is a gross illusion to conceive reality as transcendental to appearances.””
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 argues that reality is not diminished by differing perceptions; appearances are not less real, and treating appearances as less real is an illusion.
In simple terms: Different views don't make something less real; appearances are part of reality.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the validity of multiple perspectives.
Themes
perception
reality
illusion
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- everyday observation
- scientific inquiry
- artistic interpretation
Key Concepts
ontology
phenomenology
relativism
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you reconcile conflicting perceptions?
- What role do appearances play in your worldview?
A Different Perspective
Believing appearances are inferior can limit understanding.