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Chase Eternal Essentials Not The Fickle Non Essentials - Swami Vivekananda - Ancient Hindu Wisdom

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There are two sorts of truth we find in our Shastras, one that is based upon the eternal nature of man — the one that deals with the eternal relation of God, soul, and nature; the other, with local circumstances, environments of the time, social institutions of the period, and so forth. The first class of truths is chiefly embodied in our Vedas, our scriptures; the second in the Smritis, the Puranas, etc.

We must remember that for all periods the Vedas are the final goal and authority, and if the Puranas differ in any respect from the Vedas, that part of the Puranas is to be rejected without mercy. We find, then, that in all these Smritis the teachings are different. One Smriti says, this is the custom, and this should be the practice of this age. Another one says, this is the practice of this age, and so forth. This is the Achara which should be the custom of the Satya Yuga, and this is the Achara which should be the custom of the Kali Yuga, and so forth. 

Now this is one of the most glorious doctrines that you have, that eternal truths, being based upon the nature of man, will never change so long as man lives; they are for all times, omnipresent, universal virtues.

But the Smritis speak generally of local circumstances, of duties arising from different environments, and they change in the course of time. This you have always to remember that because a little social custom is going to be changed you are not going to lose your religion, not at all. . .

In plain words, we have to first learn the distinction between the essentials and the non-essentials in everything. The essentials are eternal, and non-essentials have value only for a certain time. . .

Swami Vivekananda 

Additional Explanation - 

Swami Vivekananda's distinction between two kinds of truth in Hindu philosophy encapsulates the profound wisdom of Hinduism. This teaching divides truth into two categories: eternal truths and contextual truths, both of which form the foundation of Hindu thought and spiritual practice. Here, we delve deeper into this idea, its importance, symbolism, universal relevance, and how it can be applied to modern life.

The Two Truths: Eternal and Contextual

  1. Eternal Truths: These are unchanging and universal. They address the fundamental nature of existence, the relationship between God (Brahman), the soul (Atman), and nature (Prakriti). Eternal truths are found in the Vedas and Upanishads, which are considered Shruti (revealed knowledge). Examples include:

    • "Tat Tvam Asi" (You are That) – declaring the unity of the individual soul with the ultimate reality.
    • "Ekam Sat Vipra Bahudha Vadanti" (Truth is One, but the wise call it by different names).

    These truths form the metaphysical and spiritual core of Hinduism, providing a framework for understanding the universe and the self's place within it.

  2. Contextual Truths: These are dynamic and adaptable, addressing the social, cultural, and ethical aspects of life. Found in the Smritis, Puranas, and other texts, they include laws, rituals, and guidelines tailored to specific times and places. Examples include the Manusmriti's codes of conduct, which were relevant to their historical context but require reinterpretation for modern society.

Importance and Deep Symbolism

The separation of truths underscores Hinduism's flexibility and timelessness. Eternal truths symbolize the core spiritual reality that transcends time, while contextual truths embody the religion's adaptability to human progress and societal changes. This duality ensures that Hinduism remains relevant across ages, accommodating both universal spiritual quests and practical human needs.

Symbolically:

  • Eternal truths represent the infinite sky, unchanging and vast.
  • Contextual truths resemble flowing rivers, constantly adjusting to the terrain.

Universality and Relevance Across Time

The concept of dual truths is universal, as it aligns with the need for timeless principles and adaptable practices in any belief system. Its relevance transcends the boundaries of Hinduism:

  • In the past, it allowed Hindu society to integrate diverse cultures and philosophies.
  • In the present, it encourages openness to change while holding onto core spiritual values.
  • For the future, it offers a framework for addressing emerging challenges through reinterpretation and innovation.

Similar Ideas in Simpler Terms

Think of eternal truths as the roots of a tree – deep, stable, and foundational. Contextual truths are its branches, leaves, and flowers – ever-changing with seasons but connected to the same source.

For example:

  • Eternal Truth: "The soul is immortal." This remains true regardless of scientific advancements or cultural shifts.
  • Contextual Truth: Specific rituals for honoring ancestors. These may evolve based on societal changes but continue to express the same underlying respect.

Modern-Day Relevance and Applications

In today’s fast-paced world, this teaching is immensely practical:

  1. Spiritual Anchoring: Eternal truths provide a sense of purpose and connection amidst chaos. Meditation on the Upanishadic teaching of the self being divine can help combat feelings of alienation.

  2. Adaptability: The recognition of contextual truths fosters flexibility. For instance, ethical dilemmas in modern professions can be navigated by interpreting dharma (duty) in a contemporary light.

  3. Social Harmony: Understanding the dynamic nature of contextual truths encourages tolerance and acceptance of diverse lifestyles and opinions.

Overcoming Modern Problems

  1. Stress and Anxiety: Eternal truths emphasize inner peace and the unity of existence, offering solace against modern-day stress.

    • Quote: “As the rivers flow into the sea, but cannot make the sea overflow, so flows the magic of the world into the soul that is at peace.” – Bhagavad Gita (2.70)

  2. Ethical Conflicts: Applying contextual truths helps resolve ethical dilemmas by balancing principles with practicality.

    • Story: In the Mahabharata, Yudhishthira adapts his understanding of dharma based on complex circumstances, demonstrating the fluidity of contextual truths.

  3. Cultural Preservation Amid Change: The dual truth framework can guide communities to retain their identity while embracing modernization.

Quotes and Stories Supporting This Teaching

  1. Bhagavad Gita:

    • "Change is the law of the universe. You can be a millionaire, or a pauper in an instant." (Gita 2.14) – Highlights the need to embrace both eternal and changing truths.

  2. Story of Nachiketa (Katha Upanishad): Nachiketa seeks eternal truths about the self from Yama, the god of death. The story illustrates the timeless quest for knowledge that transcends the transient nature of life.


Swami Vivekananda's insight into the two kinds of truth is a cornerstone of Hindu philosophy. Its universality, adaptability, and profound wisdom make it relevant across eras. By anchoring ourselves in eternal truths and navigating life with contextual truths, we can find harmony, resilience, and purpose in the face of modern challenges.