"Knowledge Alone Is God" is a profound statement from the Tamil poet and freedom fighter Subramania Bharati, emphasizing the transformative and divine power of knowledge. Bharati was a visionary thinker whose poetry often blended ideas of nationalism, social reform, and spiritual wisdom. This line encapsulates his belief in knowledge as not only a tool for personal enlightenment but also as a force that can uplift society, free the mind, and bring one closer to the divine.
Bharati's Vision of Knowledge
For Bharati, knowledge was synonymous with empowerment and liberation. He believed that the pursuit of knowledge is a spiritual and moral duty. In a society steeped in ignorance, superstition, and social hierarchies, Bharati saw knowledge as the means to challenge unjust structures and inspire progress.
In his poem "Vidyaiyum Valimaiyum" (Knowledge and Strength), he declares:
"Vidyaiyum valimaiyum naan vendum, veeramum vendum, endru kollvadhey aram"
"I desire knowledge, strength, and courage, for these are the true virtues."
Here, Bharati equates knowledge with strength and valor, implying that a well-informed mind is capable of achieving great things. For him, knowledge wasn’t confined to mere book learning but included wisdom, moral courage, and the inner strength to fight injustice. Knowledge for Bharati is action-oriented; it must lead to the betterment of society.
Divine Nature of Knowledge
Bharati’s belief in the divine nature of knowledge aligns with ancient Indian philosophical traditions, where "Vidya" (knowledge) is seen as a form of worship. His concept of "Knowledge Alone Is God" resonates with the Vedantic idea of "Brahman"—the ultimate reality, which is often identified with pure consciousness and knowledge.
In one of his famous lines, he writes:
"Suthanthiram ennum suvadiyai sindhaikkan padaikka vidaiyai, arivai udaiya ulagukku aruLai vaitha deivam"
"The god who created freedom, and gave the world the gift of knowledge and grace."
Here, Bharati calls knowledge a divine gift, essential for creating a world where freedom and justice can thrive. It indicates that knowledge has the power to guide humanity toward liberation, not only from colonial rule but from mental slavery and ignorance. Knowledge, therefore, is the gateway to realizing the divine within oneself and the world.
Knowledge as a Tool for Social Reform
One of the recurring themes in Bharati's work is social equality. He was deeply influenced by the idea that ignorance perpetuates social divisions, such as caste and gender inequality. In his view, education and knowledge are the great equalizers that can break the chains of oppression.
In his poem "Puthumai Penn" (The New Woman), Bharati writes:
"Sutantiram enra chollai, swargathil kandenamma"
"I found the word freedom even in heaven, O Mother."
He envisions a new, educated woman who is free from the old shackles of tradition and superstition. Through knowledge, Bharati believed that women could gain the independence and strength they deserved, allowing them to participate fully in shaping the future of society.
The Role of Knowledge in Freedom Struggle
Bharati was also a staunch advocate of India’s freedom from British rule. He considered ignorance as one of the greatest hurdles to achieving independence, which is why he often equated "Vidya" (education) with "Swaraj" (self-rule). He believed that true freedom comes only when the mind is free, and knowledge is the key to unlocking that freedom.
In his poem "Endru Thaniyum Intha Sudhandira Thagam?" (When Will This Thirst for Freedom Quench?), he speaks of the desire for freedom:
"Thani Manidhanukku unavillai enil, jagaththinai azhithiduvom"
"If one man goes without food, we shall destroy the entire world."
This powerful statement underscores Bharati’s sense of social justice and the idea that knowledge of one’s rights and dignity is a prerequisite for freedom. He believed that as long as ignorance prevailed, the struggle for freedom would continue.
Knowledge as Unity and Harmony
Bharati also saw knowledge as a force that could unify people across divisions of caste, creed, and religion. In his poem "Vande Mataram", he speaks of India’s diversity and the importance of national unity. His vision of knowledge was not just for individual upliftment but for collective enlightenment, where every citizen is aware of their rights and duties.
In his poem "Agni Kunchondru Kanden", he writes:
"Anbil kothida sindhanaigal manam ondraai vanthidumo"
"Will the thoughts blossomed by love ever unite all hearts?"
Here, Bharati speaks to the harmonizing power of knowledge, which when accompanied by love, can transcend social barriers and bring unity.
Subramania Bharati’s declaration that "Knowledge Alone Is God" reflects his deep understanding of knowledge as a transformative, divine, and liberating force. He saw it as the essence of empowerment, the foundation of justice, and the cornerstone of a progressive society. For Bharati, knowledge was not only a means to fight colonial oppression but also a spiritual path to realizing the divine potential within every individual.
By advocating for education, equality, and justice through his poetry, Bharati has left a legacy that continues to inspire movements for social change. His work is a testament to the enduring belief that knowledge is the ultimate power, capable of lifting individuals and entire nations out of darkness and into the light of freedom and progress.
