Srimad Bhagavatam — Ekadasha Skandha, Shloka 9
Sāṅkhya Enumeration of Tattvas, Distinction of Puruṣa–Prakṛti, and the Mechanics of Birth and Death
पौर्वापर्यमतोऽमीषां प्रसङ्ख्यानमभीप्सताम् । यथा विविक्तं यद्वक्त्रं गृह्णीमो युक्तिसम्भवात् ॥ ९ ॥
paurvāparyam ato ’mīṣāṁ prasaṅkhyānam abhīpsatām yathā viviktaṁ yad-vaktraṁ gṛhṇīmo yukti-sambhavāt
Ainsi, quel que soit le penseur qui parle, qu’il inclue dans ses calculs les éléments au sein de leurs causes subtiles antérieures ou au sein de leurs produits manifestés ultérieurs, J’accepte ses conclusions comme faisant autorité, car une explication logique peut toujours être donnée pour chacune des théories.
Although innumerable philosophers may rationally describe the material creation from different points of view, one cannot perfect one’s knowledge without Kṛṣṇa consciousness. An intellectual person should therefore not be falsely proud simply because he has ascertained a particular truth within the material world. The Lord here states that one who follows the Vedic way of analysis will undoubtedly have many insights concerning the material creation. Ultimately, however, one must become a devotee of the Supreme Lord and perfect one’s knowledge in Kṛṣṇa consciousness.
FAQs
This verse says that when enumerating the principles of reality, one should accept the sequence that is clearly presented and supported by sound reasoning.
Krishna is guiding Uddhava through subtle philosophical analysis, clarifying that among differing presentations of categories, the coherent, well-reasoned, and clearly expressed arrangement should be accepted.
When studying scriptures or philosophies with multiple frameworks, prioritize interpretations that are internally consistent, clearly explained, and supportive of genuine spiritual realization rather than confusion or argument.