Does the quest for knowledge have an end?  – Knowledge in almost every area can be pursued nearly infinitely. The more we come to know something, the more we may discover how much more there is to know about it. Modern science came to know of the atom as the fundamental building block of matter, and then found that the atom, far from being irreducible, is a vast universe populated with many fundamental particles.

If every area of knowledge can be explored endlessly, does that mean that every area is equally worth exploring endlessly? Not necessarily. Consider a digging metaphor. If we dig deep enough anywhere, we might at some point come upon something interesting or enriching. And we can keep digging anywhere, if we get the necessary finance and technology. But does that make all places equally worth digging? No; digging at a potential gold mine will be far more rewarding. 

Pertinently, the Bhagavad-gita explains that among various forms of knowledge, the most important is spiritual knowledge (10.32). knowledge of who we are and what we are meant to do. Outlining such knowledge, the Gita (15.07) explains that we all are parts of the ultimate reality, Krishna, meant to live in eternal loving harmony with him. Because he is all-attractive, he is the embodiment and fulfillment of everything we seek (07.19). Considering the second meaning of ‘end’ as ‘purpose’, he is the end of knowledge — those who know him are enlightened (10.08). 

Simultaneously,  because his glories are unlimited, the enlightened delight in further enlightening each other about him (10.09). Indeed, knowing him is an ecstatic journey that has no end (10.18). 

One-sentence summary:

The quest for knowledge ends in the all-attractive ultimate reality, Krishna, and relishing his unlimited glories is the endless end of all knowledge.

Think it over:

  • How may every field of knowledge be pursued endlessly?
  • Why is seeking knowledge of Krishna the most rewarding? 
  • How does the quest for knowledge both end and remain endless? 

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10.18: O Janardana, again please describe in detail the mystic power of Your opulences. I am never satiated in hearing about You, for the more I hear the more I want to taste the nectar of Your words.

Does the quest for knowledge have an end?

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