In Philosophy and Spirituality
The notion of ‘The Absolute’ is a profound and enigmatic concept that has intrigued philosophers, theologians, and spiritual seekers for centuries. At its core, The Absolute represents the ultimate reality or truth that transcends ordinary understanding. It is often described as the ever was, the ever is, and the ever shall be, encompassing the past, present, and future in a singular, unified existence.
This concept is not confined to any one religion or philosophical system. It is found in various forms across different cultures and spiritual traditions. In Hindu philosophy, it is known as Brahman, an unchanging, infinite, immanent, and transcendent reality that is the source of everything. Brahman is the ultimate cause and foundation of all existence.
In Buddhism, particularly in its Theravada tradition, the concept of Anatta or ‘non-self’ echoes a similar idea. Anatta suggests that living beings have no unchanging, permanent self, soul, or essence. It points to a kind of Absolute that is devoid of individual identity, yet underpins the nature of existence.
Similarly, in Islamic theology, Allah is the Absolute, encompassing all attributes and beyond all human understanding. Allah is the ultimate reality, creator, and sustainer of the universe, beyond all temporal and spatial limitations.
In Christian mysticism, the term ‘God’ often transcends the anthropomorphic deity figure, representing instead an Absolute that is the ground of all being. This idea is also seen in other forms of monotheism and panentheism, where God is understood as both immanent and transcendent, existing within and beyond the universe.
The concept of ‘The Absolute’ also finds a parallel in Western philosophy, particularly in the idea of Absolute Monism. This philosophy posits that there is only one underlying reality, and all diversity and plurality we observe are merely manifestations of this singular existence.
At the heart of these diverse interpretations is a common thread: The Absolute is the ultimate reality, beyond the grasp of human thought and language, transcending our limited perceptions of time and space. It is a concept that challenges us to look beyond the material and ephemeral world, urging us to ponder the mysteries of existence and the universe.
In exploring ‘The Absolute,’ we delve into the deepest questions of life and existence. It’s a journey that takes us beyond the boundaries of conventional thought, into the realms of spirituality and metaphysical contemplation.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation, Spiritual Life Coaching & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
Morgan O. Smith 