Quotes With Meaning
In the Hindu religion, one can[not] have freedom of speech. A Hindu must surrender his freedom of speech. He must act according to the Vedas. If the Vedas do not support the actions, instructions must be sought from the Smritis, and if the Smritis fail to provide any such instructions, he must follow in the footsteps of the great men.
In the Hindu religion, one can[not] have freedom of speech. A Hindu must surrender his freedom of speech. He must act according to the Vedas. If the Vedas do not support the actions, instructions must be sought from the Smritis, and if the Smritis fail to provide any such instructions, he must follow in the footsteps of the great men.
This quote addresses the constraints on freedom of speech within Hinduism as articulated by B.R. Ambedkar. It emphasizes that a follower must prioritize adherence to the Vedas, which are foundational texts in Hindu philosophy. If the Vedas do not provide guidance on a particular matter, the next step is to consult the Smritis, which are supplementary scriptures. Ambedkar argues that if neither of these sources offers clear direction, an individual should look to the actions and teachings of respected figures from history. This perspective reflects a mindset that values tradition and collective wisdom over individual expression, suggesting that true freedom in this context comes from aligning oneself with established doctrines and the insights of great leaders. Such a viewpoint raises important questions about the balance between personal freedom and communal responsibility. Ultimately, it invites reflection on how we navigate our beliefs and responsibilities within a framework of established norms.