Understanding Infinity: A Philosophical Enigma

In the vast expanse of theological and philosophical discourse, the concept of infinity holds a unique place. From the realm of the divine to the realm of mortal imagination, the idea of infinity invites a contemplation that transcends material boundaries. This exploration seeks to unravel whether infinity is a creation of divine perception or a concept rooted in mortal imagination.

The Role of Perceptions

Our perceptions of infinity are shaped by the way we interpret and understand the world around us. Some individuals, particularly those who believe in the immortality of the soul, acknowledge a past and future existence marked by an infinite number of births. This belief suggests that the soul, separated from the physical body, experiences an infinite journey through time and existence.

However, it is crucial to differentiate between the creation of infinity and its perception. The belief in an infinite soul does not necessitate the belief in an infinite deity. Rather, it reflects a personal interpretation of a greater cosmic reality. The notion of infinity can be seen as a natural extension of the concept of the infinite soul, which may or may not be attributed to a divine entity.

Perception: Limited vs. Unlimited

The way we perceive the world can drastically influence our understanding of infinity. Two types of perceive can be distinguished:

Limited Perception: This view is often shaped by the physical senses and material reality. For example, when asked about the cause of road accidents, one might attribute them to external factors such as heavy traffic, faulty vehicles, poor signaling, or road conditions. Unlimited Perception: This perspective transcends the physical senses to encompass a more profound understanding. It assigns the root cause of road accidents to the human ego, which is the misalignment of personal desires and the well-being of others. This philosophical approach is rooted in the understanding that the ego is the product of poor upbringing and lack of divine knowledge.

The Bhagavat Gita, a sacred text in Hinduism, emphasizes the concept of dual vision, where two types of individuals are distinguished—those with divine vision and those with limited vision. Individuals with limited vision fail to recognize the immaterial reality that underpins the physical universe and their own existence. This limited vision is characterized by a heightened focus on material desires and the perception that one's life and existence are independent of a divine entity.

The Consequences of Limited and Unlimited Perceptions

From a limited perception standpoint, life is viewed through the lens of physical needs and desires. This perspective leads to a cycle of lust, anger, attachment, greed, pride, and envy, which contribute to a miserable existence. This is further illustrated by the Bible, particularly in Revelation 13:17-18, which describes these vices as the "number of the beast" and their embodiment of human qualities when ruled by ego. This cycle is akin to the concept of hell, where these vices are rampant and destructive.

In contrast, the unlimited perception is characterized by a broader understanding of the soul and the divine. Here, every life is seen as part of an infinite series of births and deaths. The universe is vast, and the earth is but a speck in the grand scheme of things. This perception fosters a sense of humility and non-self-importance, which leads to actions driven by purity, joy, love, peace, divine knowledge, and bliss. This is akin to the idea of heaven, where the soul is in harmony with the divine.

The Original Command and the Symbolic Nature of Perception

The original symbolic command of God, “You will die if you eat of the tree of knowledge of good and evil,” is often misunderstood. This command is rooted in the idea of adopting an unlimited perception. It is not about physical death but about the transformation of the way one perceives the world. As stated in the Bible, "she who lives for pleasure is dead even while she is still alive." This emphasizes the importance of living according to divine knowledge and the avoidance of vices that lead to moral decay.

The word demonic in the Bhagavat Gita does not refer to the belief in demons but to those who possess limited vision. These individuals are governed by their ego and desires, leading to a life filled with vices such as lust, anger, attachment, greed, pride, and envy. The term "demonic" is used to describe this cycle of actions and attitudes, which contrasts sharply with the divine qualities of purity, joy, and peace.

The Cycle of History and the Infinite Nature of Existence

The cycle of history is often compared to the growth of a mustard tree, which starts small and grows into a big, hypocritical entity. This metaphor illustrates the moral decay and spiritual decline that occurs over time. Importantly, this cycle implies that human history has no beginning or end; it is infinite. This infinite nature is the result of various cycles that govern the fabric of the universe.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the concept of infinity is deeply intertwined with the nature of our perceptions. Whether perceived as a creation of divine perception or a concept of mortal imagination, infinity challenges us to think beyond the confines of material existence. It invites us to explore the depths of our souls and the greater cosmic reality that transcends our immediate physical experiences.