Complete truth, incomplete understanding

Complete truth, incomplete understanding

If we are to believe the existence of an objective truth (objective ontology), we recognize that such truth exists regardless of our understanding or personal narrative. The story of the five blind men and the elephant illustrates this: the blind men recognize the elephant (objective truth) but incompletely represents the complete elephant based on their limited understanding (subjective epistemology).

The five blind men can only approximate the complete reality and truth of the elephant if they go beyond themselves and engage in dialogue. That sense of transcending beyond one’s self – isn’t that the basic definition of spirituality?

Thus, the Spirit of truth is most alive precisely when we engage in discourse and dialogue. The limitations of being human disable us from individually understanding the complete truth. It takes continuous dialogue and a synthesis of multiple narratives to get a more complete picture of the truth.

Authentic discourse is enabled by authentic love.

John Lennon and The Beatles may have committed blasphemy when Lennon said that they were more popular than Jesus (such a twisted sense of humor! Haha!). But they were all into something when they said (and sang):

All you need is love!


John 16:12-15. When the Spirit of truth comes he will lead you to the complete truth

[DAILY GOSPEL INSIGHTS AND REFLECTION FOR MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATION 145: MAY 25, 2022]

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