Srinivasa Ramanujan: 'What a profound privilege to go from one who took the oath from a judge to one who now is in the position to administer the oath as a judge.'

What a profound privilege to go from one who took the oath from a judge to one who now is in the position to administer the oath as a judge.

In his quote, mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan eloquently expresses the profound privilege of transitioning from a person who once took an oath from a judge to someone who now administers such oaths. At first glance, the quote simply highlights the significant journey and transformation in one's life, from being a recipient of justice to a provider of justice. However, when we delve deeper into the underlying philosophy behind this quote, we can explore intriguing concepts such as the cyclical nature of life, personal growth, and the interconnectedness of individuals within society.The first layer of meaning in this quote is relatively straightforward. Ramanujan draws attention to the immense honor and privilege one experiences when transitioning from a person who undergoes legal proceedings, symbolized by taking an oath in a courtroom, to someone who holds a position of authority and responsibility as a judge, who administers oaths to others. This shift in perspective highlights a personal transformation that may have taken place through dedication, hard work, and acquiring the necessary skills and qualifications.However, to truly grasp the depth of this quote, we can introduce the philosophical concept of the wheel of life, often associated with Buddhism. The wheel of life represents the cyclical nature of existence, emphasizing that everything is interconnected and subject to change. Just as the wheel of life turns, taking individuals through various roles and positions, Ramanujan's quote captures the essence of this concept. It illuminates the idea that life is a continuous journey of growth and transformation, where individuals move from one stage to another, experiencing different perspectives and acquiring new responsibilities as they progress.Contrasting the roles of the oath-taker and the oath-administrator brings to light the duality of human existence. When we find ourselves in the position of receiving an oath from a judge, we may be in a vulnerable state, seeking justice, guidance, or resolution. However, once we transition to becoming a judge ourselves, we are tasked with upholding the law and ensuring justice is served. This juxtaposition of roles raises questions about the complexity of personal growth and the responsibilities that come with it. It challenges us to reflect on the nuances of power dynamics within society and the moral dilemmas one may encounter as they navigate between these roles.Moreover, Ramanujan's quote invites us to contemplate the interdependence of individuals within society. The transition from an oath-taker to an oath-administrator implies an inherent reliance on one another. Society cannot exist without the trust and belief that justice will be served, and this trust is symbolized through the administration of oaths. By taking the oath, individuals place their faith in the system, while the administrators shoulder the responsibility of upholding that trust. This interplay between individuals highlights how we are connected, as a collective, through systems of justice and governance.In conclusion, Srinivasa Ramanujan's quote, while seemingly simple, carries profound meaning and philosophical implications. It encapsulates the transformative nature of personal growth, highlighting the cyclical journey of life. By contrasting the roles of the oath-taker and the oath-administrator, this quote prompts us to examine the complexities of power dynamics within society. Ultimately, it invites us to reflect on the interconnectedness of individuals and the importance of trust and responsibility in the pursuit of justice. Through Ramanujan's eloquent words, we are reminded of the privilege and profound impact an individual can have in administering justice to others.