Ramakrishna: 'Many good sayings are to be found in holy books, but merely reading them will not make one religious.'

Many good sayings are to be found in holy books, but merely reading them will not make one religious.

The quote by Ramakrishna, 'Many good sayings are to be found in holy books, but merely reading them will not make one religious,' holds a deep meaning and significance. In a straightforward interpretation, it suggests that simply reading religious texts or reciting holy sayings does not automatically make a person religious. It implies that religiousness is not merely a passive act of acquiring knowledge, but rather an active pursuit that requires a deep personal connection and understanding of the teachings.This quote emphasizes the importance of practicing what is preached, rather than treating spiritual texts as a mere collection of wise words. It underlines the idea that true religiousness lies in the application of these teachings in one's daily life, promoting values such as compassion, love, and selflessness. Reading sacred texts alone without internalizing their teachings and incorporating them into one's actions is futile. It is the embodiment of these teachings that ultimately transforms an individual into a truly religious person.However, to delve deeper into the essence of this quote, let's introduce an unexpected philosophical concept – existentialism. Existentialism, a philosophical movement that emerged in the 20th century, emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and the importance of personal choice. This concept may seem at odds with religiosity, as it often challenges the authority of external sources, such as religious scriptures, in determining one's beliefs and values.Contrasting the existentialist view with Ramakrishna's quote brings an interesting perspective. Existentialism might argue that relying solely on holy books for religious guidance neglects personal freedom and authenticity. From this standpoint, being religious is not about blindly following pre-established guidelines, but rather engaging in an individual journey of self-discovery and personal meaning-making.Nonetheless, Ramakrishna's quote does not necessarily contradict existentialism, but rather provides a complementary viewpoint. It acknowledges the importance of the wisdom found in holy books while cautioning against a passive and superficial approach to religiousness. Instead, it encourages seekers to actively engage with the teachings, analyzing them critically, and integrating them into their own lives. In this sense, Ramakrishna's perspective aligns with the existentialist emphasis on personal choice and the responsibility to actively construct one's religious path.In conclusion, Ramakrishna's quote serves as a reminder that religiousness goes beyond reading holy books. It invites individuals to embody the teachings they encounter, emphasizing the importance of active participation rather than mere theoretical knowledge. While existentialism may challenge the role of external authority, it harmonizes with this perspective by highlighting the importance of personal engagement and active choice in one's journey towards religious transformation. Ultimately, it reminds us that true religiosity is not found solely in words written on pages, but rather in the hearts and actions of individuals.