An Essay on Tolerance in the Face of Temporariness

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An Essay on Tolerance in the Face of Temporariness

In the grand scheme of our existence, the awareness of jagat, the ever-moving temporariness of the world, fosters a profound tolerance within us. This tolerance is akin to enduring minor nuisances during a journey by train, comforted by the hope that our home is near. The Bhagavad Gita enlightens us on this matter, as Lord Krishna proclaims, "mātrā-sparśās tu kaunteya śītoṣṇa-sukha-duḥkha-dāḥ / āgamāpāyino ‘nityās tāṁs titikṣasva bhārata" (2.14). Here, we are advised to tolerate the fleeting sensations of pleasure and pain, knowing their impermanence.

Our true home, the supreme and inexhaustible abode, lies beyond this temporary sojourn. The Bible echoes this sentiment in 2 Corinthians 4:18, “So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” This divine promise of an eternal home cultivates in us an infinite sahisnuta (tolerance), for the end of suffering is perceived to be near.

As the weary traveler endures the discomforts of a transient journey with the hope of imminent arrival, so too does the wise soul withstand the trials of life. The vision of an ultimate refuge, an everlasting sanctuary, empowers us to bear the vicissitudes of the world with equanimity and patience.

Thus, recognizing the impermanence of jagat instills in us a serene tolerance. It assures us that these transient afflictions are but fleeting shadows, preludes to the eternal light of our true home. This perspective, rich with hope and resilience, is the essence of spiritual endurance and fortitude.

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