Hari OM
'Text-days' are for delving into the
words and theory of Advaita Vedanta.
On Wings and Wheels is the publication we are delving into currently. It
takes the form of a series of Q&As from devotees to HH Pujya Gurudev Swami
Chinmayananda. There are many sections and subsections to this book - not all
will be given, but it is hoped that the general thought-flow will not be broken
for those omissions.
WHAT IS MORALITY?
Q - Swami-ji, how would you interpret the words 'ethics' and
'morality'?
A - The right and healthy values of life that you preserve in
yourself comprise ethics; morality is manifest in your behaviour vis-a-vis the
outer world. Immoral thoughts are not possible. There are either unethical
thoughts, or ethical thoughts. There is no ethical action, but moral and
immoral activity. The two words are used in this sense - one is for the
discipline of one's behaviour in the outer world and in ones relationships, the
other is subjective. Ethical values and moral behaviour. So, unless you have
got healthy ethical values you cannot live a healthy moral life.
Q - Would you say that ethics is the theoretical aspect then?
A - No, the subjective. Ethics is more subjective, something you
have to cultivate in yourself. The its expression in the world outside becomes
morality. A bad man ethically cannot be morally good. A moral man springs from
the ethical values he preserves in himself.
Q - what is the criterion that makes an action right or wrong? How
do we judge its moral worth?
A - Having performed an action, its reaction in the form of
agitation, disturbance, self-criticism, or an accusation, shows that the action
was wrong. That action which in its perpetration brings peace, contentment or
self-congratulation to the mind is a good action. According to Hinduism, that
which gives you sorrow do not give to others; but do unto others as you would
do to yourself. It says much the same in the Bible. It is well known. Therefore
a morally good or morally bad act depends upon whether the action gives you
regret or joy.
