Recorded at the Vedanta Society of Western Washington on April 13, 2014.

In this talk, Swami Bhaskarananda explores the relationship between truthfulness and spiritual growth by distinguishing between truth as mere factual description and truth as deeper, implied meaning. Using stories and everyday examples, he shows how the same event can be interpreted in different ways, and why literalism—especially in matters of religion—can distort understanding and lead to harm. He emphasizes that spiritual life is supported not by superficial correctness alone, but by discernment, context, and a sincere commitment to what is truly meant.

Swami Bhaskarananda then turns to the practice of truthfulness as a discipline of thought, speech, and conduct. He explains the difference between “convenient” truthfulness and truthfulness that remains firm even when it is personally difficult, noting that selfishness is a major obstacle to genuine honesty. He also addresses ethical complexity through episodes from the Mahabharata, including cases where telling the literal truth can endanger innocent lives, and where protecting what is right may require restraint or even a deliberate untruth. Finally, he contrasts relative truths with the highest truth described in Vedanta: the changeless, eternal reality of Brahman. Establishing oneself in truthfulness, he says, strengthens the mind, supports unselfishness, and prepares one for knowledge of the Self.