The power of truth

Satyameva Jayate, the inscription on our national emblem, means truth alone triumphs. In these times when misinformation is rampant, it is a challenge to uphold honesty and transparency in personal and professional spheres, more so because each one’s moral compass differs. The importance of truthfulness, with its roots in ancient Vedic texts, is the core of teachings in Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism – and is the very essence of dharma. The Sanskrit phrase Satyam Shivam Sundaram signifies that truth is akin to divinity and is inherently beautiful. The Bible also stresses on righteousness and truth. The Quran condemns falsehood and hypocrisy, urging believers to be truthful even when it is difficult. 

Lies are exposed by the lie detector or polygraphs because of several physiological changes; it is based on the theory that lying causes stress, which leads to measurable changes in bodily functions. If the body, mind, and soul are interlinked, can we undermine the effect of lying on our karma and soul? Asatya, falsehood, creates negative energy as distortion of truth leads to cyclical deception and inner conflict.

However, is it possible to abstain from lying in this day and age? Highly unlikely. Even Yudhistra, the epitome of truthfulness, had to resort to half a lie in order to win the battle of Mahabharata. 

The moral angle portrays lies in five different colours: a white lie being harmless is uttered to avoid hurting someone’s feelings while blue lies are to protect someone from punishment. A grey lie is resorted to cover up one’s own mistake. A purple one is resorted to when humility is in question. Red lies are told out of spite or revenge to harm others and a yellow lie is sublime, important and essential to save someone’s life. However, lying is not easy. One needs to have an exceptional memory to keep track of the lies uttered. As Shakespeare says in Hamlet, “To thine own self be true”, be honest with yourseld, live by values and principles and embrace one’s true nature, rather than conform to external pressures or expectations.

Every lie uttered, whatever the colour, is a deviation from righteousness and will have consequences. The path of Satya is a lot more than just telling the truth, it is about living truthfully and ethically, fostering trust and integrity. It refers to the harmonious alignment of one’s thoughts, words, deeds, and actions with the universal principles of honesty.