Student Question

What does Siddhartha mean when he says "the opposite of every truth is equally true!" in the last chapter "Govinda"?

Quick answer:

When Siddhartha states "the opposite of every truth is equally true," he emphasizes the duality and transitory nature of life. He suggests that truth is not singular or absolute but rather a complex, multifaceted concept that encompasses contradictions. This understanding reflects Siddhartha's realization that life is an ongoing journey where acceptance of both accepted and rejected truths is vital. It highlights the notion that truth transcends human understanding and should be embraced in its entirety.

Expert Answers

An illustration of the letter 'A' in a speech bubbles

The statement about truth as being one where its force and counter-force are equally present in consciousness helps to bring about the realization of the transitory nature of life.  The "opposite of every truth" being "equally true" helps to reinforce that life is a journey, something that is ongoing.  It is one that Siddhartha has fully understood as one where "truth" cannot be grabbed or held on to without understanding its own sense of being larger than one's own sense of existence.  For Siddhartha, there is a full understanding that the nature of existence is one where truth is evident in everything.  There is not a narrow or pedantic view of being where one element is "accepted" and another "rejected."  Rather, Siddhartha has begun to understand a unity that is present in consciousness, one that argues that there is only truth present.  In what is accepted and what is rejected, there is truth to be grasped and understood.  In this, one no longer concerns themselves with "being" right and rather understands their own duty as being one to embrace right.  In this, truth is multifold and complex, something whose full implications might be outside that of human grasp.

Get Ahead with eNotes

Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.

Get 48 Hours Free Access
Approved by eNotes Editorial