Relative Being Vs Ultimate Being (Σχετικό Όν Vs Απόλυτο Όν)

-From my text on the Logos (The Word).

In Meleticism, the distinction between relative being and ultimate being has a fundamental role in understanding existence, consciousness and the nature of reality. The terms relative and ultimate describe different states of being, each of which carries its own implications for how we perceive and interact with the world in accordance with our understanding.

The word relative in Meleticism refers to something that is context, such as dependent, changeable or contingent upon other certain factors. It implies variability, flux and interaction with other elements of existence. By contrast, the term ultimate refers to something that is final, absolute and invariable, which is a state of being that is independent, unaltered and unconditioned by external circumstances.

This distinction is significant because it helps us differentiate between transient aspects of reality and fundamental aspects of existence. Consciousness itself assumes a vital role in this differentiation, as it is through conscious thought that we realise and categorise the relative and the ultimate states of being.

In the observable universe, nature, the cosmos and the underlying structure of reality can be considered ultimate in their complete and total form. However, the things that occupy nature, the cosmos or our reality, such as physical objects, living beings and even thoughts are largely relative. These things exist in states of flux, influenced by time, causation and interaction with other evolving forces.

To further understand relative being, we must acknowledge that everything within the domain of the physical world is subject to change. Matter, motion and mind, which are the three essential components that define physical and conscious existence are all inherently relative. They operate within systems of transformation, where one state gives rise to another, creating a continuous cycle of development and dissolution.

For instance, the mind is relative because its thoughts, emotions and perceptions are constantly shifting. Our mental states are influenced by experiences, external stimuli and even our own introspective reflections. Similarly, motion is a relative phenomenon that exists only in contrast to stillness and is always dependent on some force acting upon it. Matter, too, is relative as it can be shaped, altered or broken down into smaller constituents through natural processes.

The cosmos, nature and all perceivable reality are filled with genuine substances that exist in relative states. Stars form and collapse, species evolve and go extinct, civilisations rise and fall. The universe as we experience it is a dynamic system in which everything is interconnected, through cycles of cause and effect.

Whilst relative being is characterised by change, ultimate being is defined by permanence, independence and an unchanging essence. In Meleticism (Το Ένα), Greek for the One is understood as the ultimate reality. It is not contingent upon anything else for its existence, nor does it undergo transformations that would alter its fundamental nature.

Unlike physical matter, which is dependent on forces such as gravity, energy and time, To Ena exists beyond contingency. It is not subject to causation, nor does it emerge from something prior. To Ena simply is in a way that no other entity or phenomenon can claim to be in comparison.

This does not mean that To Ena is detached from reality; rather, it is the underlying foundation upon which all things rest. Whilst the relative aspects of existence, such as thoughts, objects and motion may change, they all ultimately derive from and exist within the foundation of To Ena. Multiplicity is compatible to the singularity of the One.

A useful way to explore the distinction between relative and ultimate being is to compare abstract and concrete forms of existence. Abstract entities such as thoughts, ideas and concepts, might be considered ultimate in their form. Though they exist within the realm of the mind, they are not bound by physical constraints. A concept like “justice” or “truth” may be debated, interpreted or applied in various ways, but its fundamental essence remains untouched by the material world.

Concrete entities such as the mind, motion and matter are relative, because they exist within spatial and temporal limitations. The mind can evolve, motion can cease and matter can decay; all demonstrating the inherent impermanence of relative being.

It is important to note, however, that even abstract entities may only be considered ultimate in their essence, not in their application. The idea of justice, for example, might be conceptually ultimate, but its application in society is inherently relative, changing across cultures, legal systems and historical periods.

One of the most essential aspects of this philosophical distinction is how consciousness allows us to perceive and categorise relative and ultimate being.

Human beings operate primarily within the realm of relative existence. Our thoughts change, our bodies age and our surroundings shift constantly. However, through meditation, deep contemplation and philosophical enquiry, we can realise the presence of the ultimate within and beyond us.

In Meleticism, this recognition is essential to personal and intellectual growth. The more we attune our awareness to the unchanging foundation of existence, the more we can navigate the relative world with clarity and purpose. We do not need to reject relativity, but understand its unique place within the grander scheme of ultimate being.

Understanding this philosophical distinction has profound implications for how we perceive life, existence and our own personal development.

Realising that thoughts, emotions and circumstances are relative allows us to cultivate a sense of inner balance. We become less attached to fleeting conditions and more centred in the awareness of the ultimate foundation of being.

Because relative being is characterised by transformation, we can learn to embrace change rather than resist it. The natural cycles of life, growth and even loss become more comprehensible when we see them as part of the changing, relative nature of existence.

By acknowledging To Ena as the ultimate reality, we can shift our focus from superficial concerns to deeper existential truths. Meditation, contemplation and the practice of self-awareness help us move beyond the distractions of the relative world and towards an understanding of the unchanging essence of being.

Understanding the contrast between relative and ultimate being allows us to make decisions that are more aligned with wisdom, reason and virtue. Instead of being driven by temporary desires and external influences, we can act with a deeper sense of purpose and alignment with fundamental truths.

The distinction between relative and ultimate being in Meleticism is not just an abstract idea; it is a practical structure for understanding existence and consciousness. The world we interact with is filled with relative entities, from material objects to fleeting thoughts. However, beneath this changing landscape, there exists an unchanging foundation, which is the Ena, the ultimate reality.

This understanding of relative and ultimate being not only deepens our perception of existence, but enhances our ability to cultivate wisdom, patience and inner peace also. By realising that the transient aspects of life, which are our emotions, struggles and even achievements are part of the relative realm, we can approach them with a balanced perspective, neither becoming overly attached nor indifferent. At the same time, by aligning ourselves with the awareness of To Ena we develop a greater sense of grounding that remains unshaken by external changes. This integration of knowledge allows us to live with more intentionality, embracing both the dynamic flow of existence and the external foundation of our reality.

By accepting both the transient and the eternal, we gain a more profound understanding of our own human nature. This realisation allows us to navigate life with greater clarity, purpose and equanimity, balancing the changing tides of the relative state of being world whilst staying rooted in the awareness of the ultimate state of being that reflects our existential truth.

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