April 13, 2026

One day, Socrates was sitting with his disciples. There was silence all around, and everyone was listening to him attentively. Suddenly, Socrates asked a question: What is true knowledge?

The disciples began answering one by one. Some said knowledge comes from books, others said it comes from experience, and some said it comes from a teacher. Socrates simply smiled and said nothing.

After a while, he pointed to a man nearby who was herding sheep. Socrates asked: Why are these sheep following him?
A disciple replied: Because he is their master.

Socrates then asked: What if this master leads them on the wrong path?
Hearing this, all the disciples fell silent.

Socrates said: This is our greatest problem. We too follow others without thinking—whether it is society, tradition, or a leader.

True knowledge is not what you merely hear. True knowledge is what you think through, understand, and examine for yourself before accepting.

Following the crowd is easy. Thinking for yourself is difficult—but it is the right path.
Questioning is the beginning of true wisdom.

~ Saman Shrutpragya