SABDA AND LOGOS IN METAPHYSICAL REVELATION: WHEN THE WORD BECOMES FLESH AND FLASH

Abstract

Within Vedāntic and Western philosophical traditions, the concept of the "Word" occupies a central metaphysical position, articulated through distinct ontological and theological frameworks. In Vedānta, Śabda functions as both an ontological principle and an epistemic vehicle through which Brahman is known. In Christianity, Logos signifies the divine, personal Word through whom creation, revelation, and salvation occur. This paper undertakes a comparative philosophical study of Śabda and Logos, exploring their metaphysical status, epistemological functions, cosmological roles, and soteriological significance. By situating Śabda as the ontological ground of revelation and Sphoṭa as the movement of meaningful manifestation, the study highlights significant convergences in understanding the Word as ultimate reality across both traditions, while respecting their unique doctrinal boundaries. By analyzing these two distinct frameworks, this paper identifies significant philosophical convergences that position the Word as the ultimate ground of reality. It demonstrates that both traditions conceptualize the Word not merely as human speech, but as a cosmic, revelatory force bridging the intellect with the divine. Ultimately, this research respects unique doctrinal boundaries while illustrating a shared metaphysical intuition regarding the divine word.

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