Definition
(x-a) (x-b)
My algebra Teacher had taught this .
I even got good marks in the examination reproducing what was taught .
But as a kid the practical application in normal mathematics came to me only-through a shortcut I learn’t in Vedic maths.
Example:
978 x 990
written as (1000-22)(1000-10)
the short cut doesn’t bother to explain the definition/formula. It simply says “do this mentally, and you get the answer)
I do this:
Step-1: 978 minus 10 (or 990 minus 22, whichever is easier)
I get 968000 (3 zeroes I am ‘asked to add’, no questions)
Step 2 : -22 x -10 , I get = 220
step 3: I add 220 to 968000
answer is = 968220
(Rules are framed under an enacted law, for functionality. Nothing new!)
My physics teacher taught 4 concepts related to water.
Not ‘how to combine and use the 4’
Later, I saw water ‘climbing’ on its own at 2 historical places (Paan-chakki & Golkonda fort).
Armed with these 2 (school physics, and visuals of 2 historical places), I resisted paying bribe to the water-Lineman, when I got a house constructed decades ago!
In those days, water was from a huge tank situated far away, catering a very large area of houses, and by the time it reaches my house at the outer edge, the pressure is inadequate to flow out of my tap, 1.5 feet above ground level.
I attempted to combine the 4 concepts(4 chapters, hydroEngr., related), and guidance from visuals of kid-age visit to the 2 historical places.
I could get water for my domestic needs (without infringing the rules of water-supply, without tapping from underground, illegally )
but the ‘perfection’ in reaching optimal use of the 4 concepts, plus the ancient skills of Bharat, took me 3 decades to ‘reach’.
Moksha/salvation is yet another purpose of life for few at least.
Definitions abound.
Functional application, to reach that state, attain that state aren’t much sought-after. Because, this activity has no relevance in managing the material aspect of life.
I was on the look out for tools & techniques, not the definitions, or meaning of salvation (a guru said, “when you attain... anyway you will know it!”. I have reasons to trust him)
Unlike simple task of learning the use of algebra/physics, I had to pour out myself, to learn the subtleties involved in the time-tested tools....
one good thing is, there are footholds on the pathless path of spirituality (moksha). Once we plant our feet firmly on any of those footholds, chances of slipping down further is very remote.
Undefinedly yours,
psn(16th June, 2026)
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