Ask Osho!

How is Krishna interpreted in the context of Martin Buber's philosophy?

Synthesized from Source definition

"True intimacy transcends the duality of I and Thou; it is the realization that in the essence of existence, there is no separation—only the profound unity of "I am That."

Core Insight:
According to Osho, Martin Buber’s I–Thou remains dualistic; it cherishes intimacy without dissolving the two. From that standpoint, Krishna’s non-dual claim of identity with the divine would be reduced to a safe ‘Thou’ opposed to an ‘I,’ not the annihilation of both. As with Jesus or Mansoor, Buber’s tradition cannot affirm “I am That,” only reverence from separation.
Buber keeps God and person as two; Krishna says they are one—so Buber would miss Krishna’s oneness and keep a respectful gap.
Why this matters practically
- Clarifies whether your path seeks closeness with the divine or total dissolution into it.
- Guides practice choice: relational prayer vs. non-dual meditation/self-inquiry.
- Exposes cultural filters that limit understanding of radical unity statements.
AI Confidence Score: 38% Read Original Discourse →

Related Questions on Krishna

What were the social, political, and religious conditions that necessitated the birth of Krishna?
What does Krishna mean when he says, 'I will come into being for the protection of the righteous and for the destruction of the wicked'?
Is it degrading to emulate Krishna's leelas?
What is the significance of Krishna's conch Panchjanya and his weapon Chakrasudharshan, and how is the Maharaas described in the Bhagavad Gita as a child's play with shadows?
Do old memories create a problem for Krishna when explaining the Geeta to Arjuna?
Does Krishna use his past memories in his relationship with Arjuna?
What should one do to imbibe Krishna's teachings?
What are the special circumstances of Krishna's birth and how do they compare to Christ's birth?
Do you become Krishna when you speak about him?
What is the central theme of the discussion on Krishna?
Explore all questions on Krishna → Explore Osho quotes on Krishna →