This brings us naturally to the next question — the value of the individual and hierarchy within the group. Naturally, the value of an individual is proportionate to his adherence to the ideal, and as he grows, the law of mutual interdependence. Hence, it is immensely important that the group encourages the growth of the individual and creates a suitable environment for his evolution. This is not only necessary but indispensable. For if the individual cannot grow, he will sooner or later deviate from the group, move out or come to conflict. Still worse, the group and system would have to drag him to the level of their own standing. Consequently for a group, practically speaking, a hierarchy helps. It prevents confusion and scattering, a false domination.
A king is only useful as long as he knows he is the representative of the nation — a symbol and upholder of the national truth. A king who forgets this truth and lives for himself naturally causes misery and suffering. But the absence of a ruler also invites foreign domination. The important thing, then, is to discover and erect a true inner hierarchy represented by the group-ideal. It is in the ideal that the individual and group combine and harmonise. Harmony is not for the mutual pleasure and satisfaction of one another’s ego. It is not even mutual agreement on an issue achieved by compromise and exchange of interest. Adherence is to the truth of an aim. This is not rigidity but fidelity and plasticity to the force that an idea represents. True harmony is born only when each member of the group begins to owe allegiance to the central aim. And artificial means do not help here. As the individual grows, the others too advance. And since all are potentially capable, the hierarchy is not to be confused with subordination or superiority.
The story of the Israeli victory in 1969 is a case in point. The general defied higher commands for the objective at hand, — to win victory for his nation in a nearly lost battle. He defied and succeeded. He was court-martialled and honoured on both counts. The rule of being at one’s summit and act holds equally true here. The safest and best decisions are those inspired by the highest in us.
