Debate, discussion and contemplation nourish the intellect. Prejudice, stigmas and dogmas are detrimental to intellect. The intellect harbours inhibitions, likes and dislikes, approvals and disapprovals. The intellect also harbours wisdom, which brings forth intuition.
*Question:* Is intuition beyond intellect?
*Gurudev:* Yes, but it shines through the intellect.
*Question:* Are emotions and intellect contradictory?
*Gurudev:* They can be contradictory.
*Question:* When there is conflict, which is better?
*Gurudev:* In conflict, there is no better conflict!
The pure intellect is not caught up in the emotions and becomes impure, like muddy water. Then it is unable to reflect the Self. A pure intellect, still and serene, reflects the Self.
*Question:* Is intellect affected by karma?
*Gurudev:* Karma does not afflict the pure intellect. Liberation purifies the intellect. The _Sanskrit_ word for intellect is buddhi; one who is liberated is a Buddha; one with little intelligence is buddhu (foolish).