Brahma Vidya
“Brahma Vidya, the supreme knowledge of the Self, is the central teaching of the Chandogya Upanishad.”
Chandogya Upanishad: Brahma Vidya for The Path to Self-Realization
Brahma Vidya — the supreme knowledge of Brahman — is the essence of the Chandogya Upanishad, a revered text belonging to the Sama Veda. Recognized as one of the Ten Principal Upanishads, the Chandogya Upanishad systematically unfolds the wisdom of the Supreme Self through eight chapters (Prapathakas). This profound scripture, rooted in the poetic rhythms of “Chanda,” guides seekers from ritualistic practices (Karma Kanda) and meditative worship (Upasana Kanda) toward the highest spiritual truth revealed in Jnana Kanda — the Knowledge of Brahman.
The eighth chapter of the Chandogya Upanishad focuses on Brahma Vidya, offering seekers a clear understanding of the ultimate Reality that lies within the heart — not as a physical organ, but as pure, boundless Consciousness. Here, the heart symbolizes the inner essence that transcends the limitations of the body, leading the aspirant toward self-realization and liberation from all worldly bondage.
Brahma Vidya is intended for those who find the concept of the Infinite (Bhuma Vidya) vast and abstract. By centering attention on the heart as the seat of consciousness, the Chandogya Upanishad invites seekers into an intimate exploration of their true, deathless nature.
Introduction to the Chandogya Upanishad—A Journey to the Self
The Chandogya Upanishad, a radiant gem of the Sama Veda, stands among the largest and most revered of all Upanishads. Ranked ninth among the Ten Principal Upanishads, its name—derived from Chanda (rhythm or poetic meter)—reflects the harmonious flow of eternal truth woven through its verses.
This profound text unfolds in eight chapters (Prapāṭhakas), blending inspiring stories with deep philosophical insights.
Two Paths, One Goal
The first five chapters focus on karma and upāsanā—rituals and meditative worship—guiding seekers through action and devotion. But from Chapter Six onward, the Upanishad shifts inward, revealing the path of Jñāna (Self-Knowledge).
Chapters Six, Seven, and Eight form the heart of this inner journey—where Brahma Vidyā, the supreme knowledge of the Self, is lovingly unfolded. This is not mere theory but the direct realization of truth that frees one from fear, sorrow, and worldly bondage.
Why Chapter Eight Matters
The Eighth Chapter is especially accessible for those who find the vast and abstract teachings of Bhooma Vidya (Infinite Reality) challenging. Here, the focus turns gently inward—to the heart.
Not the physical organ, but the subtle space of consciousness within—the dahara ākāśa—where the Supreme Self silently resides. In this sacred centre, we discover a bridge between the finite and infinite.
Through these teachings, the Chandogya Upanishad offers a timeless promise: that the Supreme Reality, sought in scriptures and rituals, dwells within us—waiting to be known, here and now.
A Humble Request to My Readers
Before exploring this powerful Eighth Chapter, I encourage you to read my earlier posts on
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Chapter Six—“Tat Tvam Asi”: The foundational teaching of non-duality.
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Chapter Seven—Bhuma Vidya: The Path to the Infinite.
Recommended Reading Before Chapter 8:
To truly appreciate the depth of the Chandogya Upanishad’s teachings on the Supreme Self and the Space within the Heart, I warmly encourage you to explore these earlier parts of the series:
Tat Tvam Asi (Part 6B)
Discover the transformative Mahavakya “That Thou Art” and its power to dissolve the illusion of separateness.
Chandogya Upanishad—Panchagni Vidya
A mystical teaching on the five fires of creation and the journey of the soul through rebirth.
Essence of Chandogya Upanishad—Part 4B
Foundational insights into the symbolic and spiritual meanings of ritual, devotion, and meditative worship.
Together, these posts create a strong spiritual and philosophical base that leads beautifully into the heart-centered wisdom of Chapter 8.
Section 1: The Universal Self within the Heart:
In this section we will learn that there is the City of Brahman (Brahmapuram), the Absolute, in our own Self.
Mantra 1-2: The Chidakasha Within
Mantras 8.1.1 & 8.1.2—The Chidakasha Within
In this section, the Chandogya Upanishad introduces the metaphor of the City of Brahman (Brahmapuram), symbolizing the human body. Within this city lies the heart, depicted as a lotus-shaped abode. Inside this heart is a subtle space, referred to as the Chidakasha—the space of consciousness.
This inner space is not the physical sky (Akasha), but the inner sky of awareness, the Chidakasha, where the Supreme Self (Brahman) resides. The Upanishad urges seekers to explore this inner realm to realize the ultimate truth.
Sanskrit Verses and Translation
Mantra 8.1.1:
अथ यदिदमस्मिन्ब्रह्मपुरे दहरं पुण्डरीकं वेश्म
दहरोऽस्मिन्नन्तराकाशस्तस्मिन्यदन्तस्तदन्वेष्टव्यं
तद्वाव विजिज्ञासितव्यमिति ॥ ८.१.१ ॥
Translation:
“Now, in this city of Brahman (the body), there is a small lotus-shaped abode (the heart). Within it is a small space (Chidakasha). One should seek to know what is within that space, for it is to be inquired into and realized.”
Mantra 8.1.2:
तं चेद्ब्रूयुर्यदिदमस्मिन्ब्रह्मपुरे दहरं पुण्डरीकं वेश्म
दहरोऽस्मिन्नन्तराकाशः किं तदत्र विद्यते यदन्वेष्टव्यं
यद्वाव विजिज्ञासितव्यमिति स ब्रूयात् ॥ ८.१.२ ॥
Translation:
“If someone asks, ‘In this city of Brahman (the body), there is a small lotus-shaped abode (the heart), and within it is a small space (Chidakasha). What is there to seek or to know in that?’—he should reply accordingly.”
Interpretation and Significance
These mantras emphasize that the body is the dwelling place of Brahman, and within the heart lies the Chidakasha, the subtle space of consciousness. This inner space is the seat of the Supreme Self, and realizing it leads to Self-realization.
The Upanishad encourages seekers to turn inward, to explore this inner sanctuary, and to understand the true nature of the Self. This journey inward is the essence of BrahmaVidya, the knowledge of the ultimate reality.
Mantra 3: The heart is the emblem of the cosmic secret.
Mantra 8.1.3—The Infinite Treasure Within
Following the inquiry about the subtle space in the heart, the Upanishad now explains what truly exists within this sacred space.
Sanskrit Verse and Translation
Mantra 8.1.3:
अथ यदिदमस्मिन्ब्रह्मपुरे दहरं पुण्डरीकं वेश्म
दहरोऽस्मिन्नन्तराकाशस्तस्मिन्नन्तराकाशे सर्वं
तदन्तरं यच्चास्यां दिवि यच्चास्मिन् पृथिव्यां
यच्चास्मिन्नन्तरिक्षे यच्चास्मिन्तदि सर्वं
तदन्वेष्टव्यं तद्वाव विजिज्ञासितव्यमिति ॥ ८.१.३ ॥
Translation:
“As vast as this universe is—the same is the space within the heart. Within it are contained both heaven and earth, fire and air, sun and moon, lightning and stars; whatever is in the macrocosm is also contained within this little space in the heart.”
Interpretation and Significance
This mantra reveals a profound truth:
Though the space within the heart appears tiny, it holds the entire cosmos within it.
The Chidakasha is not limited by physical dimensions. It is the infinite consciousness where all worlds exist — heaven, earth, the elements, the celestial bodies — everything!
Thus, to know the Self within is to know the entire universe.
The journey inward is not just personal — it is a voyage into the boundless cosmic reality. The heart-lotus is not a mere organ but the sacred gateway to the infinite.
Mantra 8.1.4—The Limitless Inner World
In the previous mantra, we discovered that the entire universe exists within the tiny space of the heart. Now, the Upanishad further clarifies: though it seems small, it is truly limitless.
Sanskrit Verse and Translation
Mantra 8.1.4:
तस्यैष एव शान्तोऽतमा आत्मा सम्प्रज्ञानेऽस्ति ।
एष सेतुरविद्यानां भयानां पाऱं तितीर्षतां यदेष
एतस्मादात्मनोऽकाशः सम्भूतः ॥ ८.१.४ ॥
Translation:
“This Self within the heart is indeed free from all evil, it is free from old age, from death, from grief, from hunger and thirst.
It desires only what is to be desired by the mind and wills only what is to be willed by the mind.
This is what is to be sought after and realized.
He who has realized it attains all worlds and all desires.”
Interpretation and Significance
The Heart-Space is Peaceful and Immortal:
The Self (Atman) dwelling in the heart is beyond all impurities— untouched by age, sorrow, death, hunger, thirst, or fear.
The Self is the Ultimate Bridge:
It serves as a bridge to cross over ignorance, fear, and suffering.
It is the pathway to immortality for those who wish to cross the turbulent ocean of life.
Desirelessness and Fulfillment:
The true self desires only what is pure, and through realizing it, one achieves all that is truly worth attaining — true freedom, true bliss.
In essence, seeking the Self within is the most profound journey a being can undertake.
Mantra 8.1.5—The Source of All Creation
We have now seen that the Self within the heart is free, eternal, and blissful.
In this mantra, the Upanishad reveals something even more awe-inspiring: everything originates from that same Self!
Sanskrit Verse and Translation
Mantra 8.1.5:
यावान्वायमाकाशः तावाअयं अन्तरहृदय आकाशः ।
उभे अस्मिन् द्यावापृथिवी अन्तः प्रतिष्ठेते,
उभौ अग्निश्च वायुश्च सूर्यो च चन्द्रमा च विद्युत् च नक्षत्राणि च ।
यच्चास्यिहास्ति यच्च नास्ति, सर्वं तदस्मिन्संहितं तस्माच्छान्त उदितो भवति ।॥
Translation:
“As great as this external space is, so great is the space within the heart.
Within it are contained both heaven and earth, fire and air, sun and moon, lightning and stars—
whatever exists in the universe and whatever does not exist—all is contained within it.
Therefore, one who knows this, becomes calm, content, and fearless.”
Interpretation and Significance
The Heart Reflects the Cosmos:
The Antar-ākāśa (Inner Space) within the heart is as vast as the outer space. There is no real separation— the macrocosm and microcosm are one!
Everything Resides Within You:
Heaven, earth, all elements, the sun, moon, lightning, and stars—everything you perceive externally—is already present inside you, in essence.
Freedom Through Knowledge:
Realizing this truth brings supreme peace. One transcends fear, sorrow, and desires, resting in the serene majesty of the Self.
In short, when you look deep within, you find the entire universe — and beyond — glowing silently in your own heart!
The Universal Self Within the Heart
Mantra 8.1.6—Entering the Supreme State
We have discovered that the heart contains the vastness of all existence. Now, this mantra brings a profound closing to Section 1 by guiding us toward the experience of that reality.
Sanskrit Verse and Translation
Mantra 8.1.6:
स एष आनन्दयति च, मोदयति च, य एवं वेद ।
इत्यध्यात्मम् ।
अथाधिदैवतम् ।
यावदध्यावापृथिव्यौ, यावदाग्निश्च वायुश्च सूर्यश्च चन्द्रमाश्च विद्युतः च नक्षत्राणि च,
यच्चास्यिहास्ति यच्च नास्ति सर्वं तस्य उपासते, तस्य उपासना ।
Translation:
“He causes joy and he causes bliss to those who know him in this way — this is the teaching concerning the Self (Adhyātma).
Now, concerning the Deities (Adhidaivata):
As much as there is of heaven and earth, fire and air, sun and moon, lightning and stars,
whatever exists and whatever does not — all this is supported by Him; all this worships Him.”
Interpretation and Significance
Supreme Bliss:
The Self that dwells in the heart is the source of ultimate joy and bliss. Knowing this brings immediate inner fulfillment.
Unity of the Individual and the Cosmic:
The same Self, known inwardly (Adhyātma) as our true being, is worshiped outwardly (Adhidaivata) through all the cosmic powers—fire, wind, sun, moon, stars, everything!
Self as the Universal Object of Worship:
When you recognize the Self within, you realize that all worship is directed to the same Reality—no matter the form, the rituals, or the symbols.
In simple words:
The universe within and the universe outside are not two. Knowing the self is knowing everything!
With this, Section 1 of the Eighth Chapter gracefully concludes — shining a radiant light on the hidden, infinite glory within each heart.
Chandogya Upanishad—Chapter 8, Section 2: “The Self That Fulfills All Desires”
This section of the Upanishad describes the Supreme Self residing in the heart — a state in which, upon realization, all desires are fulfilled simply by the power of will. It gives a poetic glimpse into the spiritual sovereignty and divine freedom of a realized being.
Mantra 8.2.1
Sanskrit:
यदा ह वै ज्ञायतेऽत्मैति ह एव सर्वं भवति
तं ह स्म ह वै तदात्मानं विदित्वा ब्रह्मणा पश्यति
सर्वाणि च कामान् समश्नुते
Translation:
When one comes to know the Self, one becomes all.
The knower of the Self, having realized the Self, beholds all in the Self,
and enjoys all desires in the Self alone.
Analysis: This mantra reveals that realization of the Self results in the experience of total oneness. The boundaries between subject and object dissolve. The realized soul enjoys all desires not through external pursuit, but through inner fulfillment.
Mantra 8.2.2
Sanskrit:
यदि पितॄन्पश्येत इच्छेत्, पितॄणां संनिधिं करोति
यदि मातॄन्पश्येत इच्छेत्, मातॄणां संनिधिं करोति
Translation:
If he desires to see his forefathers, by his mere will they appear to him.
If he desires to see his mothers, by his will they come into his presence.
Analysis: In the state of Self-realization, will becomes omnipotent. The barriers between this world and the other dissolve. The realized one does not “go” to other realms — they manifest instantly.
Mantra 8.2.3
Sanskrit:
यदि भ्रातॄन्, यदि भगिनीः, यदि मित्राणि, यदि गान्धर्वान्, यदि देवतान् पश्येत इच्छेत् —
तेषां संनिधिं करोति।
Translation:
If he wishes to see his brothers, sisters, friends, celestial beings, or deities —
they manifest before him instantly.
Analysis: Desires, in their purest form, are not denied but instantly fulfilled. The Self, being non-different from Brahman, holds all within. Desires become spontaneous manifestations, not cravings.
Mantra 8.2.4
Sanskrit:
यदि गन्धं पश्येत इच्छेत्, यदि रसं पश्येत इच्छेत्
ते एवान्नरसं, गन्धान् संनिधिं करोति
Translation:
If he desires to experience fragrances or tastes, they appear instantly.
He manifests all sensory delights by will.
Analysis: Sensory pleasures, once dependent on objects, now arise from within. This is not indulgence but transcendence — where joy is no longer dependent on external stimuli.
Mantra 8.2.5
Sanskrit:
यदि स्त्रियम् पश्येत इच्छेत्, तस्य संनिधिं करोति।
Translation:
If he desires to experience the company of a woman, she appears before him.
Analysis: Here, too, the Upanishad shows that the realized Self has dominion over the world of desires. The key idea is not about indulgence but about the complete mastery over desire — where desire no longer controls the person.
Mantra 8.2.6
Sanskrit:
यदि रथान् पश्येत इच्छेत्, रथानां संनिधिं करोति
यदि वाहनान् इच्छेत्, तेषां संनिधिं करोति
Translation:
If he wishes to see chariots or vehicles, they appear.
Whatever he desires for movement or luxury manifests instantly.
Analysis: All material expressions of movement, speed, or luxury arise effortlessly in the inner world of realization. The Self is the source of all manifestation.
Mantra 8.2.7
Sanskrit:
यदि लोकेषु चरेत इच्छेत्, लोकानां संनिधिं करोति
Translation:
If he desires to roam in various worlds, he can — they manifest instantly for him.
Analysis: The physical boundaries of worlds or realms dissolve. Time and space are transcended. For the realized being, all worlds are here and now.
Mantra 8.2.8
Sanskrit:
यथाकामं रूपं कुरुते, यथाकामं चरति,
एष आत्मा — आत्मनः कामयेते
Translation:
He assumes whatever form he desires, and moves wherever he wishes.
This is the Self — the fulfillment of all desires.
Analysis: This is the climax — the Self is the origin, support, and fulfillment of all. The realized one is no longer bound by body, identity, or karma. He is free.
Mantra 8.2.9
Sanskrit:
स एष आत्मा — अनन्तः, अपहतपाप्मा, विजरो विमृत्युः
विशोको विजिघत्सोऽपिपासः, सत्यकामः, सत्यसङ्कल्पः
Translation:
This Self is infinite, free from sin, ageless, deathless,
beyond sorrow, hunger, and thirst. Its will is always truthful. Its desire always fulfilled.
Analysis: Here the Upanishad directly defines the qualities of the Self—it is pure, eternal, beyond all human limitations, and eternally fulfilled. There is no lack in the Self.
Mantra 8.2.10
Sanskrit:
तं ह वै तत्पश्यन् ब्राह्मणा आहुः —
आत्मनं चेद्विजानीयात्, अयमस्मीति
स किं प्रियेण कस्यानर्थं कामयेत्
Translation:
The knowers of Brahman declare:
“If one realizes the Self as ‘I am this’, what can he desire?
What can he lack or grieve for in this world?”
Analysis: This is the concluding vision. Realization brings perfect fulfillment. There is nothing else to desire, because all things are known to be the Self. This is the state of absolute peace and inner sovereignty.
Final Summary: The Heart of Realization
In this section, the Upanishad conveys the highest human possibility:
When the Self is realized as Brahman, the entire universe becomes one’s own.
Desires no longer enslave — they dissolve into fulfillment.
The realized being lives as a radiant, boundless, desireless Self.
The above 10 mantras in this section emphasize on the subject that everything we can think of, – relatives, friends, fathers, mothers, husbands, wives, good things, great things, pleasant things, objects of desire present in this world or in the other world -whatever they be, they do not take time to manifest themselves if the will is exercised in the proper manner. That means the will has to be in tune with the law of Atman. All such desires in our hearts are really distorted forms of the manifestation of Consciousness in some way or the other. There is some defect in the movement of Consciousness when it gets lodged in the body of an individual and imagines that it is somehow or other limited to the extent of that body alone. This type of imagination is falsehood which gets mixed-up with truth and then it becomes difficult for us to know the Reality, The Truth, the Infinite.
Chandogya Upanishad 8.3: The Space Within the Heart
Essence: Desires Are True But Veiled by Falsehood
In this profound section, the Upanishad guides us inward—to the very core of our being—where all desires reside in their truest form. The rishis declare that the heart-space (hṛdayākāśa) is not mere imagination but the gateway to Brahman itself.
Mantra 8.3.1—Desires Are True, But Covered by Falsehood
Sanskrit Verse:
त इमे सत्याः कामा अनृतापिधानाः।
तेषां सत्यानाꣳ सतामनृतमपिधानं।
यो यो ह्यस्येतः प्रैति, न तमिह दर्शनाय लभते॥
Translation:
“These desires are indeed true, but they are covered by falsehood. The truth of those real desires is veiled by unreality. For whoever departs from here does not appear again for our vision.”
Insight:
This mantra reveals a subtle truth: desires are not inherently false—they are satya, rooted in reality. Yet they become covered by false ideas, appearances, and limited understanding. The world of name and form creates a veil over the deeper unity of all existence. What appears as loss or separation (as in death) is merely a distortion caused by ignorance.
Mantra 8.3.2—The Hidden Gold Within
Sanskrit Verse:
अथ ये चास्येह जीवा ये च प्रेता यच्चान्यदिच्छन्न
लभते, सर्वं तदत्र गत्वा विन्दते।
अत्र ह्यस्यैते सत्याः कामा अनृतापिधानाः।
तद्यथापि हिरण्यनिधिं निहितमक्षेत्रज्ञा
उपर्युपरि सञ्चरन्तो न विन्देयुः।
एवमेवेमाः सर्वाः प्रजा अहर्हर्गच्छन्त्येतं ब्रह्मलोकं
न विन्दन्त्यनृतेन हि प्रत्यूढाः॥
Translation:
“Those living and departed, and all that one longs for but cannot obtain—all this is found by entering the heart. There, the true desires lie covered by falsehood. It is like a treasure of gold hidden underground; the unknowing pass over it again and again but never discover it. So too, beings come and go daily into Brahmaloka but know it not, for they are covered by ignorance.”
Insight:
The Upanishad uses a vivid metaphor: just as people unaware of hidden gold tread over it without gain, we too miss the divine presence within. Every being enters Brahmaloka daily during deep sleep, but due to anṛta (untruth), we fail to perceive it. The Self, our true nature, holds the key to fulfilling all desires—not outwardly, but by turning inward.
Philosophical Essence of Section 8.3:
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Desires are not obstacles — they point toward Satya (truth), if rightly understood.
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Falsehood (Anṛta) represents our mistaken sense of separation, loss, and limitation.
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Brahmaloka, the realm of truth and bliss, is not in the sky but within the heart.
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Deep sleep (Suṣupti) is an unconscious glimpse of unity with Brahman — if we awaken to it through knowledge, it becomes liberation (mokṣha).
Reflection for Seekers:
What you are searching for in the outer world — love, unity, immortality — is already present within you. The space in your heart is not a poetic idea; it is the seat of the Infinite.
To realize this is to uncover the hidden gold — the eternal truth veiled by illusion.
A wise man sees everything in the Self.
Inside the heart is the whole Universe. When we have susupti, dreamless sleep, we are then one with Brahman and one with the whole world. We are not conscious of it, because of our ignorance.
In this section the Upanishad is teaching us to understand the truth that those people who have passed on from this world, those who are born, those who are not yet born, those who have come, and those who have gone to other worlds are in our own hearts. They are not outside somewhere. We carry them in our own hearts, in the space of our consciousness. It has been said earlier that whatever is outside is also inside.
Course after Death
Chandogya Upanishad—Section 8.4: Life Beyond (Three Mantras)
Mantra 1—The Self as a Bridge Beyond Suffering
Sanskrit:
एष सेतु विदारण एषां लोकानां असंभेदाय।
तं नातीतरत्यहोरात्राणि न जरा न मृत्युः न शोकः न पुण्यमेव नापुण्यमेव।
सर्वाणि ह्येतानि पापमानि विरुध्यन्ते तमेतं वेद स पाप्मना न लिप्यते।
Translation:
This Self is the bridge, the barrier that keeps the worlds from colliding. Neither day nor night crosses it, nor age, death, sorrow, good, nor evil. All sin turns away from Him. He who knows this Self is untouched by evil.
Vedantic Insight:
The Atman is the ultimate reality beyond dualities. It is untouched by the flux of time and the pairs of opposites (pleasure and pain, good and evil). The bridge metaphor points to Atman as the unchanging substratum connecting all states of consciousness and realms of existence—waking, dreaming, and deep sleep. Atman is beyond karma and unaffected by its fruits.
Mantra 2—Crossing into Brahmaloka: The Realm of Truth
Sanskrit:
एष सेतु विदारण एषां लोकानामसंधारणाय।
स एतं सेतुमतीत्य, यदि चक्षुरस्ति पश्यति, यदि जिह्वास्ति रसयति, यदि श्रोत्रमस्ति शृणोति, यदि मनस्ति ध्यायति, यदि हस्तावस्ति गृह्णाति, यदि पादावस्ति गच्छति।
तस्मै स वै लोकः प्रकाशते नास्य कर्म लिप्यते।
Translation:
This Self is the bridge. When one crosses that bridge, if blind, he sees; if sick, he becomes well; if unhappy, he becomes happy. Even if it is night, it becomes day—for Brahmaloka is ever-luminous.
Vedantic Insight:
Brahmaloka is not a physical place but the state of self-realization. It is the realization of Brahman, the inner light that dispels darkness (ignorance). When the jiva crosses the “bridge”—i.e., overcomes body identification—one becomes whole. All afflictions dissolve in the vision of Truth.
Mantra 3—The Freedom of the Self-Realized
Sanskrit:
तेषां वै तं सेतुमतीतानां कामचारिणां स्यात् सर्वेषु लोकेषु कामचारिणां स्यात्।
Translation:
For those who have crossed the bridge and become masters of themselves, they can move freely in all worlds as they please.
Vedantic Insight:
Self-mastery through Brahmacharya (disciplined living) leads to complete freedom (moksha). The realized ones are no longer bound by the limitations of time, space, or body. Their will becomes divine. They live in all worlds freely, for they are one with Brahman.
Section 8.5: The Power of Brahmacharya (Four Mantras)
Mantra 1—Brahmacharya as Yajna and Worship
Sanskrit:
यद्वा अपि एष यज्ञो ब्रह्मचर्यमेव तद्वा एषैष यजुश्च ब्रह्मचर्यमेवैष उपासितव्यः।
Translation:
What is called yajna (sacrifice) is indeed Brahmacharya. What is called worship (ista) is Brahmacharya.
Vedantic Insight:
True sacrifice is not external rituals but the inner discipline of Brahmacharya. To live in harmony with Brahman, one must regulate the senses and focus inwardly. Worship becomes authentic only when it aligns with self-restraint and inner purification.
Mantra 2—Sattarayana and Silence as Forms of Brahmacharya
Sanskrit:
सत्त्रायणमिति यद्ब्रह्मचर्यमेव तत्, मौनमिति यद्ब्रह्मचर्यमेव तत्।
Translation:
What is called Sattarayana (a prolonged sacrifice) is Brahmacharya; what is called silence (mauna) is also Brahmacharya.
Vedantic Insight:
Long-duration rituals and vows of silence symbolize the deeper pursuit of truth through restraint. Silence is not mere absence of speech but inner quietude, where the seeker listens to the Self. Brahmacharya becomes the supreme discipline that leads to Atma-jnana.
Mantra 3—Fasting and Life in the Forest as Spiritual Paths
Sanskrit:
अनशाकायनमिति यद्ब्रह्मचर्यमेव तत्, अरण्यायनमिति यद्ब्रह्मचर्यमेव तत्।
Translation:
What is called fasting (anasakayana) is Brahmacharya. What is called forest-dwelling (aranyayana) is Brahmacharya.
Vedantic Insight:
Fasting and solitude symbolize detachment. The forest life (vanaprastha) represents turning away from the world to dwell in contemplation. Fasting from worldly pleasures, both mentally and physically, purifies the seeker. Brahmacharya here points to a state of mind—not just celibacy but an unwavering commitment to Brahman.
Self stays in the heart.
Mantra 3: Self stays in the heart; heart, a word that seems to say, Here it is. Whoever knows this daily enjoys the kingdom of Heaven.
Where the Self resides? It is within. Normally people think GOD is above in sky or in temple or somewhere beyond[ In English word, GOD is known as Supreme to the people who believes in GOD]. But the truth is this that in reality, GOD is in our own heart. The heart is the seat of Self-realization. One who knows that, goes daily to the heavenly world in the deep sleep (dreamless sleep). In deep sleep he is with Brahman. that means we go into our own Self. We become one with the Self. This we have seen in Mandukya Upanishad.
Mantra 4—The Self Joins the Flame of Pure Consciousness
Sanskrit (corrected):
यो वै तं ब्रह्मचर्येणानुविद्य तस्माल्लोकात्संप्रति स एनं ब्रह्मलोकं नीयते।
तं एतेनैव ज्योतिषा आत्मानं संधत्ते।
स आत्मा तदामृतं भयमेतत् ब्रह्मेत्युपासीत।
Translation:
A wise man, through Brahmacharya and realization, leaves this world and attains Brahmaloka. There he merges with the flame—his own essential light. That light is the Self, the fearless, the immortal—Brahman. Meditate on this Self as Brahman, the fearless, the immortal.
Vedantic Insight:
The flame symbolizes the consciousness that illumines all experience. Merging with it means realizing the Self beyond the body-mind complex. As the Mandukya Upanishad teaches, our waking state is clouded by desires that bind us to the material world. Through disciplined living and inner purity, one transcends these limitations. Fearlessness comes from realizing that we are not the body but the ever-luminous, ever-free Atman.
Reflection:
“Tamaso mā jyotir gamaya” – Lead us from darkness to light.
This is not merely symbolic; it is the actual journey of the soul—from ignorance (avidya) to the highest knowledge (vidya), from bondage to liberation.
Mantra 5—The Secret of Heaven in Daily Life
Sanskrit:
सा त्याया इति ब्रह्मेत्युपासीत, स इत्यमृतं, त्यं मर्त्यं, य इमं चामुं च लोकं संधत्ते।
तदेतद्ब्राह्मणाः पश्यन्ति, सन्दध्यास्तमिति, सन्दध्यास्तमिति—ह वा इमे वै तस्मिन्स्वप्नान्ते यथेदं
न विजानाति सन्दध्यास्तमिति।
Translation:
What connects the mortal and the immortal is called Satya (Truth). ‘Sa’ represents the immortal, ‘ti’ the mortal, and ‘yam’ is that which connects both. He who knows this enjoys union with Brahman—he enjoys Heaven daily.
Vedantic Insight:
This mantra decodes the sacred syllable Satyam (truth) into a mystical representation:
-
Sa—the immortal aspect (Brahman)
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Ti—the mortal (individual being)
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Yam—the binding force between the two (consciousness)
The mantra teaches that the one who realizes this connection attains joy not only after death but even here and now—especially in deep sleep (sushupti), where individuality merges with universal consciousness. The “Heaven” spoken of is the peaceful, blissful state beyond all duality, experienced each night unknowingly and to be realized consciously through knowledge.
Essence of Section 8.5
These five mantras elevate Brahmacharya from a mere vow of celibacy to the very path of Self-realization. The section closes by affirming that
-
The Self is the light we seek.
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Heaven is not elsewhere but accessed through knowledge.
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And daily life, rightly lived, is already a movement toward Brahman.
“Let one meditate on the Self as the fearless, immortal Brahman.” – Chandogya Upanishad 8.5.4
Conclusion: The Secret of the Heart-Space
This sacred chapter of the Chandogya Upanishad unveils a sublime vision of reality through the metaphor of the “City of Brahman”—the human body. Within this city lies a palace shaped like a lotus, the spiritual heart (hridaya), and deep within that heart is a subtle space (dahara ākāśa)—small in appearance but infinite in essence. This space is not physical but metaphysical. It is the abode of Brahman, the Absolute, the Self (Atman).
“In that space lies all that exists—heaven, earth, the sun, the moon, lightning, and the stars—whatever is within and whatever is beyond.”
(Chandogya Upanishad 8.1.3)
What Is Contained in This Heart Space?
Every being, every desire, and every realm of existence (loka) is contained within this innermost chamber. It is not a container in the physical sense but a field of consciousness that reflects the non-dual truth: all things are one in Brahman. That which seems external is actually internal—subjective, not objective.
But a question arises: What remains when old age comes? When does the body weaken and die?
The Upanishad answers with resolute clarity:
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That inner space does not decay when the body decays.
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It does not perish when the body perishes.
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It is beyond time and space, untouched by good or evil, pleasure or pain.
The Supreme Revelation
What lies in the heart is Brahman Itself—the Self (Atman), which is
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Deathless
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Sinless
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Beyond sorrow
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Free from hunger and thirst
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The eternal witness of all desires
This is not an abstract metaphysical idea but the innermost truth of our being. The heart, in Sanskrit hṛd, is sometimes interpreted as “hṛdi ayam”—”Here (hṛd) it (ayam) is.” The Self is not elsewhere; it is here, within you.
“He who knows this Self, the space within the heart, attains all worlds and fulfills all desires.”
(Chandogya Upanishad 8.1.6)
Heaven Here and Now
A profound secret is revealed: one does not have to wait until death to experience Brahmaloka, the realm of Brahman. Every day, during deep dreamless sleep (suṣupti), the individual Self merges into Brahman unconsciously. The sage, however, consciously abides in That, even while living. This is jivanmukti—liberation while still in the body.
“Satyam, śivam, sundaram”—That which is True, Auspicious, and Beautiful—resides in the Heart.
Final Reflection for the Seeker
“Brahma Vidya, the supreme knowledge of the Self, is the central teaching of the Chandogya Upanishad.”
The Upanishad gently yet powerfully shifts our gaze inward:
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Look not outward for fulfillment.
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Look within, where the light of consciousness shines eternally.
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There lies your immortal Self, untouched by birth and death.
To meditate on this Self is to live in Brahman.
To realize this truth is to be free—here and now.
The link for reading text in Sanskrit is here: – Chandogya Upanishad
Recommended readings:
- Back to the Truth: 5000 years of ADVAITA by Dennis Waite.**
- THE TEN PRINCIPAL UPANISHADS: Translated by Shree Purohit Swami and Yeats
- Brahma Sutra Bhasya of Sankaracharya: Translated by Swami Gambhirananda.**
- Commentary on the ChAndogya Upanishad by Swami Krishnananda.
- Chandogya Upanishad: By Swami GuruBhaktananda.
- EIGHT UPANISADS—VOL. 1 with commentary by Sankaracharya, translated by SWAMI GAMBHIRANANDA.
- THE TAITTIRIYA UPANISHAD: SHIKSHAVALLI-ANANDAVALLI-BHRIGUVALLI with Sri Shankara’s Commentary by Sri Swami Satchidanandera Saraswati.
- A-U-M Awakening to Reality: By Dennis Waite***
- Panchadasi: Swami Vidyaranya:
- Information is available on the internet.
It is my sincere request to the esteemed readers to share their opinions or queries, if any. Suggestions to make the site attractive will be incredibly helpful for me. Readers are requested to read all the posts to have continuity of the topic from the beginning. My mail ID is: arun7663@gmail.com
I read it today and I must say it was very knowledgeable and interesting. I liked this “Though old age comes to the body, the lotus of the heart does not grow old. When body dies, it does not die. Brahman exists there. He is untouched by any deed. Does not suffer ageing, free from hunger, grief, and thirst. His desires are right desires, and his desires are fulfilled”.
If we can incorporate this knowledge in our life then no one will be fearful of death. There will be a calm inside out. No stress in life and the life will be a peaceful and happy journey throughout.
Thank you so much for sharing your wisdom with everyone.😊😊
Thank you so much Anita ji for your comments. Indeed Upanishads teach us the core knowledge. Knowing that Truth one becomes free from all miseries. Very happy that you have liked the post. Please share with your friends if you wish. This knowledge of Vedanta philosophy should reach to all. Regards 😊
😌🙏
Thank you, Arun, for such an illuminating post. I will copy some of the beautiful teachings into my book of quotes.
Joanna
Thank you so much Joanna for your comments. I am inspired.
Teachings are universal. Irrespective of time and space.
So whatever you feel good for mankind, please do. Our ultimate goal is to have eternal peace through knowledge.
Regards 😊🙏
Please share if you like.😊🙏
You are more than welcome.
Joanna
😊🙏
Sir, While reading your posts made me to recollect this phrase ‘The kingdom of god is within you’ by Leo Tolstoy. Creation is the manifestation of what was in an unmanifest condition. When the unmanifest starts manifesting, what manifests first is the subtle universe and then from that comes the gross universe. Because the subtle universe is born before the gross and at every level Brahman inheres in the creation, it is said that the Lord is (as if) born at the beginning of the jagat as Hiraṇyagarbha and hence is Jagadādija. Also, reducing the lord to any particular form is to limit him. Forms are helpful for contemplation and upaasana only. There is no one god, one is subject to fraction. There is only god, all that is here is only god. Thank you for enlightening about this Vedanta concepts. Be safe and take care.
Really It is true what is said by Leo Tolstoy ‘The kingdom of god is within you’. We must feel that every moment.
You have elaborated it nicely. You know the subject. Causal–subtle—gross and again Causal–subtle—gross and it is repeating. Everything is God’s expression.
After a long time I could see your comments. I am very happy for that. Without your elaboration, my post is not complete. Thats what I feel.
Take care.
Best wishes.🙏😊
I have been waiting for this. It touches the heart 💕 . Heart does not grow old. It is the place where Brahman lives. A heart for this blog❤. It’s the Upanishad that teaches what lies inside that little space called heart. Now, I get to know 🙂 that everything lies inside this little space.
Thank you so much Preet for your wonderful comments. You have understood what lies inside the heart ❤️. It is your original identity that which remains unchanged in any situation, that resides inside the heart ❤️.
Next part will be released tomorrow.
Read and enjoy 😊
Stay blessed always 😊🙏
Okey, I will definitely read that one too. 😊
Thank you so much Preeti.
Have a blissful time.😊☺️
I am posing question, as that of an atheist, for that seems a rising era in the populace, in terms of misinterpreting and misunderstanding.
Mantra-3 : “… everything is in the heart”.
Here, they put forward the biological fact that medical students do not see a lotus, certainly not universe, inside any of the cardiac compartments.
I suppose, in such cases, as you have been thinking once, more than English, an Indian language would express the idea apropos, as closest to Sanskrit.
It is all symbolic.
Who has doubt may visit the website
heartmath.org
https://www.heartmath.org/
They may read the contents.
Philosophy has it’s own language.
Science has it’s own language.
Certainly lotus is not there.
But lotus has some properties.
প্রদ্ম পাতায় শিশির বিন্দু।
Some concepts. Left to the readers.
😊🙏🙏
Thank you so much for the reference link. 🙏
Perhaps, this can allay the smoulder of smudgy contempt in their own “hearts” before becoming a blaze of brazen insolence.
Perhaps
☺️🙏
Just beauti-full, Arun! I recently read the Upanishads and felt there was nothing left to read. All the wisdom that we need is in them, in the simplest and most beautiful words. Your blog is a wonderful celebration of that wisdom. 😊🙏
Thank you so much for your comments ☺️
This post has been revised with added insights and refinements to help readers engage more deeply with the essence of Brahma Vidya. I invite you to read the updated version and share your reflections in the comments.
Warm regards,
Arun
Impressive work