Category: Upanishad

What is it that I could do more of?

What could you do more of?

As I continue on my path of self-improvement, I often find myself thinking about key factors that might have boosted my success and development had I included them sooner in my life. The five main topics I explore are letting go of possessiveness, getting over the fear of failure, engaging in proactive inactivity, harnessing the power of the subconscious mind, and embracing profound philosophical understanding, all of which are informed by my personal experiences. My hope is that the insights gained through this introspection will be useful to those who are also on a path toward greater personal and professional fulfilment.

1. Shedding Possessiveness: My Personal Findings:

In my personal journey, I’ve come to understand that possessiveness, frequently rooted in attachment and fear, holds the potential to be a significant hindrance to personal growth. My experiences have shown that an early liberation from this binding emotion can be transformative, unlocking doors to heightened creativity, enhanced collaboration, and unprecedented personal development.

The negative effects of desires for name, fame, pride, and possessiveness became apparent in their ability to impede positive academic growth. This insight prompted a shift in focus towards a more expansive and enriching life, transcending the limitations imposed by the grasping nature of possessiveness.

2. Overcoming the Fear of Failure and Bullying: A Personal Journey:

Fear of failure is widespread and may paralyze if unchecked. In my own path, this dread, frequently compounded by bullying, has annihilated my confidence and inner strength.

My improvement has come from accepting failure as part of learning. This paradigm change has helped me see setbacks as opportunities for personal and intellectual growth. This viewpoint also helped me overcome bullying’s negative consequences on my self-esteem and agency.

I handle life’s obstacles by seeing failure as a chance to learn and become resilient. By viewing failure as a learning opportunity, I have cultivated both my economical and intellectual skills. This attitude change has increased my ability to succeed and given my path fresh energy, allowing me to overcome obstacles.

Managing my bullying fear has also been crucial to my growth. Knowing that bullying may lower self-esteem has enabled me to seek help, build resilience, and adopt proactive self-preservation measures. Through this process, I have learnt that facing and conquering failure and bullying fears is a sign of personal strength and a step toward overall growth and well-being.

4. How I Discovered to Use My Subconscious Mind’s Latent Potential:

Through my own quest for self-improvement, I have come to recognize the vast latent potential of the subconscious mind. This pool of unrealized potential is the doorway to extraordinary originality, resourcefulness, and introspection. When I think back on my own life, I realize that if I had been exposed to methods for awakening and channelling this dormant potential sooner, it may have made a huge difference. 

In my blogs under “My Journey through Books,” I describe how reading Joseph Murphy’s seminal work “The Power of Your Subconscious Mind” was a watershed experience. This enlightening tome revealed the transformational power of the subconscious mind and the systems that regulate it. As a result, I began engaging in activities like meditation, positive affirmations, and visualizing a successful outcome.

5. A Search for Insightful Understanding:

Teachings like those contained in the Upanishads, which contain deep wisdom, provide a transforming framework for making sense of the complex web of existence. When I consider my own journey, I understand that if I had accepted such profound wisdom earlier, say in my mid-thirties or perhaps sooner, it would have given my life direction and clarity.

It wasn’t until I explored the depths of quantum physics and Non-Duality (Advaita Vedanta) that I realized the ultimate reality, discovered who I really am, and jumped to a whole new level of comprehension. In retrospect, I see that this insight may have been understood sooner, but I was too blinded by my own ignorance to see it at the time. Surprisingly, the path, access to experienced mentors, and institutions were all made available to me, but I let the grip of possessiveness derail me.

Patanjali’s Yoga sutras have the illuminative ability to lead one to a place of inner calm and profound fulfilment by teaching the concepts of justice and non-dual thought, which are essential aspects of Advaita Vedanta. When practiced, these guidelines illuminate the way to inner growth and a more meaningful relationship to the cosmos.

Conclusion:

Finding Balance on the Road to Holistic Development: –

As I look on my own personal development thus far, I am keenly aware of the immense difference these five factors could have made in my progress had I embraced them earlier. These are the stepping stones that would have expedited my journey toward holistic growth far earlier: letting go of possessiveness, accepting failure, practicing thoughtful inactivity, engaging the power of the subconscious mind, and immersing oneself in profound wisdom.

Looking back, I realize that my experience might have been much more rewarding if I had learned how to properly counteract bullying. The fight against bullies continues, but it is now armed with facts, strengthened by meditation, and backed by prayers. With this strategy, I feel prepared to face these obstacles head-on.

When viewed through a Vedantic lens, this path to self-awareness is consistent with Advaita Vedanta’s central tenet that the self is the ultimate reality, unbounded by form or content. Adopting these life-altering principles not only helps the adoptee, but also has a ripple effect on those around them. As I continue on my path toward enlightenment, transcendence, and the ultimate actualization of my complete potential, I find new meaning in the teachings of Vedanta.

These musings are more than simply an exercise in introspection; they serve as a guidepost on the path to growth and perfection. Using these discoveries proactively, people may launch themselves on a path of development, breaking through self-imposed barriers to become their best selves. The pursuit of wholeness is timeless, as it is an ongoing adventure into the boundless potential that lies inside each of us.

My most important & recent works are listed below: –

Best piece of advice I have ever received.

 

From Turmoil to Triumph: The Alchemy of Life’s Trials

Are you holding a grudge? About?

What daily habit do you do that improves your quality of life?

Best piece of advice I have ever received.

Principles of Learning & Teaching-Vedic Culture:

Section-9 of Sheeksha Valli, the first part of Taittiriya Upanishad imparts invaluable wisdom on leading a balanced and virtuous life. It encourages individuals to fulfil their duties, seek knowledge, practice virtues, and contribute positively to their families and society. The teachings emphasize that truthfulness, austerity, and the pursuit of knowledge are essential aspects of a meaningful and spiritually fulfilling life.

In this section, the Upanishad conveys: “The Integral Principles of Vedic Education and Propagation.”

  1. Do your duty; learn and teach.
  2. Speak truth; learn and teach.
  3. Meditate; learn and teach.
  4. Control sense; learn and teach.
  5. Control mind; learn and teach.
  6. Kindle fire; learn and teach.
  7. Feed fire; learn and teach.
  8. Be hospitable; learn and teach.
  9. Be humane; learn and teach.
  10. Serve the family; learn and teach.
  11. Procreate; learn and teach.
  12. Educate your children; learn and teach.

Essence of the lines: 1 to 5 is for: ” Brahmacharya Ashrama”(Students).

Essence of the lines: 6 to 9 is for: ” Grihastha Ashrama” (House Holders).

Essence of the lines: 10 to 12 is for: ” Vanaprastha Ashrama” (who are nearing retirement).

Learning and instructing are fundamental to each of the aforementioned 12 duties. The practitioner of any of the above is obligated to learn about it and pass on it with others. He should learn as much as possible to help him achieve his goal of liberation, and he should teach others so that this knowledge will remain in the public domain forever.

Note to the Readers:

Studying and propagating knowledge stand as the bedrock of our mission. Through dedicated study, we empower ourselves with wisdom, enabling us to serve society with greater insight and purpose. Propagation extends this knowledge, reaching wider circles and benefiting the collective. Together, these principles fortify our mission’s commitment to illuminate minds and contribute positively to society’s growth and well-being.

Unity in Diversity: Panchagni Vidya and Modern Science

Dear Readers, Welcome to a Journey of Enlightenment and Discovery, Where Ancient Wisdom Meets Modern Understanding.

The Panchagni Vidya:

The Panchagni Vidya, or the teaching of the five fires, is found in both the Chhandogya Upanishad and the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad, which are two of the major Upanishads in Hindu philosophy.

In the Chhandogya Upanishad (Chapter 5), and in the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad (Chapter 6, Second Brahman), the story involves King Pravahana Jivala imparting the Panchagni Vidya to Swetaketu. This teaching emphasizes the non-dual nature of reality and the interconnectedness of all beings. The metaphor of the five fires is used to illustrate the profound spiritual truths.

 The Upanishads aim to provide deep philosophical insights and spiritual guidance, and the Panchagni Vidya is a prime example of the profound teachings found within these ancient texts.

Swetaketu is asked by King Pravahana Jivala if he has studied the knowledge that leads to the understanding of the One from which all things originate and by knowing which, all things become known. Swetaketu thinks he knows everything; therefore, he answers in the positive. Instead, Pravahana Jivala gives Swetaketu a series of lessons on the self and the interdependence of all beings.

King Pravahana Jivala uses the metaphor of five fires to illustrate his teachings.

He asks Swetaketu to perform a series of rituals involving five fires to demonstrate the oneness of the individual self (Atman) with the universal Self (Brahman). Through this metaphor, he imparts the knowledge that just as different fires arise from the same source (wood), all individual beings arise from the same universal source (Brahman).

The Panchagni Vidya teaches the fundamental principle of Advaita Vedanta, which asserts the non-dual nature of reality, stating that the individual soul (Atman) is ultimately identical to the ultimate reality (Brahman).

Note: The word Vidya in Panchagni Vidya is to be understood as Upasana~ Meditation. Here Vidya does not mean Knowledge.

The Five Fires~ in the Panchagni Vidya are:

  • Heaven
  • Rain God
  • Earth
  • Male
  • Female

The Belief is that the five fires are given the five liquid oblations as follows:

  1. Faith to Heaven: Soma Raja is generated.
  2. Soma to Rain god: Rain is generated.
  3. Rains to Earth: Food is generated.
  4. Food to Man: Sperm is generated.
  5. Seminal fluid to Woman: Newborn emanated.

Here is the story of King Pravahana Jaivali and Svetaketu.

 Svetaketu was son of sage Uddalaka Aruni also known as Gautama too. Well educated and confident of his knowledge. There was a noble, highly learned king of Panchal, during the late Vedic period named Pravahana Jaivali. Svetaketu went to his court for sharing his knowledge in King’s court. The moment Svetaketu arrived at the court, the king received him with due respect and offered him requisite hospitality, being a Brahmin boy and well versed with Vedas and all branches of learning.
The king asked the boy: ” Are you well educated? Have you studied? Is your education complete? Has your father instructed you?”
The boy replied. “Yes, my education is complete, and I am well-read.” Then the King asked some questions. ” Naturally, you are a well informed and able to answer my questions. You are proficient in every branch of learning.” The boy affirmed. King then asked following five questions.

The first question asked by the King:

“Do you know where people go after they depart from this world? When people die, where do they go? Do you know the answer to this question, my dear boy?”
The boy replied, “I do not know. I am unable to answer.”

King then asked second question:

“Do you know wherefrom people come when they are reborn into this world?” The boy said, ” No, I do not know answer of this also”.

The Third Question:

” Have you any idea of the paths along which the Souls ascends, the paths being known as Devayana and Pitriyana? Do you know the difference between these two paths? Why is one distinct from the other?” The boy said, ” I do not know the answer to this question also.”

The Fourth question:

“Why is it that the yonder world is not filled with people and overflowing? Always, the world is able to contain people and it is never flooded with them. What is the reason for this?” The boy said, ” This also I do not know.”

The Fifth question:

” Do you know what are the five oblations that are offered and how the fifth oblation as liquid becomes a human being?”
“The boy said, this too I do not know.“
Then the King said, ” Why did you say that you are well read and well instructed? King said ” How is it possible that you are not able to answer even these questions. What made you think that you are well educated. What is that your father has taught, and you are not able to answer these?” Listening this from the King, boy realized that his education was incomplete, and his pride vanished. The boy realized for the first time that it was his wrong idea that he knew everything. Feeling disgraced, he returned home and took his father to task for not teaching this Vidya which could have helped him in answering the questions put by the king. But Sage Gautama himself was unaware of the answers. Therefore, sage Gautama went to the king Pravahana to learn the Vidya. King received with due respect and offered him many gifts. But the sage Gautama refused to accept gifts since he was interested only to be enlightened on the discourse which King mentioned to the boy Svetaketu. King then Commanded him, ” Stay for a long time.” Then King said, O Gautama, before you, this Vidya was never gone to Brahmanas: it is for this reason, that among all people, it was only with the Kshatriya.

Great king imparted the knowledge of the Panchagni-Vidya. The King explained five fires:

The First fire is svargaloka (Heaven):

The Sun is the fuel (sacrificial stick) of this Fire. The rays of the Sun are the smoke, while the day is the flame. The moon is the ember (red hot coal~चिंगारी). The stars are the sparks of this fire. When Agnihotra is performed, the jivas become Soma Raja(moon) and enter svargaloka.

The Second fire is Parjanya.

O Gautama! the god of rain is the sacrificial fire; air is its fuel; the cloud is the smoke. Lightning is the flame. The Thunderbolt is the charcoal. The roars of the fire are the sparks. Soma Raja (Jiva) is the oblation in this fire.

The Third fire is the Earth.

For this fire, the year is the sacrificial fire. Akasha (sky) is the smoke. The night is the flame. The directions are the live charcoals. The directions are the sparks. The oblation in this case is rain. When the rains reach the earth, food is grown.

The fourth is man himself.

His speech(vaak) is the sacrificial fire. His prana is smoke. His tongue is the flame. The eyes are the live charcoals, and his ears are the sparks. Here the oblation is food. From that food the seed of man is born.

The fifth fire is Woman.

The interconnection between man and woman is the live charcoal. The small pleasures are the sparks. The oblation is the seed of man and from this does a new-born emanate.

The particle physics of you 

Commentary:

The Jiva which has ascended to the Heavenly world by the virtue of good deeds descends on the exhaustion of that merit to the earth to take up another life, from heaven in the form of rains. There in the earth, the self enters a food grain growing on a plant and then enters the blood of the male who consumes that food grain and that turns into sperm. Finally, when the seminal fluid enters the female womb upon coitus, the Jiva also enters the womb along with it. In the womb it gets embodied.

**Following section describes the conception of Human being using metaphor of Sacrifice (Yajna~ meditation). The fifth offering mentioned here is the seed of man (Semen) that brings about conception at the end.

 The Ten months in mother’s womb:

Thus, after the fifth oblation, water becomes Purusha known as Man. The foetus lies within the mother’s womb, covered with membrane, for about nine or ten months, and then it is born. [**This is the answer to the fifth question asked by the King Pravahana]

When a person is born, he lives as long as he is destined to live. Then, when he dies as ordained, he is carried from here to the fire from which he came.

 Path of Devayana:

Those who know this (Panchagni vidya), and those who live in the forest, practicing austerities with faith- they go to the path of Devayana(the world of light) From the world of light they go to the world of day; from the world of day to the world of bright fortnight; from the world of bright fortnight to the six months when Sun moves northward [Uttarayana]; from there go to the Sun, from the Sun to the moon; and from the moon to lightning. There someone, not human, receives them and leads them to Brahmaloka. This path is Devayana (path of gods).

 On the other hand, those who live in the village and perform acts of public service, charity, and so on, attain the world of smoke. From there they go to the world of the night; from night they go to the world of the dark fortnight; and from the dark fortnight they go to the world of the six months when the Sun moves to the south. This means that they never attain the world of the year.

 From the six months of the southern solstice, they go to the world of the ancestors, from there they go to the sky. Then from the sky they go to the moon. This is King Soma. This is the food of the gods. The gods enjoy eating this food.

 Living in the world of the moon until the merit (the fruits of his work) is exhausted, he then returns to this world along the same path. First going to the sky, he then goes to air. Having become air, he next becomes smoke. Having become smoke, he then becomes mist. From mist they become a cloud, after which they pour forth as rain. Then they are born as food. To emerge from these is difficult, only if someone or other eats him as food and pours him out as semen can he be reborn. 

Those whose conduct on Earth has given pleasure, can hope to enter a pleasant womb; but those whose conduct has been foul can expect to enter a foul and stinking womb.

But those small and continually returning creatures (like flies and worms) are not to be found on either of these two paths: theirs is a third condition, ” Be born and die” That is why the world up there is not filled up, and that is why a man should carefully watch his actions. On this there is the following verse:

This completes the answers to the five questions.

A person who steals gold, or drinks liquor, or goes to bed with his master’s wife, or kills a Brahmin-these four are lost. Also lost is the fifth- one who keeps company with such people.

But he who knows the five fires remains pure even if he is in the company of these people. He who knows this is pure and innocent, and after death he goes to the world of the good and pure.

The Celestial Region, the Atmosphere, the Earth, Man and Woman- These are the five stages of the Fire which becomes the object of meditation known as the Panchagni Vidya.

By the interconnection, combination and harmonious adjustment of the structure of these five levels of manifestation, birth takes place. This symbiology of Birth is applicable for all organisms in the world. This is theory of manifestation. Every event is Universal event, even the birth of a human. Every birth is to be considered in the light of Panchagni Vidya.

The whole point of this description in the context of the Panchagni Vidya is to describe us how the event of Births happens? What are the stages of the descent of the soul into the physical embodiment? It has to be understood through philosophical point of view. The point made out is that higher realms are activated by the consequences produced by our actions, in turn which become causes of our descent.

Two paths are laid before the soul after death. One is Devayana, the Northern path. It is for those who sought Wisdom. The other is Southern Path~ Pitriyana.

A Single autonomous Process:

Universe and its various constituents are only parts of it, internally connected. The whole universal manifestation is a single process, and it is a continuous process. The process of Births and Deaths are to be explained from this point of view, where all phenomenal experiences are part of this single autonomous process and are connected to ultimate cause. There is some law which works in some particular manner on account of which we are compelled to follow this course of repeated cycle of Births and Deaths, known as transmigration.

The whole universe is our father; the entire universe is our mother:

There are various stages of manifestation. How the birth of an individual takes place, how a child is born? For that, the underlying philosophy or science to be understood. What we the common people know that child is born from womb of the mother. That is true. But the process of birth takes place throughout the cosmos. All the governing forces of nature (of the Universe) are active in the production of a single child.
The whole cosmos is behind the scenes. The Universe is the parent of the little baby. That is the ultimate cause. It has connection with cause of all causes (Causal), by a chain of causal connections.

When the secret is known, no one will say, ” It is my son or my daughter.” It is neither yours neither mine. It belongs to that from where it has come.

It has come from the cells of this Universe. It has not come automatically in the seminal essence of the father or the womb of the mother. A system works here with a process since primordial time. It is the quintessence of every particle of the whole of Nature.
That is why we say:

“Brahmanda is in the Pindanda” ~ The macrocosm is in the microcosm.

Conclusion:

The Panchagni-Vidya is a meditation [UPASANA], —it is not an outward ritualistic sacrifice; it is a contemplation by the mind in which it harnesses every aspect of its force for the purpose of envisaging the reality.
Existence itself is regulated by the presence of the sun. The sun is the cause of life on earth. But who is the cause of the sun? The sun is also an effect of certain factors, —we may call them astronomical. That vibration is precedent and anterior to what we call the manifestation of even the causal condition of this world. Prior to all this, something else must be there, and prior to that, again, another thing, and so on, so that even our insignificant life in this world, in this physical body, can be said to be completely controlled by factors which are transcendent, beyond the sun and the moon and the stars, and where we go in this manner of tracing our cause back, we cannot know. This is the point driven home into the mind of Gautama by Pravahana Jaivali in the context of the explanation of the Panchagni-Vidya.

Connected Universe:

There is a mutual dependence between the outer world and the inner world of the individual. Our thoughts influence the atmosphere. We must realize that thoughts are vibrations, and it is nonlocal. These vibrations are not isolated activity inside our brain. The vibrations emanate like an aura to certain distance from the body of a person. The distance depends upon the intensity of the intensity of the aura (good vibes~ harmonious thoughts.) Therefore, cumulative effect of the vibrations produced by all the individuals can bring very good result in that environment in return.

Readers are requested to study further on the following topics/websites.

2. We are influenced by the environment around us. EPIGENETICS a new subject.
There is a cycle, as it were, a wheel rotating in the form of give-and-take between the gods in the heaven and the human beings here. We give something and we are given back something. Nature gives us what we give to it in the form of our own deeds in this world. We do not get what we do not deserve, and we cannot get, also, what we have not given actually. What we have given, what we have deserved, what we have parted with in the form of a sacrifice, that is given back to us, with compound interest sometimes, according to the law of Nature. On account of this cyclic activity of Nature, in which the individuals get involved through their actions, there is rainfall. So, we can imagine how rains occur.

Recommended readings:

  1. Back to the Truth: 5000 years of ADVAITA by Dennis Waite. **
  2. THE TEN PRINCIPAL UPANISHADS: Translated by Shree Purohit** Swami and W.B.Yeats
  3. Brahma Sutra Bhasya of Sankaracharya: Translated by Swami Gambhirananda.**
  4. Commentary of ChAndogya Upanishad: By Swami Krishnananda.
  5. ChAndogya Upanishad: By Swami GuruBhaktananda.
  6. EIGHT UPANISADS -VOL-1 with commentary of Sankaracharya, Translated by SWAMI GAMBHIRANANDA.
  7. The Brihadaranyaka Upanishad: by Swami Madhabananda.
  8. THE TAITTIRIYA UPANISHAD: SHIKSHAVALLI-ANANDAVALLI-BHRIGUVALLI with Sri Shankara’s Commentary by Sri Swami Satchidanandera Saraswati.
  9. A-U-M Awakening to Reality: By Dennis Waite***
  10. Panchadasi: Swami Vidyaranya:
  11. Information available on internet.

Exploring the Absolute: A Journey through Science, Philosophy, and Ancient Wisdom.

I’m happy to say that these four books have taught me a lot about the “Absolute”. I think they illuminate science, philosophy, and spirituality. Modern physicists are continuously searching for the “Theory of Everything,” and these works have helped me comprehend.

Each of the books mentioned here, explores different aspects of the relationship between science, philosophy, and spirituality.

The Tao of Physics by Fritjof Capra is a pioneering work that draws parallels between Eastern mysticism, particularly Taoism, and modern physics. It suggests that both perspectives converge on a fundamental understanding of reality.

A Brief History of Time by Stephen Hawking is a seminal work that aims to make complex scientific concepts accessible to a broader audience. It primarily deals with the nature of the universe, its origins, and fundamental concepts in physics, such as black holes and the Big Bang.

The God Equation by Michio Kaku delves into the quest for a “Theory of Everything” in modern physics, which would unify all fundamental forces in the universe. It explores concepts like string theory and the potential implications of such a theory.

Modern Physics and Vedanta by Swami Jitatmananda bridges the gap between ancient Indian philosophy (Vedanta) and modern physics. It attempts to show the similarities in the understanding of reality between these seemingly disparate traditions.

Adding the Ten Principal Upanishads to your reading list is an excellent suggestion. These ancient texts form the core philosophical teachings of Vedanta and provide profound insights into the nature of reality, consciousness, and the self. The Upanishad emphasizes the idea that every individual’s birth is part of a larger cosmic process, and the universe is the ultimate parent of all beings. 

There are fascinating parallels between the concepts in quantum physics, cosmology, and the Panchagni Vidya regarding non-duality:

  1. Non-Duality and Quantum Physics:
    • In quantum physics, the principle of non-duality is echoed in phenomena like entanglement, where particles become correlated and act as a single system regardless of distance. This challenges the notion of separate, independent entities.
    • The uncertainty principle also highlights the inherent interconnectedness, suggesting that attributes like position and momentum cannot be simultaneously precisely known.
  2. Cosmology and Non-Duality:
    • Cosmology, particularly theories like the Big Bang, indicates that the entire universe emerged from an initial singularity—a state of undivided oneness. This aligns with the idea of non-duality, where all phenomena originate from a singular source.
  3. Panchagni Vidya and Modern Science:
    • The Panchagni Vidya, with its teaching of interconnectedness and non-duality, offers a philosophical perspective that resonates with the findings of modern science.
    • The metaphor of the five fires illustrates the interdependence of various elements, reflecting the interplay of forces in the cosmos.
  4. Implications for Understanding Reality:
    • These similarities suggest a converging understanding of reality across different disciplines. The recognition of non-duality implies a fundamental unity underlying the diverse manifestations of the universe.
  5. Bridge Between Ancient Wisdom and Modern Science:
    • The convergence of these concepts showcases the potential for ancient philosophical wisdom, like that found in the Upanishads, to align with and even complement modern scientific insights.

What daily habit do you do that improves your quality of life?

In response to today’s prompt, here is my answer.

The following are the things I do on a daily basis to better my quality of life:

Getting up at Brahma muhurta (between 3:30 to 3:40 AM):

 I love getting up early because it gives me time to enjoy the peace and quiet before the rest of the world wakes up. A peaceful mood is set for the day.

Chanting of Gayatri Mantra (between 4:00 to 4:15 AM):

 When I chant the Gayatri Mantra in a steady pace, it helps me concentrate and relax. It’s a spiritual practise that gets my day off to a good start.

Transcendental meditation of 30-50 minutes followed by Pranayama & Surya Namaskar [Sun Salutation]:

The time I spend cultivating my mind through meditation and pranayama is invaluable to me. My mental and emotional health have greatly benefited from the practice’s effects on stress and anxiety.

Surya Namaskar, the graceful sequence of yoga postures, pays homage to the sun’s vital energy. With each fluid movement, it awakens the body, mind, and spirit, embracing a holistic renewal. This rhythmic practice is a symphony of gratitude and vitality, uniting breath and motion in harmonious synergy.

Morning walk (6:30 to 7:30 AM):

Taking a brisk walk first thing in the morning helps me feel more energised and focused for the rest of the day. Getting outside and breathing in some fresh air helps me feel refreshed and ready to take on the day.

Studying Vedanta Darshan in the afternoon:

 Vedanta Darshan, which I study in the afternoons, feeds my inquisitive mind. Taking part in this activity has helped me develop both intellectually and spiritually.

Advaita Vedanta, the timeless wisdom of non-duality, has been my guiding star on this transformative journey. Through its teachings, I’ve embraced the understanding of Absolute reality—the core of existence that transcends duality. This profound insight has unravelled the roots of fear, replacing them with a profound sense of unity and wholeness.

https://arunsingha.in/2023/07/27/what-strategies-do-you-use-to-maintain-your-health-and-well-being/

Six Years of Holistic Transformation: Cultivating Confidence, Wisdom, and Well-Being Through Daily Practices.

I have been incorporating these methods into my daily life for the past six years, and my quest towards holistic health and happiness has produced incredible outcomes. This unwavering dedication has helped me develop an inner calm and steadiness that permeates every facet of my existence. This experience has strengthened not only my body and mind, but also my emotional fortitude and my grasp of the spiritual world.

The Gayatri Mantra’s soothing rhythm has helped me cultivate the incredible assurance I currently carry.

The sound waves have helped me find balance within, which has given me the confidence to take on new challenges and seize new chances. This motto has served as a beacon, illuminating the way to more confidence and calm within.

My outlook has shifted drastically for the better since I began practising transcendental meditation and pranayama.

The realization of non-duality has been my greatest tool in dispelling fear’s grip. It’s like a gentle yet powerful breeze that clears away the clouds of uncertainty, revealing the vast sky of consciousness. This understanding has shown me that fear thrives on division, but when I perceive the interconnectedness of all things, fear loses its grip on me.

Advaita Vedanta (Non-Duality)

Advaita Vedanta has equipped me with the necessary knowledge to recognize fear as an illusion born from the illusion of separation. With this realization, fear loses its potency, and I’m free to navigate life with a light heart and a clear mind. In the embrace of non-duality, fear’s power diminishes, and I step into each day with the courage to embrace whatever comes my way.

Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

The Wisdom of the Upanishads: Series-(1)

🌌 Embark on a Journey of Ancient Wisdom: ‘The Ten Principal Upanishads’ Series 🌌

Greetings, fellow seekers of knowledge!

📚 I am thrilled to introduce you to a captivating journey where we’ll explore the depths of ancient wisdom through ‘The Ten Principal Upanishads’ series – a compilation that will soon come together as an enriching book. 

Need your blessings to publish the book. “Title: Unveiling the Wisdom of the Upanishads: A Journey to Self-Realization “

🕉️ Together, we’ll unravel the mysteries that have intrigued minds for centuries, delving into the very essence of existence and consciousness. These texts are more than words; they are keys to unlock profound insights about our world and our place within it. So, join me on this enlightening expedition, as we venture into the heart of these sacred teachings. Get ready for a transformative experience!

Within my series of posts, prepare to witness an awe-inspiring fusion where the realms of Vedanta, Cosmology, and Quantum Physics entwine in a symphony of profound revelations.

Upanishads: A Journey to Self-Realization 

  Introduction: 

Salient features on Upanishads:

  • Upanishad = Upa + Nishad: Spiritual knowledge obtained by disciples sitting near or at the feet of The Guru [ means the Teacher].
  • Scholar says that Upanishads were composed during 4000-5000 BC. Some says: 2000-14000BC.
  • Nowhere it is mentioned about any author n the Upanishads. No date of origin can be fixed.
  • Teachings were imparted in stillness, noise free environment like forests where tranquillity cannot be disturbed. Those Upanishads are known as Aranyaka and these were specially intended for Vanaprastha.
  • Teachings were transmitted orally and hence called as “SRUTI”.
  • Value of Upanishad for Mankind is for all time, all places and all ages. Lessons in Scriptures are very practical and applicable for modern world as it was for Indo-Aryan period.
  • Upanishads were transported to western countries initially through Persian translation [1700 AD].
  • French scholar Anquetil Duperron brought a copy of manuscript from Persia to France. Later on, it was translated in French and Latin.
  • First English translation was made by Raja Ram Mohan Roy. [1775-1833].
  • Every Upanishad begins with a Peace mantra. (shanti path).
  • There are 108 Upanishads. Among them 10 Upanishads are considered as Principal Upanishads.
  • Who Am I? What is this, Universe? Whence and how we are born? What is mortality or Immortality? What is Atman or Brahman? What is liberation (from cycle of birth)? What is death? – All questions have answers in Upanishads. 

   Upanishads as a repository of ancient wisdom: 

The Upanishads, often referred to as the “Vedanta” or the culmination of Vedic thought, stand as timeless pillars of ancient wisdom. Rooted in the spiritual tapestry of ancient India, these profound texts delve into the deepest realms of human existence, transcending mere rituals and beliefs. The word “Upanishad” itself translates to “sitting down near,” symbolizing the intimate teacher-student relationship that characterizes their transmission. 

In the heart of the Upanishads lies a quest for the ultimate truth that transcends the transient world. These texts are not just repositories of knowledge but living guides to understanding the nature of reality, the self, and the Absolute. Across the centuries, they have illuminated the minds of seekers, philosophers, and spiritual aspirants, leaving an indelible mark on the intellectual and spiritual landscape of humanity. 

The importance of understanding the Upanishads’ teachings in the modern world: 

In an age of rapid technological advancements and ever-evolving societies, the teachings of the Upanishads resonate more profoundly than ever. Amid the hustle and bustle of modern life, where material pursuits often take precedence, the Upanishads offer a sanctuary of timeless wisdom that reminds us of our true purpose. 

Understanding the Upanishads is not a mere exercise in historical exploration but a profound opportunity to connect with the very essence of our being. These teachings invite us to go beyond the surface and seek answers to questions that have lingered in human consciousness for millennia. In a world rife with uncertainties and complexities, the Upanishads provide a steady compass, guiding us towards inner peace, self-discovery, and a harmonious relationship with the world around us. 

The universal relevance of the Upanishads’ insights: 

The teachings of the Upanishads are not confined by time, culture, or geography. Their insights transcend the boundaries of tradition and speak to the universal human experience. The themes woven into the fabric of these texts—such as the nature of reality, the Self, and the Absolute, known as “Brahman”—are questions that have stirred the hearts and minds of people across cultures and eras. 

The Upanishads remind us that our shared humanity is rooted in the quest for understanding the fundamental truths of existence. Their insights have the power to bridge gaps between different worldviews, fostering a sense of unity among diverse individuals. By unravelling the layers of symbolism and metaphor, readers from all walks of life can find common ground in their pursuit of meaning and purpose. 

In an increasingly interconnected world, the Upanishads beckon to us as a source of profound wisdom that transcends divisions. Their teachings serve as a guiding light, leading us towards self-realization and a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of all life. 

What is Advaita Vedanta [Non-Duality]?

All answers will be in the next series of posts.

Lord of Death ” Yama “ explained the reality through conversations between them. That is the Essence of Katha Upanishad.

What is Non-Duality?

Introduction:

What is non-duality?

Non-duality, also known as Advaita Vedanta, is a philosophical and spiritual concept that originated in ancient India. Non-Duality means there is ultimately no fundamental separation between the self (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman) or between any other entities or phenomena in existence. Non-duality asserts that the true nature of reality is a single, undivided, and indivisible whole.

The Upanishads collectively offer deep philosophical and spiritual insights into non-duality.

What is Advaita Vedanta?

Advaita Vedanta is a philosophical and spiritual tradition rooted in the ancient scriptures of India, particularly the Upanishads, which are considered the culmination of Vedic wisdom. “Advaita” translates to “non-duality” or “not-two” and “Vedanta” means “the culmination of knowledge.”

Pioneer of Advaita Vedanta

ADI SHANKARACHARYA

The primary figure considered as the pioneer of Advaita Vedanta is Adi Shankaracharya, a philosopher and spiritual leader who lived in India during the 8th century CE. Shankaracharya is credited with reviving and systematizing the Advaita Vedanta tradition, consolidating its teachings and establishing Mathas (monastic centres) to preserve and propagate its principles.

Non-duality holds significant importance in human beings: 

Dissolution of suffering:

Non-duality suggests that the root cause of suffering is the illusion of separation and the identification with the ego or individual self. By realizing the non-dual nature of reality, individuals can transcend the limitations of the ego and experience a sense of peace, contentment, and liberation from suffering.

Unity and interconnectedness:

Non-duality emphasizes the underlying unity and interconnectedness of all existence. Recognizing this interconnectedness can foster a sense of compassion, empathy, and understanding towards others and the world around us. 

Transcendence of duality and conflicts:

Non-duality challenges the dualistic thinking that often leads to conflicts, divisions, and polarization. By transcending the perception of separateness, individuals can cultivate a more inclusive and harmonious approach to relationships, society, and global issues.

Expanded consciousness and awareness:

Non-duality invites individuals to go beyond the limited boundaries of the ego and expand their consciousness and awareness. It encourages exploration of the nature of perception, thought, and consciousness itself, leading to deeper insights into the nature of reality and the self.

Freedom from limitations and conditioning:

Non-duality invites individuals to question and transcend conditioned beliefs, concepts, and societal conditioning. It encourages a direct investigation into the nature of one’s own experience, allowing for the possibility of breaking free from limiting patterns and beliefs and opening up to new possibilities.

Transcendence of the ego:

Non-duality challenges the ego’s dominance and invites individuals to see through the illusion of a separate, individual self. By transcending the ego, individuals can experience a sense of freedom, liberation, and a deeper connection to the essence of being.

It's important to note that while non-duality holds these potential benefits, the journey towards understanding and experiencing non-duality is deeply personal and can vary from individual to individual. 

In non-dual philosophy, the ultimate reality, often referred to as Brahman, is considered to be infinite, timeless, and transcendent. It is beyond the grasp of ordinary perception and conceptualization. The self, or Atman, which is often associated with individual consciousness, is understood to be identical to Brahman. From this perspective, the individual self is not separate from the ultimate reality; it is an expression or manifestation of it.

There are a few figures who have explored the relationship between science and non-duality:

Erwin Schrödinger:

Schrödinger was an Austrian physicist who made significant contributions to the development of quantum mechanics. He was also deeply interested in Eastern philosophies, particularly Vedanta, which influenced his scientific thinking. Schrödinger saw parallels between the non-dual concepts of Vedanta and the fundamental principles of quantum physics. His book “What Is Life?” explores the relationship between physics and consciousness.

Fritjof Capra:

Capra is an Austrian-born physicist and systems theorist. In his book “The Tao of Physics,” he explores the parallels between Eastern mysticism, particularly Taoism and Buddhism, and modern physics, including quantum mechanics. Capra suggests that both Eastern mysticism and quantum physics challenge the prevailing Cartesian-Newtonian worldview and point towards a more holistic and interconnected understanding of reality.

Amit Goswami:

Goswami is a theoretical physicist and author who has written extensively on the relationship between science and spirituality. In his book “The Self-Aware Universe,” he explores the implications of quantum physics for consciousness and proposes a framework that integrates non-dual spiritual concepts with scientific understanding. 

Rupert Spira:

Spira is a contemporary British philosopher and teacher of non-duality. Although not a scientist himself, he often engages with scientific ideas and draws upon scientific findings, particularly in the fields of neuroscience and quantum physics, to support and elucidate the non-dual understanding of reality. 

David Bohm:

Bohm was a prominent theoretical physicist who made significant contributions to quantum mechanics and the philosophy of physics. He explored the implications of quantum physics for understanding consciousness and the nature of reality. Bohm’s book “Wholeness and the Implicate Order” presents his holistic worldview, drawing parallels between non-dual concepts and the interconnectedness revealed in quantum theory.

Carl Jung:

Jung, a renowned Swiss psychiatrist and psychoanalyst, explored the realms of the unconscious mind and collective consciousness. He recognized the importance of mystical experiences and spiritual insights in psychological development. Jung’s concepts of the collective unconscious and synchronicity, which involve a transcendent interconnectedness, resonate with non-dual perspectives.

Conclusion:

Non-duality is a profound philosophical and spiritual concept, it can be challenging to fully grasp through intellectual understanding alone. It often requires a direct experiential realization that goes beyond conceptual knowledge. Advaita Vedanta posits that the world of multiplicity and diversity is an apparent reality, a product of ignorance (avidya). The ultimate truth is the non-dual, all-pervading consciousness, which is beyond any conceptual or empirical understanding.

 “This Atman (Self) cannot be attained through study of the Vedas, nor through intelligence, nor through much learning. He who chooses Atman—by him alone is Atman attained. It is Atman that reveals to the seeker Its true nature.” [from Katha Upanishad: 1.2.23.]

Adi Sankaracharya Jayanti:2023

SRI ADI SHANKARACHARYA

Greetings friends! Today is Adi Sankaracharya Jayanti:2023 🙏🙏🙏

Significance of birth anniversary of Jagatguru, who established “Char Dham”.

For ages, the supreme Vedic knowledge about the indwelling self (Sakshi Chaitanya) and the identity of “Brahman” has been transmitted through an unbroken lineage of preceptors and disciples to the modern age. However, during the prevalence of Buddhism, the progress was temporarily arrested. In the 8th century AD, Sri Shankaracharya appeared and revived the Vedic religion, re-establishing it for future generations.

Founder of Advaita Vedanta, Sri Adi Shankaracharya was born in Kerala, India in the 8th century. He is known for his commentaries on the Upanishads, the Bhagavad Gita, and the Brahma Sutras, which are the foundational texts of Hinduism. His teachings emphasized the unity of all existence and the non-dual nature of the ultimate reality, which he called Brahman. Shankaracharya travelled across India between the age of 16 and 32. It is believed that at the age of 32, he left this world.

 Shri Adi Shankaracharya said: ” there Exists one Absolute Brahman, who is “Sat-Chit-Ananda” and homogeneous in nature.

Adi Shankaracharya established four Mathas in four directions, which are known as “Char Dham”.

Sringeri Sharada Matha:

Located in Sringeri, Karnataka, this matha is dedicated to the goddess Sharada, who is considered to be the patron goddess of learning and wisdom.

Dwaraka Sharada Matha:

Located in Dwaraka, Gujarat, this matha is dedicated to the goddess Saraswati, who is the goddess of knowledge and learning in Hinduism.

Govardhan Matha:

Located in Puri, Odisha, this matha is dedicated to Lord Jagannath and is also known as the Dwarka matha.

Jyotir Matha:

Located in the state of Uttarakhand, in the northern part of India, this matha is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva. It is believed to have been established by Shankaracharya in the 8th century AD.

Works of Sri Adi Shankaracharya:

Shankaracharya is known for his commentaries, treatises, and philosophical works. Some of his most important works include:

  1. Advaita Vedanta: This work is a commentary on the Brahma Sutras, which is one of the foundational texts of Hinduism. It explains the philosophy of Advaita Vedanta, which emphasizes the non-dual nature of ultimate reality.
  2. Brahma Sutras: This is one of the foundational texts of Hinduism, which contains aphorisms that summarize the teachings of the Upanishads. Shankaracharya wrote a commentary on this text, called the Advaita Vedanta, which explains the philosophy of non-dualism.
  3. Upanishads: These are a collection of texts that contain philosophical and spiritual teachings and are considered to be one of the core texts of Hinduism. Shankaracharya wrote commentaries on several of the major Upanishads, including the Katha Upanishad, the Chandogya Upanishad, and the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad.
  4. Bhagavad Gita: This is a Hindu scripture that contains a dialogue between the warrior Arjuna and his charioteer, Lord Krishna. It is considered to be one of the most important texts of Hinduism, and Shankaracharya wrote a commentary on it called the Gita Bhashya.

    Lines from Bhagavad Geeta
  5. Viveka Chudamani: This work is a treatise on the nature of the self and the ultimate reality. It explains the concept of maya, or illusion, and how it leads to the mistaken belief in a separate self.
  6. Upadesasahasri: This work is a philosophical dialogue between Shankaracharya and his disciples, in which he explains the nature of reality and the path to enlightenment.
  7. Bhaja Govindam: This is a devotional poem that emphasizes the importance of spiritual practice and detachment from material possessions.       Listen Bhaja Govindam👈
  8. Soundarya Lahari: This work is a collection of hymns and verses that praise the goddess Shakti, who represents the creative and transformative power of the universe.

Listen first 10 shlokas of Soundarya Lahari: – sung by Dr. Anamika Pandey, Senior Public Health Expert, Lucknow. 👇

To learn chanting and explanation of “Saundarya Lahari”, Dr. Anamika can be approached through her mail ID: Anamika.pandey29@gmail.com

And many more: – Nirvana Shatakam:👈

All-Absorbent Meditation

Introduction:

All-Absorbent Meditation: also, it is known as “Samvarga Vidya“

The term "Samvarga Vidya" is mentioned in several of the Upanishads, including the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad and the Chhandogya Upanishad. In these texts, it is described as a practice of meditation that leads to the realization of the ultimate reality or truth behind all things.

All-Absorbent Meditation is a term from the ancient Indian spiritual tradition of Vedanta. It refers to a practice of meditation that involves focusing the mind on the ultimate reality or truth behind all things and experiencing a state of pure consciousness in which the individual self merges with the Universal Self.

In this practice, the meditator seeks to absorb all of their mental and emotional energies into the object of meditation, which is the ultimate reality or divine essence that underlies all of existence. The goal is to transcend the limited sense of individual self and merge with the infinite consciousness [ Known as “Brahman” Vedanta] that pervades all things.

The practice of Samvarga Vidya is considered to be one of the most advanced forms of meditation in the Vedantic tradition, requiring a high degree of concentration, detachment, and devotion to spiritual ideals. It is said to lead to a profound sense of inner peace, clarity, and spiritual insight, as well as a deep understanding of the nature of reality and the Self.

In the Chhandagyo Upanishad, All-Absorbent Meditation or Samvarga Vidya is described as the process of merging the individual soul with the ultimate reality or Brahman. This Vidya comes in the form of a story. The story of King Janasruti and Raikva. 

I have published the story in my blog. The link is given above.

The story of King Janasruti and Raikva is a famous tale from the ChAndogya Upanishad, which illustrates the importance of humility, devotion, and the pursuit of spiritual knowledge. The story is found in the fourth chapter of the Upanishad, spanning from 4.1 to 4.3.

The story of King Janasruti and Raikva is a powerful illustration of the importance of humility and the pursuit of spiritual knowledge, as well as the idea that true wisdom can come from unexpected sources. It also emphasizes the importance of having a qualified teacher who can guide one on the path to spiritual enlightenment.

King Janasruti sat with pride, Thinking himself so wise and right. But his heart was longing for the truth, The knowledge that would bring him to light.

Raikva, a humble cart driver, came along and caught the king’s eye. “Teach me,” said Janasruti with desire, “The knowledge that makes the heart fly.”

Raikva replied with a gentle smile, “I am but a mere cart driver, O king. What knowledge can I impart to thee, When thou hast riches and power in thy ring?”

Janasruti bowed down with humility, Humbled by Raikva’s wise words. “I seek not thy wealth or status, O king, But the knowledge that frees the soul like birds.”

Raikva then shared the truth with him, that knowledge is not in wealth or name. But in devotion and love for the divine, which alone can bring one eternal fame.

The king was humbled by Raikva’s grace, and he bowed down with folded hands. “Thou art the true teacher, O wise one, who has shown me the path to the divine lands.”

Conclusion:

What is All-Absorbent Meditation?

Every one of us is pulled towards the objects of sense, whereas we cannot pull anything into our own selves. Senses are always outward. We are like slave of the outwardly pleasures of sense. Therefore, we are slave of worldly pleasures. How can we absorb these outwardly pleasures, desires? How can we make these desires our slaves? If we can understand the teachings imparted by Raikva, we can control our desires and make them our slaves. Therefore consuming (controlling) desires and merging them inside, we can make them our slaves. They will be at our feet. This Vidya is also known as Samvarga Vidya, a technique of Meditation.

World Happiness Day-2023: A note on spiritual perspective.

“World Happiness Day” is a global observance celebrated annually on March 20th.Yesteday we observed that. 

Let Happiness be forever:

The United Nations designated this day to promote happiness and well-being as universal goals and aspirations in the lives of people around the world. The idea behind World Happiness Day is to recognize that happiness is a fundamental human goal, and that promoting happiness can help to promote social progress, economic growth, and sustainable development.

Let us look what is Happiness in the perspective of Vedanta?

Joy, Bliss and Happiness are all same. In Sanskrit, we say this as “Ananda”.

According to Vedanta, the goal of Human is ” Attyantika Dukshya Nibritti, Paramananda praptyachya”.

Our aim to increase happiness and well-being among individuals, communities, and societies can be achieved through ONENESS. For that, our activities may include gaining true knowledge, the Awareness along with practice mindfulness exercises, gratitude practices, community service, charity work, and other positive actions that promote happiness and well-being.

Vedanta teaches that the root cause of our suffering is our identification with the body-mind complex and our attachment to external objects and experiences. When we identify with the limited and impermanent aspects of ourselves and seek happiness through external means, we experience only temporary and fleeting pleasure, which is always followed by pain and dissatisfaction.

A small post on the basis of ancient Indian Philosophy.

According to Vedanta, happiness is not something that can be acquired from external sources, but rather it is an inherent aspect of our true nature. In Vedanta, our true nature is referred to as Atman or Brahman, which is the ultimate reality that underlies all existence. Happiness, therefore, is not a state that can be achieved through external means, but rather it is the natural state of being that arises when we realize our true nature.

The Taittiriya Upanishad, the Brahmananda Valli section, describes joy or Ananda as an aspect of Brahman, the ultimate reality.

According to this Upanishad, “Brahman” is not just the cause of the Universe(s), but also the source of infinite joy and bliss. The Brahmananda Valli explains that the experience of joy arises when we are in harmony with the divine essence of Brahman, and that this joy is not limited by time, space or circumstances.

The text describes different levels of joy, including the physical pleasure derived from sensory experiences, the joy of the mind derived from intellectual pursuits, and the ultimate joy of the soul that arises from union with Brahman. It suggests that the joy derived from sensory experiences and intellectual pursuits is fleeting and limited, while the joy of the soul is eternal and limitless.

The Taittiriya Upanishad emphasizes the importance of seeking this ultimate joy by purifying the mind and practicing spiritual disciplines such as meditation, self-inquiry, and devotion to Brahman. It suggests that the ultimate goal of human life is to realize our true nature as divine beings and experience the unbounded joy and bliss that comes with this realization.

Long back I published a post ” What is Joy” in three parts. The links are given below. You may have a look.

What is Joy? (Part-1)

What is Joy (Part-2)

What is Joy?-part-3 (concluding part)

 

World Sleep Day 2023: A note on spiritual perspective:

World Sleep Day 2023 is on March 17th. World Sleep Day is an annual event that is celebrated on the Friday before the Spring Equinox in the Northern Hemisphere. The day aims to raise awareness about the importance of sleep and the impact that sleep has on overall health and well-being.

We are all familiar with the three states of daily experience: 1)Waking 2) Dreaming and 3) Dreamless Sleep.

Let us focus on issues related to sleep and mental health, in the perspective of ancient philosophy as well as the impact of technology on sleep patterns.

DELTA BRAINWAVES

Delta (0.5-3.0 Hz): The deep sleep Wave.

The Delta frequency is the slowest of the frequencies and it is experienced in deep, dreamless sleep and in very deep, transcendental, meditation where awareness is completely detached. Delta is the realm of the unconscious mind. It is the Gateway to the Universal mind.

What Vedanta Says about Dreamless Sleep 😴


BRRihadAraNyaka Upanishad IV.3,9: Says as below 👇


When he dreams, he takes away a little of the impression of this all embracing world (the waking state), himself puts the body aside and himself creates a dream body in it’s place, revealing his own lustre by his own light and dreams. In this state, the man himself becomes the light.


Let us know more on the Deep Sleep state according to VEDANTA.


The Deep Sleep state (SuShupta~SU=Sundar/excellent +sUpta=Sleep) ~ prajNa and antaryAmin.


In this state, waking world and dreaming world temporarily ceases. We exist here in non dual state. Most refreshing state. A state of Bliss(with ignorance). In the waking and dreaming state, we are diverted from this state of bliss, though knowledge of our true nature is absent here. All the perceived limitations are removed in this temporary state but ready to spring forth as soon as we move to waking world.

In that sleep state, not for anything desirable does one have any desire.(यत्र सुप्तो न कञ्चन कामं कामयते). Not the slightest trace of dream does it see in that state of deep sleep.(न कञ्चन स्वप्नं पश्यति तत् सुषुप्तम् ). In the sphere of deep sleep, there is just one ” homogenous mass of consciousness” alone (सुषुप्तस्थान एकीभूतः प्रज्ञानघन). Because of his union with the Self and his unbroken knowledge of it, he is filled with joy, he knows his joy, his mind is illuminated (एवानन्दमयो ह्यानन्दभुक् चेतोमुखः). Such is the called third quarter called prajNa (चेतोमुखः प्राज्ञस्तृतीयः पादः).

This dreamless sleep is a causal state of mind. Here all operations of the mind are completely hushed. Even ego-consciousness becomes lost. We don’t know what we are. A king is no king or a beggar is no beggar in this state. In Deep Sleep we have no will, no fear, no worries. But when we emerge into a waking state, all operations of restless minds start.

A Deep Sleep is very important and required for peace and happiness ☺️

A TALK SHOW ON VEDANTA

I had a blissful time by presenting a brief introduction on Upanishads (#Vedanta) in a club house at Bangalore City in India 

It was an awesome event with all aspirants to know about the Highest knowledge.

Few photos are taken by organising team

Higher Knowledge: Right Understanding.

Introduction:

Right understanding comes from study of Scriptures and study of Prasthana Traya gave me right understanding. Human must identify Avidya and Vidya. Vidya is that knowledge, which is the experience of the ultimate Reality, “Brahman”. Here we will discuss “Para Vidya”, the Higher Knowledge as described in “Mundaka Upanishad”. Right knowledge and understanding are essential. After right understanding comes realization. It is purely personal, beyond description. Cannot be said in words. Only realization works finally. Faith, devotion, speculation, belief will not work alone. Therefore, following points are essential to understand.

1.Purpose of Life:

2.Nature of Brahman: The Supreme Reality:

3.The Origin of the Universe:

4.Karma, Rebirth, Maya, Afterlife, Immortality etc.

All the above topics are part of Higher Knowledge: Para Vidya: 

The Vedas clearly Speak of two distinct fields of Knowledge:

A) The Lower Knowledge (Apara Vidya) & B) The Higher Knowledge (Para Vidya).

Question: What is that by knowing which, everything else is known.

Mundaka Upanishad is one of the Ten Principal Upanishads, a Sanskrit Text embedded inside Atharva Veda. In this Upanishad, the aspirant Saunaka asks the Sage Angira, the famous question ” What is that by knowing which, everything else is known.”

Then sage Angira starts explaining about two kinds of knowledge.

 Apara Vidya begins with the Karma Kanda. Those who follow the Karma Kanda Rituals (Agnihotra) are desirous of obtaining pleasures through actions. But this is not our goal. Sage Angria said to householder Saunaka : ” The Sages studied the Rituals described in the Vedas, went beyond them to the Truth. You may find it better to stay with them; if you seek the reward of your actions, stay with them”.

Few lines from the Text follows.

 Agnihotra (fire sacrifice) is considered to be null and void if even one of the eight given conditions is not full filled.

Also, it is said that better than Karma Kanda is Upasana Kanda which is the middle path, and it prepares for the Gyan Kanda.

Sparks from the Flaming FIRE:

Spark of the Flaming Fire

Know this Truth from the higher standpoint:

The fire sparks, though of one nature with the fire, leap from it; uncounted beings leap from the Everlasting, but these, my son, merge into it again.

Absolute Nature of Brahman: Nirguna Brahman & Saguna Brahman

Nirguna Brahman:

The Divine is Shapeless (Divine formless), Birthless, Breathless, Mindless, above everything, outside everything, inside everything. Absolutely Pure, verily even from the Indestructible (Causal), higher than Highest means transcending even the transcendent Ishwara” means beyond the Causal state.

 Saguna Brahman as “Hiranyagarbha” –the Subtle Macrocosm:

From Him (Brahman) are born the Prana, the Mind, and all the sense organs, the elements, sky, wind, fire, water, and earth which support all creation.

According to Bhasya, the creation of the Subtle Body at Samasthi or microcosmic level is emphasized here. Aim is to show that Prana, mind and all other elements cannot co-exist with Brahman. From Brahman, in association with Maya, arises Ishwara, the Creator. From Ishwara, arises the five subtle elements known as Tanmatras. From Tanmatras arise the mind and the pranas, from their Sattvic and Rajasic portions respectively.

 Saguna Brahman as Virat- the Gross Macrocosmic.

HE is the inmost Self of all. Fire His head; Sun and moon, His eyes; the four quarters, His ears; The Vedas when uttered are His voice; Wind, His Breath; The Universe, His Heart; Earth, His Feet. He is indeed the inner Self of all beings. This is the macrocosmic picture of Virat that is Total Gross Universe.

The Five Fires in the Cosmos: The ” Panchagni”

Fire is from Him, its fuel Sun, moon from Sun, rain from moon, food from rain, man from food, seed from man; thus, all descends from Purusha (Supreme).

From HIM are produced the 1st Fire, whose fuel is SUN. From the MOON comes the Rain Clouds (2nd Fire), from Clouds, the Herbs (3rd Fire) on Earth. From Herbs comes Man (the 4th Fire). His semen is Shed into the Woman (the 5th Fire). In this sequential process, many living beings from the PURUSHA are produced. This is the “Cycle of Five Fires.” “The Panchagni- Five Cosmic Fires.”

Origin of Karma Kanda Rituals:

From Him come the Hymns of the Rig & Sama Vedas and the Sacrificial formula of the Yajur Veda, used in the preliminary rites. Then come the sacrifice, the sacrificial post, the sacrificial gifts etc., the time of sacrifice, the sponsor of the sacrifice, and the worlds (to be gained by the sacrifice); purified by the Lunar and Solar paths.

Origin of Upasana Kanda Rituals

From Him also Gods of various hierarchies are born. There are the celestials, the men, the animals and the birds. There are the in-breath and out-breath, the corn and barley, and austerity ; there are faith, truthfulness, sexual abstinence, and all the values of life.

“The Secret of Groups of Seven”

The Seven Pranas are born from HIM alone. The Seven flames [The Seven Tongues of Fire explained in First Mundaka, 2nd Khanda, Mantra no: 4], the Seven-fold fuel, the Seven-fold oblations; as also the Seven ” nodal points” or Chakras, where the Pranas are seated (distribution in the Body) in the “cave of the heart” (of all beings) lie all these in groups of Sevens.

Our Physical World: From HIM arise oceans, rivers, mountains, herbs and their properties. And in the middle of the elements is the innermost Self.

 Brahman and Universe are ONE.

The Purusha alone is this entire Universe- the sacrificial works and austerities. He is The Supreme Consciousness. This highest and immortal Brahman. He who knows this as seated in the cavity of the heart, unties the knot of ignorance even here in this very life, O good-looking son.

Conclusion:

This Universe, including all subjects and all objects, is only a condition supported by the Supreme Consciousness, on the basis of which appearances are experienced by the cognizing individual and without which the Universe has no Reality. In fact, what is real in the Universe is nothing more and nothing less than the Existence-Consciousness-Bliss (Sat-Chit-Ananda). The names and the forms are not existent substances. When the Purusha is known, all is known. In fact, there is no such thing as all, except this One Purusha. The Knowledge of the Purusha, therefore, means the absence of Duality which is the same as the destruction of Ignorance and attainment of Immortality and Absoluteness.

Recommended readings:

  1. Back to the Truth: 5000 years of ADVAITA by Dennis Waite. **
  2. THE TEN PRINCIPAL UPANISHADS: Translated by Shree Purohit** Swami and W.B.Yeats
  3. Brahma Sutra Bhasya of Sankaracharya: Translated by Swami Gambhirananda.**
  4. Commentary of Mundaka Upanishad: By Swami Krishnananda.
  5. MUNDAKA Upanishad By Swami GuruBhaktananda.
  6. EIGHT UPANISADS -VOL-1 with commentary of Sankaracharya, Translated by SWAMI GAMBHIRANANDA.
  7. THE TAITTIRIYA UPANISHAD: SHIKSHAVALLI-ANANDAVALLI-BHRIGUVALLI with Sri Shankara’s Commentary by Sri Swami Satchidanandera Saraswati.
  8. Information available on internet.

It is my sincere request to the esteemed readers to share their opinion or queries if any. Suggestions to make the site attractive will be highly helpful for me. Readers are requested to read all the posts to have continuation of the topic from the beginning. My mail ID is: arun7663@gmail.com

Ancient story: Sage Uddalaka and his son Shvetaketu~PART-1

Introduction:

We will know the highest truth from the teachings imparted by the Sage “Uddalaka” and his son Shvetaketu”. Know the answer to this question: Please read with patience. Whole story is abstract. Try to understand the essence between the lines. Each picture is relevant to the post. 

Highly meaningful. Read and enjoy🙏😊❤️

What is That, by knowing which everything is known?

The Story:

Once upon a time there was one boy “Shvetaketu”, the grandson of sage Aruna. His father sage Uddalaka said to him: ” O Shvetaketu, my son! live the life of a Brahmacharin. Find a teacher, learn; none in our family is there, anyone who does not study, and who is a Brahmin in name only.”

Shvetaketu returned home, stiff-necked, arrogant, self-willed.

The boy was sent to Gurukul at the age of twelve and he returned house after graduation. Having studied all the Vedas, full of knowledge, feeling very learned and proud, he showed something extra personality. His father then asked him: ” Shvetaketu, dear boy, I see now that you possess full knowledge, confidence, feeling very learned and it seems that you have become proud.

Father Uddalaka introduces the Spiritual Teaching after a Test.

Uddalaka said:’ My Son! You think such a lot yourself, but did you ask your teacher about that initiation, which makes a man hear what is not heard, think what is not thought, know what is not known.?’

Shvetaketu replied: ” Revered father, what is that initiation? Of what nature is that teaching?” 

The Teachings begin with Examples of Clay, Gold and Metal:

Product (Effect) is non-different from its material (cause):

Uddalaka said:’ Dear Son! By knowing a lump of clay, you know all things all things are made of clay, they differ from one another as it were in language and in name, having no reality but their clay.

 

 

 

 

 

By knowing one nugget of Gold, you know all things made of that Gold. They differ from one another as it were in language and in name, having no reality but their Gold.

 

 

 

 

 

 

All products, being due to words, a mere name:

By knowing one piece of base metal, you know all things made of that metal. They differ from one another as it were in language and in name, having no reality but their metal.

For the like reason, after that initiation, you know everything.

Svetaketu admits Ignorance:

Svetaketu replies:’ Surely my revered teachers did not know that teaching, for if they had known it, why should they have not imparted me that knowledge. However, revered father, please teach it to me.” I will tech it my dear boy,” said the father.

 Birth of Three Elements: –

My Son! In the beginning, there was “Existence alone”, mere Being, one without a second. Some say there was mere nothing, nothing whatsoever; that everything has come out of nothing.

How could Existence arise from Non-Existence?

But how can that be true, my son,’ said Uddalaka, ‘how could that which is, come from that which is not?’ I put it otherwise, in the beginning there was mere Being, one without a second.

One Becomes Many!

He created light!!!

That Being thought” ” Would that I were many! I will create” He created light. Light thought: ” Would that I were many! I will create!” Light created the waters. When anybody weeps or sweats, the tears and the sweat are created by light.

Those waters thought” Would that we were many! We will create!” They created food. Whenever and whatever it rains, food is abundant. Food is from water!

Discussion: 

We may consider this way: That Fire [ENERGY] as well as Akasa [SPACE], both are created from same source. The order of sequence in the creation is not what is meant to be asserted here; all that is meant to be asserted is that ” all this is the product of Being (Entity) and hence, all is Being alone, one, without a second’.

The Origin of Life:

There are Three classes of creatures: the egg-born, the womb-born, the soil-born.

That Divine Being thought: ” I will go into the three gods-light, water, food. I will give them not only life, but names and shapes.”

The process of Triplication:

‘ He said: ” I will make each of them threefold.” He and life went into three gods, and He gave them names and shapes.

‘You shall hear, my son, how He divides each of the three gods into three, and each of these three into three again.’

These Elements as mentioned here, — Fire, water and Earth, are what we usually known as subtle Elements. They are the pure principles of creation. Later on, they get mixed in certain proportions for the manifestation of grosser elements, namely, The Fire, The Water and the Earth that we see with our eyes. So, what the Upanishad speaks of here as Fire, Water and Earth are not the physical Fire, Water and Earth that we see. They are the super physical elements called Tanmatras. These Tanmatras are mixed or blended in certain proportions. This is called Trivritkarana in Sanskrit (This means Triplication- the mixing of three attributes, three substances, in certain proportions.)

Essential Truth of the Three Elements: 

In Fire, the red colour is the form of Fire; that which is white belongs to WATER; that which is black belongs to FOOD. Thus vanishes the quality of Fire from Fire, for, based upon words, all modifications are but name and the Three forms. This alone is the Truth.

Truth about the SUN:

In The SUN, the red colour is the form of Fire; that which is white belongs to WATER; that which is black belongs to FOOD. Thus vanishes the quality of SUN from SUN, for, based upon words, all modifications are but name and the Three forms. This alone is the Truth.

In The MOON, the red colour is the form of Fire; that which is white belongs to WATER; that which is black belongs to FOOD. Thus vanishes the quality of MOON from MOON, for, based upon words, all modifications are but name and the Three forms. This alone is the Truth.

In Lightning, the red colour is the form of Fire; that which is white belongs to WATER; that which is black belongs to FOOD. Thus vanishes the quality of Lightning from it, for, based upon words, all modifications are but name and the Three forms. This alone is the Truth.

It was indeed on knowing this process that the ancients spoke the following: – The ancients being the great house holders and the great Vedic scholars. To us at present there is nothing unheard, unthought or unknown, that anyone can point out. For from these they understood everything.
Whatever else appeared Red thus, as the colour of Subtle Fire thus did, they understand it to be. 
Whatever else appeared White thus, as the colour of Subtle Water thus did, they understand it to be. 
Whatever else appeared Black thus, as the colour of Subtle Food thus did, they understand it to be. 

Every object in creation has been reduced to its constituents, and it has been discovered that there is nothing in an object except its constituents. This is a law that can apply to every object, whatever its character be. The difference in the contour or the shape of the object is not very important. What is important is the nature of the substance out of which it is formed.

Conclusion:

In this manner, Sage Uddalaka directs the attention of Svetaketu on the essence underlying each object in creation. By taking our minds away from the physical or external qualities of name and form, we are guided to focus on the Absolute Existence (SAT) behind all three elements. In this manner we will understand the real meaning of “Tat Tvam Asi” which is ultimate Reality. In this manner the theme of one of the MahaVakyas : “Tat Tvam Asi” in next section.

“Eva Satyam“: Truth alone exists. Finally, even the three Elements have to be Transcended and we have to see the Pure Existence alone in everything.

STORY WILL CONTINUE!!!

Recommended readings:

  1. Back to the Truth: 5000 years of ADVAITA by Dennis Waite. **
  2. THE TEN PRINCIPAL UPANISHADS: Translated by Shree Purohit** Swami and W.B.Yeats
  3. Brahma Sutra Bhasya of Sankaracharya: Translated by Swami Gambhirananda.**
  4. Commentary of ChAndogya Upanishad: By Swami Krishnananda.
  5. ChAndogya Upanishad: By Swami GuruBhaktananda.
  6. EIGHT UPANISADS -VOL-1 with commentary of Sankaracharya, Translated by SWAMI GAMBHIRANANDA.
  7. THE TAITTIRIYA UPANISHAD: SHIKSHAVALLI-ANANDAVALLI-BHRIGUVALLI with Sri Shankara’s Commentary By Sri Swami Satchidanandera Saraswati.
  8. A-U-M Awakening to Reality: By Dennis Waite***
  9. Panchadasi: Swami Vidyaranya: 
  10. Information available on internet.

It is my sincere request to the esteemed readers to share their opinion or queries if any. Suggestions to make the site attractive will be highly helpful for me. Readers are requested to read all the posts to have continuation of the topic from the beginning. My mail ID is: arun7663@gmail.com

What is Pancha Kosha Theory?

পঞ্চকোষ তত্ত্ব: Pancha Kosha

Advaita Vedanta uses a model “Pancha Kosha” to illustrate the successive layers of identification which obscure our real nature.

“Pancha Kosha theory” has been explained in the second chapter “Ananda Valli” section of Taittiriya Upanishad. Also, in the book “Pancha Dashi” written by great Advaita scholar Swami Vidyaranya, the topic “Pancha Kosha Viveka has been explained in the third chapter.

The sole purpose of the text “Pancha Kosha” is to understand “ Who am I?”. This text will reveal the ultimate Truth and finally help us to have “Self-Realization”

PICTURE: Courtesy: #Debashree

The opening sentence of Taittiriya Upanishad , Section-2 is “Satyam jnanam anantam Brahman” which literarily means the knower of Brahman attains the Supreme.

 Let us know about the five sheaths that surround our true essence.

 [SHEATHE means KOSHA in Sanskrit ] 

According to Taittiriya Upanishad, our true essence is covered by these sheathes in the same way that a scabbard encloses the blade of sword. Self is hidden behind the mask of the personality. Concept of whole of this Five Sheaths model is highly symbolic and metaphorical. Five sheaths are as follows:- 1) AnnaMaya Kosha 2) Prana Maya Kosha 3) ManoMaya Kosha 4) VijnaMaya Kosha 5) AnandaMaya Kosha

The First Layer:  “AnnaMaya Kosha”(অন্নময়কোষ) :

From food (food= anna) arise all the creatures, which live on earth, and through food alone do they live, and finally they return to the food in the end.

 The first layer, the grossest one with which we first identify ourselves as the body, is made up of food and known as “AnnaMaya Kosha” (অন্নময়কোষ). The body takes birth, grows old, dies and decays back into the food from which it was produced. This has nothing to do with the real “Self”. This body alone is not the “Self”.

The Second layer: “Prana Maya Kosha”(প্রানময়কোষ)

This is vital life force for which the body is animated, and actions are performed. This layer is made of “Prana” the breathe which is known as “PranaMaya Kosha”(প্রানময়কোষ). We are multilayered being, composed of physical body, subtle body, and causal body . The first mentioned sheath, the AnnaMaya Kosha is permeated by four Koshas. The next layer the Second layer is “Prana Maya Kosha”. The AnnaMaya Kosha is the effect of Prana. Prana Maya Kosha controls AnnaMaya Kosha.

“Prana” is vital energy and invisible to us. It is like Electric Power ,which gives life to the machines and machines run, animates.  Same way this vital energy “Prana” animates us, the live bodies.  It runs the 1st layer the Physical body. This prana is external to further subtler energy which is Mind. The mind is so subtle and transparent, that  mind can reflect consciousness. 

Prana (Breath) is verily the life of beings and hence it is called the Universal life. It is matter of common knowledge that life becomes possible only so long as the vital energy keeps the different organs of the organism alive. ” Though this vital life force makes the body animated and actions are performed but this is not the “Real Self“. This Prana Maya Kosha separates life from death once the “Prana” leaves the body. This sheath is composed of five Pranas (prana, Udana, Vyana, Samana, Apana). These pranas have their own importance to operate The Body perfectly. Through practice of Pranayama (pranayama is breathing exercise, part of Yoga as described in the ancient texts) , we can transcend to the next layer “ManoMaya Kosha”(মনোময়কোষ). But this is not the real Self.

পঞ্চ প্রাণ |Pancha Prana

The Third layer: – “ManoMaya Kosha”(মনোময়কোষ)

This Self is embodied in the previous one (Prana) which is   the mental sheath consisting of the thinking mind.  This MIND (Manas” মন”) and the organs of perception is known as “ManoMaya Kosha”(মনোময়কোষ). This is the sheath which limits us and blocks us to go beyond.

Pancha Koshas(FIVE SHEATHS) can be divided into the three bodies: These three bodies are the objects of experience in deep sleep, dream and waking conditions, respectively. It is the causal body that is experienced in deep sleep. The subtle body in dream and the physical body in waking condition.

Three bodies are as follows:– A) The gross body “Sthula sarira”=(~ স্থুল শরীর ) consists of first layer AnandaMaya Kosha. B) The Subtle body “Sukshma sarira”( সূক্ষ্ম শরীর) consists of Pranayama Kosha, ManoMaya Kosha and VijnaMaya Kosha. Also known as Astral body. C) The causal body “Karana sarira”(~ কারণ শরীর) consists of AnandaMaya Kosha. This Self is embodied in the previous one (Prana) which is the mental sheath consisting of the thinking mind.  This MIND (Manas” মন”) and the organs of perception is known as “ManoMaya Kosha”(মনোময়কোষ). This is the sheath which limits us and blocks us to go beyond. This Kosha is powerful because bondage and liberation depends on the mind. It pervades the Prana Maya Kosha. Basically, this body is consisting of Mind through which we perceive the world via five agents (sense organs).Mind functions in three levels.  1. Conscious mind  2. Subconscious mind  3. Unconscious mind.

All the above three minds are subsets of Universal mind.

Human being is stuck in this sheath as always people are abducted by the mind (monkey mind). In the Patanjali yoga sutras 1.2 ” yoga is the stilling of modifications of mind’~” “yogass chitta vritti nirodaha”. When the fluctuations of mind are stilled, our true nature is revealed.  We have then enough clarity to perceive the Self beyond the mind. Through pranayama and pratyahara (mental withdrawal of senses) we can pervade to the next layer. But this is not the real Self.

The Fourth layer:- VijnaMaya Kosha (বিজ্ঞানময় কোষ)

Beyond Mind (Manas~ Sanskrit word) there are higher levels of mind responsible for discriminations recognizing the truth and the false fruit real or unreal. In silence it knows without needing to think. This is intellect (buddhi~ Sanskrit word). This intellectual sheath is known as “VijnaMaya Kosha”.

VijnaMaya Kosha (~Buddhi) Sheath of wisdom. This is part of subtle body. When subtle body is disciplined, the physical body also becomes very healthy and strong. The mind which is ruler of the subtle body gets flattened by worldly affections, attachments, desires etc. Through practice mind comes under control by this sheath. This self is embodied in the previous one that is ManoMaya Kosha. But this is not the real Self.

 I AM (the Real Self) the witness of this sheath.

Mind is mostly engaged with the first layer which is nothing but the body, the false identity with ego. It has a shape, size, name, fame everything.  Very much visible to self, to inner self, outer self and to others of this samsara (সংসার). • The unwavering peace we seek is realized by experiencing the unlimited and eternal Peace that is our True Identity. Though obscured by ignorance, it exists within us, waiting to be revealed. This experience is enlightenment—Self-realization.{Experience to be gained with the help of 4th layer } • Self-realization can be attained by mastering the mind. Just as only a clean, undistorted mirror can reflect our face as it truly is, only a one-pointed and tranquil mind can part the veils of ignorance to reveal and reflect the Self. The effort to free the mind from the limitations of ignorance is a drama that has been repeated since time immemorial. But if the mind leads one towards the VijnaMaya Kosha by pervading itself, then what will happen?  Let’s look beyond the mind. Beyond the mind (Manas), there are higher levels of mind responsible for discriminations, recognizing the truth and the false, real, or unreal. In silence it knows without needing to think which is intellect (Buddhi~বুদ্ধি). This intellectual sheath is known as “VijnaMaya Kosha “~sheath of wisdom.

Study of scriptures helps in realization of truth.

One must be equipped with necessary fourfold discipline:- 1. Discrimination between real (Nitya নিত্য~ eternal) and unreal (Anitya অনিত্য~transitory). 2. Renunciation of the unreal (Viraga~বৈরাগ্য) 3. Six-fold qualities. 4. Longing for liberation (Moksha ~মোক্ষ প্রাপ্তি : to escape from the cycle of births and deaths).

   Atman (The Self) is our true identity.  It is deathless, birthless, eternal and real for every individual.  It is the unchanging reality (sat ~সৎ) behind the changing body, sense organs, mind, and ego. It is Spirit, which is pure Consciousness (চিত্) and is unaffected by time-space causality. It is infinite and it is ONE without the second. As the unchanging reality in the individual is known as Atman, same way the unchanging reality in the Universe is known as “BRAHMAN”. Vedanta says This BRAHMAN and ATMAN are one and the same. VijnaMaya Kosha consists of the intellect in conjunction with the five organs of knowledge (জ্ঞানেন্দ্রিয়).

The Fifth layer-“AnandaMaya Kosha(আনন্দময় কোষ )”

This Self is embodied in the previous one. The self-consisting of Bliss is filled by it. Here is the presence of most profound peace and silence when mind becomes “NO MIND”.  This is State of Bliss  

“Satyam jnanam anantam Brahman” which means “The knower of “BRAHMAN” attains the Supreme”.  BRAHMAN is Truth, knowledge, and Infinity, which is our own very Self, the Atman.  Brahman is not an object of knowledge.  It is always witnessing subject. (দ্রষ্টা~The Seer). The Self is infinite. There is in fact no multiplicity or plurality in that ONE, Homogeneous Being, the Supreme Being and the Ultimate. Because of superimposition and our ignorance, we have forgotten our true nature.  It alone exists as the illuminator. This “Atman” the Real “Self” in its glorious existence, reveals its own Sat-Chit nature which is Anandamaya. That is why this Sheath is referred to “Anandamaya Kosha”. Actually, this Five Sheath model as mentioned in Taittiriya Upanishad is just an idea for understanding the different levels of the Self. The eternal nature of Self is Bliss only.

Through identification of five layers or sheaths the Self is revealed.  This reveals that:- “I AM NOT THE PHYSICAL BODY” “I AM NOT THE PRANA (BREATH)” “I AM NOT THE MIND” “I AM NOT THE INTELLECT (BUDDHI) “ “I AM ALSO NOT THE ANANDAMAYA KOSHA” too. ☆☆

Then who I AM?

☆☆ I am The Witness of these five sheaths.

Our true nature is beginning less, endless, non-dual, unbounded, ever free, pure, aware, Supreme Bliss. Due to ignorance known as Maya (Avidya), we pass through cycles of births and deaths and that is the cause of pain, sufferings, and miseries. Maya is compared as veil in Vedanta. The ignorance of the real nature of the Self constitutes this causal body or the seed-body. It projects the appearance of the whole Universe through the subtle sheath. This Anandamaya Kosha or the causal body is impersonal, formless, Universal, a blissful space usually identified within deep sleep (sushupti~সুসূপ্তি)

I am trying to project the concept through the figure drawn below:-

Notes:- It is my sincere request to the esteemed readers to share their opinion 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 continuation of the topic from the beginning. My mail ID is: arun7663@gmail.com

Thank you

Namaskar🙏

 

Sources and Power of Life [THE VITAL FORCE]

Introduction:   

Here we will discuss about the topic related to Life force. 

The Vital Force (Prana)= Life (Breath of the Life).

Prana is Life force.

The scientific approach of Vedanta is the basis of the Prashna Upanishad, where the teacher and the students are engaged in an enquiry into the nature of Universe. [Prashna Upanishad (প্রশ্ন উপনিষদ) Part of the Atharva Veda.]   

In this Upanishad the aspirants ask questions to their Master (The Sage) to gain highest knowledge; from the known to the unknown, from the manifest to the unmanifest, from the grossly materialistic mind to the Supremely subtle, Absolute and Pure Consciousness.

 The student named Kausalya, raised these questions to his Master (Sage):

1.From whom does this Life take its birth?       

2. How does Prana get into body?                                     

3. How does Prana there after dividing itself?                                 

4. How does Prana get out of the body?                                     

5.How does Prana support all that is outside and all that is inside? 

প্রশ্ন উপনিষদ

কোথা থেকে জীবনের জন্ম হয়?

জন্মের সময় প্রাণ কিভাবে শরীরে প্রবেশ করেন?

শরীরে প্রবেশ করলে তা কিভাবে থাকে?

প্রাণ কিভাবে শরীর ত্যাগ করেন?

কিভাবে প্রাণ বাইরের বস্তু অর্থাৎ প্রাণী ও পদার্থসমূহ কে ধারণ করেন? ইন্দ্রিয় ইত্যাদি শরীরের সঙ্গে যুক্ত বিষয়গুলিই বা কিভাবে তাঁকে আশ্রয় করে থাকে?

প্রাণ কিভাবে শরীরে প্রবেশ করেন ও শরীর ত্যাগ করেন?

Difficult Questions:

Master replied: ” Indeed the questions are transcendental. You dig into the root. However, as you are an earnest seeker of “Brahman” (Supreme Consciousness-ব্রহ্ম : ब्रह्म ). Therefore, I shall explain it to you.”

 How does Prana come to abide in this Body?

 This Life (prana) is born of Atman (Self). Life falls from the Self as shadow falls from the man. By the action of the mind, it enters into this Body.  

Prana is the basic Energy of the Universe.

Prana originates from prana. Life originates from life. Prana has mind and wisdom. Prana decides to take birth.

It is the mind which makes the prana identify itself with a particular body only, and no other. Life and Self are interwoven, but Life comes into the body that the desires of the mind may be satisfied. [(Reason: – Causal! Ref: BG: 8.5-6)]

 Delegation of power by the Supreme Prana.

As the king portions out his kingdom under different officials, lordly Prana portions out and assign duties to his five other assistants to maintain respective departments.

 The Apana, prana and samana: the assistants:

Five Pranas: 

Apana: The organs of excretion and generation under the downward stream.  [ Relates with Earth~ gravitational pull for elimination] Prana: Sun maintains Prana of the eye. Functions of eye, ear, mouth and nostrils, where He lives himself under prana. Samana:  Air, filler of all. Lying in the middle of the body is responsible for swallowing the food, distributing nutrients equally and kindler of the seven flames (2 eyes, 2 ears, 2 nostrils and mouth). 

The Vyana: Governs circulatory system.

The Self lives in the heart. There are a hundred and one arteries, from every artery start one hundred veins, from every vein seventy-two thousand smaller veins. All these are under the Vyana. It governs the circulatory system.

The Udana: Leads energy from lower to upper level of consciousness.

The special nerve mentioned here is Sushumna Nadi. Climbing through one of those 72 crores nadis, the upward stream, Udana leads the meritorious man to his reward; the sinful man to his punishment; if his merit and demerit are mixed, back to the world. Leads from lower to upper levels of consciousness. Udana takes away the subtle body at the time of death.

 Coupling of inner with outer Upa-pranas.

Understanding the flow of Prana:

The SUN is verily the external counter part of the Prana that rises up in this body.  Rising Sun is the symbol of life. Sun maintains Prana of the eye. Earth draws down Apana. Air, filler of all maintains samana and external wind relates to vyana. That external Fire relates to this internal Udana. When light is out, sense dissolves in mind, man is born again. 

 How Does Prana Go Out?

Udana united to the mind’s desire at the moment of death, returns to life and life.  Udana lighting the way, brings the soul to whatever place it deserves. (According to desires)

The fruit of knowledge on prana:

The man who knows this, knows the meaning of life, his children are never lost. 

 A Summary:

“He who knows the sources and power of Life, how it enters, where it lives, how it divides itself into five, how it is related to the Self, attains immortality; yes!  attains immortality”

            It is believed that Prana controls the Universal energy. It moves the whole Universe. According to ancient Texts, the whole of the manifested Universe is divided into two:

1) Akasha [ Space]: the ultimate or basic stuff, out of which all the gross forms, from galaxies to atoms, from microscopic cells to the major animals and Human. Takes shape, and into which they resolve, and dissolve at the end to its pristine condition. Akasha, the matrix of all forms, cannot itself be perceived. It is experienced only as its gross effects or combinations.

Please visit the site: [ Particle physics of you***]

2) Prana: What works upon the Akasha and shapes it into all forms or manifestations is called prana.

“Prana” is vital energy and invisible to us. It is like Electric Power, which gives life to the machines and machines run, animates.  Same way this vital energy “Prana” animates us, the live bodies.  It runs the 1st layer the Physical body. This prana is external to further subtler energy which is Mind. The mind is so subtle and transparent, that mind can reflect consciousness. 

Prana (Breath) is verily the life of beings and hence it is called the Universal life. It is matter of common knowledge that life becomes possible only so long as the vital energy keeps the different organs of the organism alive. ” Though this vital life force makes the body animated and actions are performed but this is not the “Real Self“. This Prana separates life from death once the “Prana” leaves the body. Prana as a whole is composed of five Pranas (prana, Udana, vyana, samana, Apana). These pranas have their own importance to operate The Body perfectly. Through practice of Pranayama (pranayama is breathing exercise, part of Yoga as described in the ancient texts), we can transcend to the next layer. Pancha Kosha Tattva (Wisdom of five sheaths explains about the layers before and after Pranamaya kosha.  

Prana and Cosmic Vibration: 

To the Yogi, the whole Universe is his Body. The matter which composes his Body is the same that evolved the Universe. It is by the power of controlled prana; faith healing is possible due to certain state of vibration. Also, remote healing of others can be made by conveying similar vibration. It is also the secret of the power of the great men of the world. Thought is the highest expression of prana. Its expression is three-fold. Unconscious, Conscious and Super Conscious. All manipulations of the subtle forces of the body, which are different manifestations of the prana, give a push to the mind to assume vibrations, which reveal facts of subtle levels of existence. The whole Universe is one unbroken mass of matter in flux beaten into different states of vibration by the prana. When the action of prana on akasha is most subtle, it is mind. Mind is also one unbroken continuum. The Universal Mind. If one gets into that subtle vibration through the regulation of prana within oneself, then the whole universe is seen as composed of subtle vibrations of thought. Samadhi brings the individual’s mind to those vibrations which enable it to apprehend the facts of these subtle levels of existence. He who has grasped this Prana, has grasped the very core of cosmic life. Through Pranayama, Yogi controls the prana.

Conclusions: A Look: In the perspective of Modern Science:

Efficiency of the Human Body

SELECTED VERSES FROM ATMA BODHA

Recommended readings:

  1. Back to the Truth: 5000 years of ADVAITA by Dennis Waite. **
  2. THE TEN PRINCIPAL UPANISHADS: Translated by Shree Purohit** Swami and W.B.Yeats
  3. Brahma Sutra Bhasya of Sankaracharya: Translated by Swami Gambhirananda.**
  4. Commentary of Prashna Upanishad: By Swami Krishnananda.
  5. Prashna Upanishad By Swami GuruBhaktananda.
  6. EIGHT UPANISADS -VOL-1 with commentary of Sankaracharya, Translated by SWAMI GAMBHIRANANDA.
  7. THE TAITTIRIYA UPANISHAD: SHIKSHAVALLI-ANANDAVALLI-BHRIGUVALLI with Sri Shankara’s Commentary By Sri Swami Satchidanandera Saraswati.
  8. Information available on internet.

             It is my sincere request to the esteemed readers to share their opinion or queries if any. Suggestions to make the site attractive will be highly helpful for me. Readers are requested to read all the posts to have continuation of the topic from the beginning. My mail ID is:   arun7663@gmail.com 

In the House of Death: Story of a Boy-Nachiketas: Part-2

Introduction: Death is a Teacher:

Please read the first part of this story: The link is here: In the House of Death: Story of a Boy-Nachiketas: Part-1
This is the second part of the legendary story of a little boy Nachiketa, barely ten years old, son of Sage Vajasravasa , who meets Yama (The Death God in Hindu philosophy). Through conversation, Yama reveals Supreme Knowledge to Nachiketa, the knowledge of the nature of Self (Atman) and the path to gain Wisdom, for Moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death).
Text is lengthy, since all the dialogs are covered to get the Essence of Katha Upanishad. Readers are requested to read with patience. My efforts will be successful, if you like the content.

Yama: Lord of Death! In short, I address here as Death!

Death said: ” This question has been discussed by the gods, it is deep and difficult. Choose another gift, Nachiketa! Do not be hard. Do not be hard. Do not compel me to explain.

Nachiketa said: ” Death! you say that the gods have discussed it, that it is deep and difficult; what explanation can be good as yours?

Death tempts Nachiketa a bit more:

Death said: ” Take sons and grandsons, all long lived, cattle and horses, elephants and gold, take a great kingdom. Anything but this; wealth, long life, Nachiketa! Empire, anything whatever; satisfy the heart’s desire. Pleasure beyond reach, fine women with carriages, their musical instruments; mount beyond dreams; enjoy! But do not ask what lies beyond death”

Nachiketa said: “Destroyer of man! these things pass. Joy ends enjoyment, the longest life is short. keep those horses, keep singing and dancing, keep it all for yourself. Wealth cannot satisfy a man. If he but pleases you, master of all, he can live as long as he likes, get all he likes; but I will not change my gift. What man, subject to death and decay, getting the chance of Un decaying life, would still enjoy mere long life, thinking of copulation and beauty. Say where man goes after death; end all that discussion. This, which you have made so mysterious, is the only gift I will take.”

Two Paths in Human Life: ” The Good and the Pleasant” # SREYAS & PREYAS # Sreyas is Vidya(wisdom), and Preyas is Avidya (ignorance).

Death said: ” The good is one, the pleasant another; both command the Soul. Who follows the good, attains sanctity, who follows the pleasant, drops out of the race. Every man faces both. The mind of the wise man draws him to the good, the flesh of the fool drives him to the pleasant.

Lord Yama praises Nachiketas’s discrimination:

Death Continues: “Nachiketa! Having examined the pleasures, you have rejected them; turned from the vortex of life and death. Diverging roads: One called ignorance, the other Wisdom. Fools brag of their knowledge; proud, ignorant, dissolving, blind led by the blind, staggering to and fro. What can the money-maddened simpleton know of the future? ” This is the only world” cries he thinks there is no other, I kill him again and again. Some have never heard of the Self, some have heard of the Self, some have heard but cannot find Him. Who finds Him is a world’s wonder, who expounds Himis world’s wonder, who inherits Him from his Master is a world’s wonder. No man of common mind can teach Him; such men dispute one against another. But when the uncommon man speaks, dispute is over. Because the Self is a fine substance, He slips from the mind and deludes imagination. Beloved! logic brings no man to the Self. Yet when a wise man shows Him, He is found. Your longing eyes are turned towards reality.

Lord Yama’s attainment, when He was young:

Lord Yama continues: “Would that I had always such a pupil. because man cannot find the Eternal through passing pleasure, I have sought the Fire in these pleasures and, worshipping that alone, found the Eternal. Nachiketa! The fulfilment of all desire, the conquest of the world, freedom from fear, unlimited pleasure, magical power, all were yours, but you renounced them all, brave and wise man. ” The wise, meditating on God, concentrating their thought, discovering in the mouth of the cavern, deeper in the cavern, that Self, that ancient Self, difficult to imagine, more difficult to understand, pass beyond joy and sorrow. The man that, hearing from the Teacher and comprehending, distinguishes nature from the Self, goes to the source; that man attains joy, lives for ever in that joy. I think, Nachiketa! your gate of joy stands open.”

Nachiketa asked: ” what lies beyond right and wrong, beyond cause and effect, beyond past and future?”

The Goal of all Spiritual efforts- “OM”

Death said: “The word the Vedas extol, austerities proclaim, sanctities approach- that word is OM! ” That word is eternal Spirit, eternal distance, who knows it attains to his desire. ” That word is the ultimate foundation. who finds it is adored among the saints. “The Self knows all, is not born, does not die, is not the effect of any cause; is Eternal, self-existent, spelt AUM, perishable, ancient. How can the killing of the body kill Him? He who thinks that He kills, he who thinks that He is killed, is ignorant. He does not kill nor is He killed. ” The Self is lesser than the least, greater than the greatest. He lives in all hearts. When senses are at rest, free from desire, man finds him and mounts beyond sorrow. though sitting, he travels, though sleeping is everywhere. Who but I Death can understand that God is beyond joy and sorrow. Who knows the Self, bodiless among the embodied, unchanging among the changing, prevalent everywhere, goes beyond sorrow. “The Self is not known through discourse, splitting of hairs, learning however great; He comes to man He loves; takes that man’s body for His own. “The wicked man is restless, without concentration, without peace; how can he find Him, whatever his learning? He has made mere preachers and soldiers His food, death its condiment; how can a common man find Him?”

Let us put it mathematically: “smaller than the smallest, greater than the greatest”. Suppose n is a number, and we consider two loops. n=n+1 and n=n-1 in two different cases.
case 1. n+1> n; in the loop n=n+1, n approaches to ∞ (infinity)
case 2. n-1 < n; in the loop n=n-1, n approaches to zero; ε (epsilon) but ≠ 0. This example will just help to imagine the vastness of Brahman.
Planck length, the smallest in size = 1.6 x 10–35 meters. Planck time, the smallest time = 10−44seconds. Volume of the observable Universe is 3.566×1080 m3

Conclusion:

एतद्ध्येवाक्षरं ब्रह्म : = This word alone is verily “Saguna Brahman”. एतद्ध्येवाक्षरं परम्: = This word alone is verily the “Nirguna Brahman”. This syllable AUM(ॐ) is indeed Brahman. This syllable is the Highest, Eternal. Whosoever knows this syllable obtains all that he desires. एतदालम्बनं ज्ञात्वा ब्रह्मलोके महीयते : = This word is the ultimate foundation. Who finds it is adored among saints.

ब्रह्म` ~ “Brahman” : The Principal word in Upanishad: What is That?

Brahman: IT is That which is Absolute, fills all space, is complete in Itself, to which there is no second and which is continuously present in everything, in every being and everywhere. It is homogeneous in nature.

Important Reads related to this article

  1. The Four Great Sayings of Vedas:
  2. The Divine Art!!!
  3. THE WISDOM OF THE FIVE SHEATHS:

Conclusion:

Failure to comprehend the Essential Unity of Being is the Cause of Rebirth.

Why do we take rebirth or otherwise we can say we move from death to death. Why? It is due to wish of fulfilling desires that remain till death. But if we can realize the True Reality of the Self, the Eternal Self, from whom everything manifests, the desires get vanished, get dried up. All desires melt is the light of the Self. This is Nirvana. Nachiketas wanted to know, what happens to the Souls after death. Lord of Death ” Yama ” explained the reality through conversations between them. That is the Essence of Katha Upanishad.

Recommended readings:

  1. Back to the Truth: 5000 years of ADVAITA by Dennis Waite. **
  2. THE TEN PRINCIPAL UPANISHADS: Translated by Shree Purohit** Swami and W.B.Yeats
  3. Brahma Sutra Bhasya of Sankaracharya: Translated by Swami Gambhirananda.**
  4. Commentary of Katha Upanishad: By Swami Krishnananda.
  5. Katha Upanishad: By Swami GuruBhaktananda.
  6. EIGHT UPANISADS -VOL-1 with commentary of Sankaracharya, Translated by SWAMI GAMBHIRANANDA.
  7. THE TAITTIRIYA UPANISHAD: SHIKSHAVALLI-ANANDAVALLI-BHRIGUVALLI with Sri Shankara’s Commentary By Sri Swami Satchidanandera Saraswati.
  8. Commentary of Mandukya Upanishad: By Swami Krishnananda.
  9. MANDUKYA Upanishad By Swami GuruBhaktananda.
  10. A-U-M Awakening to Reality: By Dennis Waite***
  11. Panchadasi: Swami Vidyaranya:
  12. Information available on internet.

It is my sincere request to the esteemed readers to share their opinion or queries if any. Suggestions to make the site attractive will be highly helpful for me. Readers are requested to read all the posts to have continuation of the topic from the beginning. My mail ID is: arun7663@gmail.com

In the House of Death: Story of a Boy-Nachiketas: Part-1

Introduction:-

This is a legendary story of a little boy Nachiketas, barely ten years old, son of Sage Vajasravasa. Nachiketa meets Yama (The Death God in Hindu philosophy) and get answers of his question: ‘What is Death?”

Through conversation, Lord Yama reveals “Supreme Knowledge” to Nachiketa, the knowledge of the nature Atman and the path to gain Wisdom,  Moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death).

Sage Vajasravasa wished to perform a sacrifice called Vishwajit (Sarva Dakshina), meaning victory over the whole universe. Through such sacrifice, the performer aims to gain the fruit of gaining a higher world and enjoy the pleasures there. (Vajasrava means a Giver). The boy faced wrath of his father after completion of sacrificial fire , when he found there was fault in the part of his father. As such the boy was offered to Yama, by his father in anger.

Finally he got the desired knowledge from Yama when he exhibited “Mumukshautva” (intense desire to seek Wisdom) and Vairagya(dispassion for all worldly pleasures).

The Story in details:-

Sage Vajasravasa, desiring Heaven, rewards, performed the Visvajit sacrifice, in which he gave away all his property as gift[Dakshina]. He had a son by name Nachiketa.

Gifts not worth the name:

When the gifts were being distributed, Nachiketa, who was still a boy said to himself: Joyless, surely, are the worlds to which he goes who gives away cows no longer able to drink, to eat. to give milk, or to calve. He went to his father and said: Father! To whom will you give me? Nachiketa repeated this question second and a third time. At last his father got angry and replied: ‘Unto death I offer you’.

Nachiketa then proceeded to meet the king of Death: “Yama”

Nachiketas at the door of Death

Nachiketa thought: whether I die now or later matters a little. What purpose of the King of Death will my father serve today by thus giving me away to Death? Nachiketa said: Think of those who went before, those that will come after. Man dies and born again like a blade of grass. A mortal ripens like a corn and corn springs up again.

"Man dies and is born again like a blade of grass. This means seed grows only to fall and fall only to grow. This is the cycle of human life because birth and death are correlatives."

Lord Yama’s Instructions on Hospitality: 

Nachiketa went into the forest and sat in meditation within the house of Death. Death king Yama was out of his kingdom on his job. When Death appeared his servant said: Lord! when a holy man enters a house as guest it is as if fire has entered. The wise man cools him down. So bring him water O king of Death!

If a holy man comes into fool’s house and is given nothing, the fool’s family, public and private life, ambitions, reputation, property, hopes alliances, all suffer. Thereupon Lord Yama said to Nachiketa: ‘A guest should be respected. You have dwelt in my house three nights without eating; I bow to you O holy Boy! Take from me three boons[gifts]. Choose now three boons, one for each night, O Brahmin! may all be well with me’!

The First Boon: 

Nachiketa said: ‘O Death! may Gautama, my father, be calm, cheerful and free from anger toward me! may he recognise me and greet me when I shall have been sent home by you! This I choose as the first of three boons’.

Death grants the first boon!

King of Death said:  ‘I will so arrange things, that your father, will recognise and love you as before and he will sleep peacefully at night and his grudge against you will vanish’.

The Second Boon: 

Nachiketa said: ‘ There is no fear in the kingdom of Heaven, because you are not there, nobody there is afraid of old age. man is beyond hunger, thirst and sorrow. You know, O Death! Please explain me what Fire leads to Heaven, show it, I am full of faith. I ask this as my second boon.’

Death said: ‘ I will explain it, listen! find the rock and conquer unmeasured worlds. Listen, for this came out of cavern.’

Death grants the second boon! 

Yama told him that out of Fire comes this world, what bricks and how many go to the alter, how best to build it. Nachiketa repeated all. Death encouraged ran on. I give you another gift. This fire shall be called by your name. Count the links of the chain: 

*Worship the triple  Fire: 1) Knowledge, 2) Meditation, and 3) practice.

*The triple process: 1) Evidence, 2) Inference, and 3) Experience.

* The triple duty: 1) Study, 2) Concentration, and 3) Renunciation.

Understand that everything comes from Brahman. That Brahman alone is sought and found, attain everlasting peace; mount beyond Birth and Death.

***Here, Fire means Energy-

King of Death continued: ‘ When man understands himself, understands Universal self, the union of the two, kindles the triple Fire, offers the sacrifice; then shall he, though still on Earth, break the bonds of Death, beyond sorrow, mount into Heaven.[ **This is liberation, while living on Earth]

The Nachiketa Agni[Fire]:

The perfect sacrifice is explained by Yama.

 Out of fire arises all that exists in the Universe. Mastering this, one gains mastery over any field of human activity, and acquires whatever one desires in terms of worldly prosperity and power. However, it is all within the transitory realm; all gains here are impermanent. Nachiketas very attentively listened and was able to follow what was said. He repeated all that Yama explained. Being happy with Nachiketas, Yama encouraged and said " I will give you another gift. This fire shall be called by your name." And it is known as "Nachiketas Fire". 

‘The Fire that leads to heaven is your second gift, Nachiketa! It shall be named after you. Now choose the third gift.’

The Third Boon: 

The secret of Death!!!

Nachiketa said: ‘Some say that when man dies he continues to exist, others say that he does not. Explain, and that shall be my third gift.’

It is too difficult for you Nachiketa!

Death said: ‘ This question has been discussed by the gods, it is deep and difficult. choose another gift, Nachiketa! Do not be so hard. Do not compel me to explain.

Nachiketa said: ‘Indeed on this matter, even by the gods doubts have been entertained. You also say, O Death, that this principle is not truly comprehendible easily. But a teacher like you can explain this. Another such teacher I shall never find. therefore, I have no option before me but this. No other boon equal to this there be for me to choose!

To continue in the next part….

Third gift was indeed granted and it is a great part of the story, where the words of wisdom are the main essence. To be published in the second part, or else it will be a very lengthy blog.

Interested readers may go through the following post

Essence of Katha Upanishad :Part 4C of 4: -The Concluding Part-

*** This story is from Katha Upanishad. Kathopanishad is part of Krishna Yajurveda and consists of two Chapters. Each Chapter has three sections. This Upanishad is a favourite one in all ages and it is placed in third position in the list of Ten Principal Upanishads.

Conclusion:-

Through this dialogue between Nachiketa and Lord of Death, the response of Death has to be observed minutely! Every one is interested to know the secret of Death! But what are the conditions that an aspirant should posses to know the secret. That discussion proceeds from here onwards.

NEXT PART !!..COMING SOON…😊🙏❤️

Brain Waves & Meditation on OM[AUM]: An insight

Introduction: –

Please go through this small content which is purely based on my experience. Just as it is: Thought of sharing my experience. Please spare few minutes. 🙏😊❤️

IMPORTANCE OF MEDITATION:

Since ancient time function of brain and meditation have been linked.

We can understand the relationship between brain activity and meditation by the use of modern technology such as EEG. Basically, we are all vibrational beings living in the vibrational universe.

Frequency of vibration determines our experience of reality. The fundamental elements of our physical vibrations are known as brainwave frequencies. Frequencies are measured in Hertz. In brain mapping the frequencies are measured in Hertz which are typically in the range between 0.5 to 60Hertz. According to studies, published in different websites, during meditation a discernible brainwave patterns seen on EEG.

In neuroscience, there are five distinct brain wave frequencies, known as Alpha, Beta, Theta, Delta and Gamma.

Let us know the function of brainwave frequencies, which affect our daily life following vibrational patterns are described in brief.

Delta (0.5-3.0 Hz): The deep sleep Wave.

The Delta frequency is the slowest of the frequencies and it is experienced in deep, dreamless sleep and in very deep, transcendental, meditation where awareness is completely detached. Delta is the realm of unconscious mind. It is the Gateway to the Universal mind.

Alpha (7.5-14 Hz): The Deep Relaxation wave:

Alpha brain waves are present in deep relaxation with the eyes usually closed and while daydreaming or during light meditation. It is an optimal time to program the mind for success. It is the Gateway to the Subconscious mind. It heightens imagination, visualization, memory, learning and concentration. It lies at the base of consciousness of human mind.

Theta (4-7.5 Hz): The Light Meditation and Sleeping Wave.

Theta brain waves are present during deep meditation and light sleep including REM dream state. It is the realm of Subconscious mind. It is also known as twilight state as it is normally experienced between Alpha (drift off to sleep) and Delta (arise from deep sleep).A sense of deep spiritual connection and with the Universe can be experienced at Theta. Voice of Theta is silence.

Beta(14-40Hz): The waking Consciousness and Reasoning wave.

Beta brain waves are associated with normal waking consciousness and a heightened state of alertness, logic and critical reasoning. Daily activities are performed in this state. Too much Beta can translate into stress, anxiety and restlessness. The voice of Beta is the little nagging chatterbox of inner critic.

Gamma(40-80Hz): The Insight Wave.

This range is recently discovered. Little is known about this state of mind. Gamma waves with the highest frequency can have a frequency of anywhere between 25 and 100 Hz. Initial research shows that Gamma waves are associated with bursts of insight and high level information processing. Gamma brain waves are fastest brainwave frequency with smallest amplitude. Feelings of Blessings with peak concentration has been reported by experienced meditators.

Neuroscientists believe that gamma waves are able to link information from all parts of the brain-the gamma wave originates in the thalamus and moves back of the brain to the front and back again @40Hz.This is the brainwave state of that feeling that anything can be done.

Now we may draw analogy of the above topic with Mandukya Upanishads, which is shortest among all Upanishads. According to the Mandukya Upanishad, four conditions of Spirit can be described as below.

1)Waking condition: Perception turned outward.

2)Mental condition: Perception turned inward, known as dreaming condition. Self enjoys subtle matter.

3)Deep sleep condition: No desire, no dream. This is intellectual condition. Because of union with Self and his unbroken knowledge, one feels joy. He knows joy. His mind is illuminated.

ॐ~AUM

A~ Waking

U~ Dreaming

M~ Deep Sleep

Turiya: The Fourth condition of the Self which can be achieved through deep meditation that corresponds to “OM” as ONE, invisible Word. Self is Whole and beyond bargain.

The world disappears in HIM. SELF is one without a second.

This condition is known as #Turiya.

Please read Mandukya Upanishad in two parts to understand the topic which you will find in line with Brain waves pattern. Links are here:

1:MaNDukya Upanishad- The Nature of OM: – Part-1

2:MaNDukya Upanishad- The Nature of OM: – Part-2

Any decrease in mind clutter is an increase in our vibrational connection to higher Consciousness.

MaNDukya Upanishad- The Nature of OM: – Part-2

Introduction:

Mandukya Upanishad belongs to Atharva Veda. It is the shortest of all the Upanishads with only 12 verses and placed in the 6th position in the list of Ten Principal Upanishads.

This Upanishad teaches the significance of the sacred syllable ॐ~AUM (OM) and it correlates with four states of Consciousness. It describes the Turiya state, the state of transcendental Consciousness in which all the divisions and Duality disappears. The SELF alone exists in its pure state.

Among the Upanishads, the “Mandukya” may be regarded as the most important. It is said : ” mandukyam ekam eva alam mumukshunam vimuktaye”. For the liberation from bondage, for a seeker, the maNDukya alone is sufficient.

Upon meditating on the Mystic Syllable OM [AUM], mind can be trained to achieve freedom gradually to attain ultimate Reality.

Please read my previous post on Mandukya Upanishad, Part-1, where I have discussed up to 7th mantra out of total twelve mantras. 7th mantra is most important among the Vedic scriptures. This mantra describes the nature of Absolute reality~ Brahman. Please read first part of the post. Link is here:-

In this post, I will discuss the last five Mantras [from 8th mantra to 12th mantra].

माण्डूक्योपनिषत्

॥ अथ माण्डूक्योपनिषत् ॥

Mantra-8:- ॐ~AUM (OM) with four quarters:

“सोऽयमात्माऽध्यक्षरमोंकारोऽधिमात्रं पादा मात्रा मात्राश्च पादा अकार उकारो मकार इति “॥ ८॥

“so.ayamAtma.sdhyakSharamo~NkAro-adhimAtram pAdA mAtramAtrAshcha pAdA akAra ukAro makAra iti” – [8]

“The same Atman, (which has been described in 7th Mantra as having four quarters) is again, AUM, from the point of view of the syllables. The “AUM “with parts is viewed from the stand point of sound. The quarters the letters and the letters are the quarters. The letters here are A, U and M”.

According to Shankara, 7th mantra have concentrated on the abhidheya meaning ‘that which is being spoken of’, i.e. the thing named or denoted. OM [AUM], therefore, is effectively the abhidhAna-name or appellation. This means that Atman is equated to OM in the linguistic sense. The letters constituting OM are A, U and M.
Mantra-9:- The first mAtra of OM-akAraH: the letter “A” : vaishvAnara- the waking state.

“जागरितस्थानो वैश्वानरोऽकारः प्रथमा मात्राऽऽप्तेरादिमत्त्वाद् वाऽऽप्नोति ह वै सर्वान् कामानादिश्च भवति य एवं वेद “॥ ९॥

“jAgaritasthAno vaishvAnaro-akArah prathamAmAtra-a-apteraadimattvaadvA-a-apnoti ha vai sarvAnkAmAnAdishcha bhavati ya evaM veda”.-[9]

“He who is VaishvAnara, having for its sphere of activity the waking state is A, the first letter of AUM, on account of its all-pervasiveness or on account of being the first. One who knows this attains the fulfilment of all desires and becomes the first of all”.

prathamA mAtra: – The first mAtra of OM-akAraH: the letter “A” vaishvAnara- the waking state. AdimatvatvAt: being the first. Pervasiveness-“A” which pervades all sounds. “A” is the fundamental sound. We cannot speak any word without opening the mouth and the sound thus produced is “A”. We can regard this sound as pervading every other sound. Similarly, we regard the waking state as having primacy. We only know of the existence of the dream state and deep sleep states when we are at waking state. Obviously, we have to be awake in order to pursue this enquiry and to attain enlightenment.

In the scripture VaishvAnara is said to pervade the whole of the Universe. In Bhagavad-Gita, Ch10.33, Lord Krishna says: ” I am the letter “A”, describing himself as Ishwara. This mantra is advocating Upasana on OM, with specific attention on the first letter “A”.

One who understands this, gets all he wants; becomes leader among men.

Mantra-10:- The letter “U”, the second mAtra of OM is “taijasa”, the dream state

“स्वप्नस्थानस्तैजस उकारो द्वितीया मात्रोत्कर्षाद् उभयत्वाद्वोत्कर्षति ह वै ज्ञानसन्ततिं समानश्च भवति नास्याब्रह्मवित्कुले भवति य एवं वेद” ॥ १०॥ 

“svapnasthAnastijasa ukAro dvitIyAmAtrotkarShAdubhayatvAdvotkarShati ha vai j~nAnasantati-nsamAnashcha bhavati nAsyaabrahmavitkule bhavAti va evaM veda” -[10]

“The dreaming condition [taijasa], called mental condition, corresponds to the second letter “U”. It upholds; stands between waking and sleeping. He who understands, upholds the tradition of Spiritual knowledge. looks upon everything with an impartial eye. No one ignorant of Brahman is born into his family”.

The letter “U”, the second mAtra of OM is “taijasa”, the dream state, because both are regarded as superior and also are in the middle of their respective series. Whosoever knows this will become superior in knowledge and accepted by all. All members of his family will be wise. As a matter of fact, A being the first of all sounds is superior to all letters. But “U” coming after “A” may be said superior to “A” in all indirect way. as such the subtle taijasa is regarded as superior to vishva because subtle is superior to gross. Gross can be considered as the effect of the subtle cause. Gross equates to matter, subtle to energy. Mind is superior to physical body. State of mind makes us superior to the animals. Gross body returns to earth on death, but the subtle and causal body remains present for rebirth. 

Note:- At the macrocosmic level, at the end of the Universe[Pralaya], the entire gross creation [Virat] is subsumed into Hiranyagarbha. 

Mantra-11:- Deep sleep, the intellectual condition, called “Prajna” corresponds to the third letter “M”.

“सुषुप्तस्थानः प्राज्ञो मकारस्तृतीया मात्रा मितेरपीतेर्वा मिनोति ह वा इदꣳ सर्वमपीतिश्च भवति य एवं वेद” ॥ ११॥

“suShuptassthAnaH prAj~no makArastRRitIyA mAtra meterapItervA minoti havA idaM sarvamapItishcha bhavati ya evaM veda”-[11]

“Undreaming sleep, called the intellectual condition [prAj~no], corresponds to the third letter “M”. It weighs and unites. he who understands, weighs the world; rejects; unites himself with the cause”.-[11]

Sankara Explains:-

One who is prAj~no associated with deep sleep is “M” , the third letter{sound) of AUM. The key word “miti” in the mantra needs to be understood. “miti” means measure. As food grains are measured in utensils before use and that is filled again when it is reused on regular basis, which means grains reappear again. similarly, at individual level, the waking and dream states as though disappear in deep sleep, emerge again sometime later. Similarly, at the macrocosmic level, the gross[Virat] and subtle[Hiranyagarbha] worlds disappear at the end of creation into the causal state(Ishwara~antaryamin) and reappear at the next creation. This is analogous to the scientific theory of “Big-Bang & Big-Crunch”. In the same manner, while chanting OM (AUM), the sound “A” and “U” disappear when we close mouth and only sound “M” remains. And the sound “A” and “U” reappear again when the mouth is opened for chanting AUM. waking and dream states are merged in deep sleep. As we have seen in mantra-4 of this Upanishad, that they[ A= Vishva & U= Taijasa] become “mass of consciousness” (prajnanaghana)  in M (deep sleep state).

In deep sleep, all perceptions and cognitions converge into a single mode of the mind: It becomes mass of Consciousness[ ekibhutah]. There is no modifications of the mind[ due to absence of Vrittis].

The happiness of deep sleep is greater than all other forms of happiness. 

Therefore one who knows this, comprehends the real nature of the Universe. He realises himself as Atman and the cause of the Universe i.e. Ishwara.

Mantra-12:- “Amaatra”- The fourth letter: “Turiya”

“अमात्रश्चतुर्थोऽव्यवहार्यः प्रपञ्चोपशमः शिवोऽद्वैत एवमोंकार आत्मैव संविशत्यात्मनाऽऽत्मानं य एवं वेद “॥ १२॥

“amAtrashchaturtho-avyavahAryaH prapa~nchopashamaHshivo-Advaitaevamo~NkAra-atmaiva saMvishatyAtmanA-a-AtmaM ya evaM veda ya evaMveda”-[12]

“The fourth conditioned of the Self corresponds to OM as one, indivisible word. He is whole; beyond bargain. The world disappears in Him. He is the good; the one without a second. Thus OM is nothing but Self. He who understands, with the help of personal self, merges himself into the impersonal Self.”

The part less “OM” is the fourth quarter; It is beyond all conventional dealings; It is the limit of the negation of the phenomenal world. It is all- Auspicious, all-Blissful; It is One without a second; the Non-Dual Reality; This OM is verily the same as the Atman or Self within. The Self realises Itself through the Self; He who knows thus, merges himself  into the impersonal Self.

Conclusion:-

A) Individually( for Jiva), the waking consciousness is called Vishva. It is called Taijasa in dream and Prajna in deep sleep state. Correspondingly, from the view of Cosmic level, these are: Virat in waking, Hiranyagarbha in dreaming and Ishwara in deep sleep. 

B) The relationship between individual and the cosmic, between Vishva & Virat, Taijasa & Hiranyagarbha, Prajna & Ishwara is integral part of ONE [ Non-Dual Consciousness]. This realisation will put Jiva in Ishwratwa and make it  Omnipresent, Omniscient and Omnipotent.

C) The knower of Brahman, who has realised the highest Truth, will enter into the Self by burning away the Third state of latency[ the dormant Vasanas~ (causal) are burnt]. Henceforth, he is not born again, as there are no Karmas to cause a further birth.

D) AUM is realised when the illusion of DUALITY vanishes.

Recommended readings:

  1. Back to the Truth: 5000 years of ADVAITA by Dennis Waite.**
  2. THE TEN PRINCIPAL UPANISHADS: Translated by Shree Purohit** Swami and W.B.Yeats
  3. Brahma Sutra Bhasya of Sankaracharya: Translated by Swami Gambhirananda.**
  4. Commentary of Mandukya Upanishad: By Swami Krishnananda.
  5. MANDUKYA Upanishad By Swami GuruBhaktananda.
  6. The Mandukya Upanishad: with Gaudapada’s Karika and Sankara’s commentary: By swami Nikhilananda
  7. EIGHT UPANISADS -VOL-1 with commentary of Sankaracharya, Translated by SWAMI GAMBHIRANANDA.
  8. THE TAITTIRIYA UPANISHAD: SHIKSHAVALLI-ANANDAVALLI-BHRIGUVALLI with Sri Shankara’s Commentary By Sri Swami Satchidanandera Saraswati.
  9. A-U-M Awakening to Reality : By Dennis Waite***
  10. Information available on internet.

             It is my sincere request to the esteemed readers to share their opinion or queries if any. Suggestions to make the site attractive will be highly helpful for me. Readers are requested to read all the posts to have continuation of the topic from the beginning. My mail ID is :   arun7663@gmail.com 

A Brief Note on Ten Principal Upanishads.

Introduction:-

One of the three basic Texts of Vedanta is “Upanishad”. Other two are Bhagavad-Gita and Brahma-Sutra. Together these three Texts constitute “Prasthana Traya”: known as Triple canon of Vedanta. Upanishads constitute the revealed Texts, known as “Sruti Prasthana”. Vedanta is the name given to them because they are End means concluding part of the Veda. Bhagavad-Gita is “Smriti-Prasthana”, which occupies an unique place in Vedantic tradition. A popular verse compares the Upanishads to the cows, The Bhagavad-Gita to the milk, Sri Krishna to the milk man, Arjuna, the Pandava Hero to the calf and the wise people to the partakers of the milk. The third of the canonical text is “Brahma-Sutra” which is regarded as “Naya-Prasthana”.

“samasta-vedanta-sarasangraha-bhutam”

In this post we will discuss about Upanishads in brief:

Salient features on Upanishads:

  • Upanishad = Upa + Nishad: Spiritual knowledge obtained by disciples sitting near or at the feet of The Guru [ means the Teacher].
  • Scholar says that Upanishads were composed during 4000-5000 BC. Some says: 2000-14000BC.
  • Nowhere it is mentioned about any author n the Upanishads. No date of origin can be fixed.
  • Teachings were imparted in stillness, noise free environment like forests where tranquillity can not be disturbed. Those Upanishads are known as Aranyaka and these were specially intended for Vanaprastha.
  • Teachings were transmitted orally and hence called as “SRUTI”.
  • Value of Upanishad for Mankind is for all time, all places and all ages. Lessons in Scriptures are very practical and applicable for modern world as it was for Indo-Aryan period.
  • Upanishads were transported to western countries initially through Persian translation[1700 AD].
  • French scholar Anquetil Duperron brought a copy of manuscript from Persia to France. Later on it was translated in French and Latin.
  • First English translation was made by Raja Ram Mohan Roy. [1775-1833].
  • Every Upanishad begins with a Peace mantra.(shanti path).
  • There are 108 Upanishads. Among them 10 Upanishads are considered as Principal Upanishads.
  • Who Am I? What is this Universe? Whence and how we are born? What is mortality or Immortality? What is Atman or Brahman? What is liberation(from cycle of birth)? What is death?- All questions have answers in Upanishads. 

The Ten Principal Upanishads are:

1) IshaVasya Upanishad: Occurs in the Samhita portion of  Shukla Yajur Veda.

2) Kena Upanishad:  It is embedded inside the last section of the Talavakara Brahmanam of the Samaveda.

3) Katha Upanishad: Belongs to Katha Branch of Krishna Yajurveda. 

4) Prashna Upanishad: Comes from the Brahmana portion of the Atharva Veda, belonging to Pippalada Sakha.

5) Mundaka Upanishad: It is Part of Atharva Veda.

6) Mandukya Upanishad: The Mandukya Upanishad, belongs to Atharva Veda. It is the shortest of all the Upanishads with 12 verses and placed in the 6th position in the list of Ten Principal Upanishads.

7) Taittiriya Upanishad: It is a part of the Krishna Yajur Veda and placed in the seventh position in the list of Ten Principal Upanishad.

8) Aitareya Upanishad: Belongs to Aitareya Aranyaka**(Teachings in the forest), part of Rig-Veda.

9) ChAndogya Upanishad: It is part of ChAndogya Brahmana of the Sama Veda

10) BRRihadAraNyaka Upanishad: It forms the fourteenth Kanda of Satapatha Brahmana of “Shukla Yajurveda.” This is the biggest one.

ब्रह्म` ~ “Brahman” : The Principal word in Upanishad: What is It?

First of all, we need to know the true meaning of “Brahman” [ब्रह्म`]

Brahman: IT is That which is Absolute, fills all space, is complete in Itself, to which there is no second and which is continuously present in everything, in every being and everywhere. It is homogeneous in nature.

The word ब्रह्म` “Brahman” will be used repeatedly. Meaning of Brahman is VAST. This is to be noted here that the word “Brahman” does not refer to any Cast , Creed or Sect. According to Vedanta the word ” Brahman” has been derived from the root word “brh” which means growing or expanding and suffix “man” added to it signifies absence of limitations. In Vedanta, the word Brahman is a neuter gender and hence it is referred as pronoun ” That”. It is very difficult to describe Brahman, which is ultimately indefinable, indescribable, and utterly beyond all human comprehension. Brahman cannot be described through senses alone. Vedanta has however taught us how to realize Brahman which is “Supreme Consciousness”. 

 The oneness of Soul (Jiva~Atman) and GOD (Param Atman), the ultimate Truth is the principal essence of all Upanishads. 

Please visit my website for more details. https://arunsingha.in

 

Pictures shown below are relevant to the Text of Upanishads.

A special note On International Yoga Day-2022:

Introduction: 

The word “YOGA” has been derived from the Sanskrit word “YUJ”. This means “to Connect or to Combine”. In very simple word it is “UNION”. 

∪ ⇒ Union: Union with Source(Brahman/ Purusha)

∑ ⇒ Summation{Of All that we perceive or do not perceive }

∫ ⇒ Integral[ Non-Dual]

+ ⇒ Add [ All good qualities]

There are multiple paths for Union. After deep studies of Vedanta (ten Principle Upanishads) and Patanjali Yoga Sutras, I have found and adopted two easy paths to achieve my goals.

1) Vedantic Approach( Advaita- Non-Dualism)

2) Yogic Approach ( Patanjali Yoga sutras)

Vedantic Approach:

What should be my (our) goal?

Answer: To be United with Supreme[ The absolute “Brahman”] : Complete cessation of sufferings and attainment of Bliss is the goal of everyone.

” Attyantika Dukshya Nivritti, Paramananda praptyachya”. 

Most important condition to remove sufferings is “fearlessness”.

A vision of Oneness is the sole condition that brings fearlessness.

There is nothing to fear. Everything is Self-created. HE( The Absolute) is that Essence, by drinking which, man rejoices. That Self is the sole giver of Joy (Bliss). When man finds invisible, nameless, homeless, shapeless, he is no longer terrified. He becomes free from fear who attains such Oneness. But if the slightest ” Otherness” is allowed to enter then he is smitten with fear. That man, thinking himself wise, becomes terrified. ” 

The knower of Brahman reaches the Supreme”.

How to Know Brahman?

Knowledge of Brahman can not be gathered by mere reasoning. Knowledge can be attained through intuition or revelation. Intuition is the final result of the enquiry into Brahman. There are three stages which are very essential for progressing in this path. Three stages are as below:

Following are the steps: 

1.Sravana :  Listening to the teachings of the sages on Vedanta. Now instead of Sravana, we can use the word Study of Vedanta, because Sravana was the practice during early Vedic period as no method of writing existed.

2.Manana : This stage is the reflection on the teachings. This means thinking about what has been heard and subjecting that into a reason based on experience gained.

3.Nididhyasana : Stage of meditation on the truth [MahaVakyas]. It is the culmination of the practice of Sravana and Manana. BRRihadAraNyaka Upanishad says  on Nididhyasana. ” The Self , my dear Maitreyi, should be realized-should be heard of , reflected on and meditated upon; by the realization of the self, my dear”.

Sravana, Manana, Nididhyasana leads us to intuition (aparoksha anubhuti). In this way, “Brahma Kara Vritti ” is generated from ” Sattvic anta Karana ”  This ” Brahma Kara Vritti” destroys the mula-Avidya or primitive ignorance which is the root cause of all bondage, births and deaths.

When this ignorance or veil is removed, Brahman which is Self effulgent reveals itself in its pristine glory and splendour. 

Now the Text is for whom?

 The Vedanta is for the person who is competent to understand and study sastras(Scriptures) ,has tranquil mind, with required attributes as described in Vedanta.

After attainment of certain preliminary qualifications which are known as four salvations(Sadhana Chatustaya) ,one can progress towards the direction of knowing Brahman.

Four salvations are:

  1. “Nitya-anitya-vastuveveka” which means discrimination between the eternal and non eternal.
  2. ” IhamutrarthaphalabhogaViraga” : Indifference to the joys in this life or in in Heaven, and of the fruits of one’s action.
  3. ” Shatsampat” : Six fold virtues that are : i) Sama (Control of mind), ii) Dama ( Control of senses),iii) Uparati (Cessation from worldly enjoyments), iv) Titiksha ( Endurance of pleasure and pain, heat and cold), v) Sraddha (Faith), vi) Samadhana (Deep concentration).
  4. “Mumukshautva” (Desire for liberation).

Why one should enquire Brahman? Why?

Most of the religions believe that life in earth or life in heaven are attained on the basis of one’s virtuous deeds(“KARMA”) which is transient. But once you know Brahman, you will enjoy everlasting bliss and immortality.

Knowledge of Brahman destroys ignorance which is the root cause of all sufferings. 

” Sastrayonitvadhikaranam” : Brahman is realisable only through the scriptures. The scripter is the source of right knowledge.  Through scripture only we get a comprehensive understanding of the nature of Brahman. Brahman is formless, colourless, attribute less. Hence it can not be grasped by the senses alone. Brahman is ONE, infinite and without second.

THE FOUR GREAT VEDIC STATEMENTS

Yogic Approach: Ashtanga Yoga: Patanjali Yoga sutras:

Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

According to Maharshi Patanjali , Ashtanga Yoga is  not limited to any class, place, time and circumstances.

This path of Yoga is Universal. 

The essence of Patanjali’s Yoga sutra is in the second sutra(1.2):

” yogashchittavrittinirodhah” [sutra-1.2] : Yoga is for the control of thought-waves in the mind. To still the fluctuating mind.

“Yogas citta-vritti-nirodah” which literary means “Yoga is the stilling of the modifications of the mind”.

Principal Teachings of Yoga Sutras: 

“Ashtanga Yoga” : Eight limbs of Yoga are as follows.[8 steps]

All the steps are scientifically designed. That is the specialty of Ashtanga Yoga. If one has followed all the steps properly, then only Dhyana is possible

1. Yama – Restraints.

2. Niyama – Observances.

3. Asana -Physical postures.

4. Pranayama – Control of Prana (Breathing control).

5. Pratyahara – Withdrawal of the senses.

6. Dharana – Concentration

7. Dhyana – Meditation.

8. Samadhi – Absorption.  

Details of Each of the Limbs of Yoga:

Yama: The first “anga” 

This consists of prohibitions against unethical deeds. These are basically restraints. Following are to be noted: 

  • Ahimsa-Non violence:  Non-violence truly  meant here as  to refrain from causing harm , showing anger , being harsh to others including self. Love  must be unconditional and universal. At the same time we must love ourselves equally.                                                                             
  • Satya-Truthfulness: : This means, on being firmly established in truthfulness ,the Yogi gets the power of attaining for himself  the fruits of work without the work . 
  • Asteya-Non-stealing: With the establishment of virtues like honesty, aspirant develops an intuitive awareness.                                      
    Brahmacharya- celibacy:  Right use of energy: sutra 2.38 says“ Brahmacharya pratisthayam viryalabhah”. It is about controlled and disciplined sex. 
  • Aparigraha- non possessing, non accumulation: sutra 2.37: ” Aparigraha sthairye janmakathamta sambodhah”  which means : On becoming steady in non-possessiveness, there arises the knowledge of how and from where is it generated. 

Niyama: Second  limb (“anga” )

It is composed of some injunctions to develop various ethical virtues. Following are the components of Niyama.

  • Saucha (cleanliness) :  Purity of body and mind.
  • Santosha ( Contentment): To keep mind away from dwelling in the past or future. One should not  regret on missed opportunities and also need not worry about future. Contentment is  the way to live in present moment, NOW.    
  • Tapas (discipline, austerity etc.) : Mandates spiritual disciplines.  A state of spiritual maturity.  With the practice of austerity, all kinds of impurities are removed from body and mind. 
  • Svadhyaya ( study of self and sacred texts): This sutra teaches for self-observation, study of scriptures, recitation of mantras and union  with the desired deity ( Ishta devata).                                                                     
  • Isvara Pranidhana (Total surrender to the Supreme being):   Dedicated services for the welfare of others including mankind, animal kind, plants and nature.               

The third anga ” Asana”

It is important part of Ashtanga Yoga. The importance is to make spine held erect and relaxed with the three upper parts of the body, the chest, the neck and the head in a straight line. This is required for nerve currents to channelize for further improvement in concentration.

The object of  Yoga is to make a man rise above body consciousness. In Patanjali Yoga sutra, it is simply stated that asanas should be stable and comfortable for meditation.

The fourth anga “pranayama” 

Commonly believed as control of breath but scholars says this is actually control of Universal Energy. The Prana  moves the whole Universe. Prana is believed to be a cosmic energy. It is prana vibrating at the beginning of cosmic cycle that shapes akasha (space) out of which all energies are evolved. Biological functions of all kinds are performed by this vital energy. The knowledge and control of this prana is known as pranayama.

Practice of pranayama is done after mastering asana. When pranayama is practiced under the guidance of right “Guru” (Teacher), one can have control over prana and it becomes possible to feel the vibrations which helps attaining higher insight. Thereby ,the power generated will help the nerves in getting optimum functions. It is believed that Pranic healing, faith healing etc. are  the results of doing pranayama. 

Pratyahara” : the fifth anga.

“Pratyahara”  : Withdrawals of senses:  It helps in attaining a mind without fluctuations, since withdrawals of senses bind the mind to a fixed point. It is impossible to concentrate unless the mind is purified.  Pratyahara gives our mind a moment to not evaluate and teaches us to be free from any reactions developed by senses. 

Sixth anga: Dharana- Concentration: 

“deshabandhashchittasya”  => this suggests to confine mind in a territory, a very limited space, which disallows movements of mind. That is called “Dharana”.

One pointed attention: Dharana is the process of fixing the attention of mind to a certain point. That may be any object of concentration (internal or external), sound, deity or  noble idea for the benefit of creation. After successful practices of first five limbs, one becomes ready for Dharana. 

Dharana, Dhyana & Samadhi: These three limbs together lead aspirants to the ultimate goal. 

If the fourfold qualities are dealt with right actions, then the practitioner of Yoga will overcome the distractions of mind. These are : 1. friendliness towards happiness, 2. compassion towards misery,  3. rejoicing for virtues and 4. indifference to vices.  With such preparation and practice, “Dharana” comes much more easily and naturally. 

 Seventh Anga: Dhyana- meditation: 

Definition : Dhyana:  The extension and lengthening of Dharana is Dhyana. Dharana continued without interruption is Dhyana. One has to change his or her way of life to reach unto this stage of Dhyana (concentration). Let us look into sutra 3.2 again for further analysis.  “tatra pratyayaikatanata dhyanam” :  If we now split the sloka like this =>>  tatra + pratyaya +ekatanata, then  tatra => means ” in that place” which refers to “desha” as mentioned in sutra 3.1. pratyaya=> means total content of mind which occupies the field of consciousness at a particular time.  Mind remains in continuous contact in Dharana.                        Ekatanata=> means extending continuously without interruption. Before practicing Samadhi, this kind of un interrupted continuous Dhyana is essential for the aspirant. 

Therefore let us keep in mind that when Dharana is stretched for a long period it becomes Dhyana. In other words elongated condition of Dharana is Dhyana.

Samadhi– The state of Cosmic Consciousness- the 8th anga: 

sutra 3.3: "tad evarthamatranirbhasan svaroopashoonyam iva samadhih" means=> In that absolute state, then there is no meditator or the thing that is meditating upon. What remains only is the meditation, that is called samadhi. 

When Dhyana enters into Samadhi , the Gate which leads into the world of realities opens. Samadhi means a state of mind which through the practice of Dharana and Dhyana has become so  completely tranquil and the person meditating  is so absorbed that the he or she even forgets own existence.

Let us analyse the word “svaroopashoonyam”  of sutra 3.3. ” svaroopa” + shoonyam”  means that ” svaroopa” which is the residual consciousness of its own action disappears completely i.e. becomes “shoonyam” .

When you are fully absorbed with the vastness of the Supreme being and even the sense that I am meditating is not there and the ego “I” goes then, only the true Self, higher Self ,the Big “I” remains.  This is possible when there are no Vrittis in chitta. In other words mind does not fluctuate. In Samadhi, Mind  surrenders all its resistances to the union with the object of meditation. In this state, field of observation and the observing intelligence merge and total intelligence shines as the sole substance of reality. 

sutra 3.4 "trayamekarta samyamah" means => The three practices Dharana, Dhyana and Samadhi together on same object is called samyamah.

If we analyse the word “samyamah”  we will find it has two parts. Sama + Yama. Sama means perfection and Yama means control. 

Conclusion:

Eight limbs as a whole constitute one complete path which leads the aspirant upwards.

If followed properly, the person will definitely feel joy and peace of mind which will accompany to the bed at the end of the day. 

When the mind is set into a pattern, automatically one connection will be established with higher Self. That is individual’s experience which can be considered as Self-Realization

 

The Essence of IshaVasya Upanishad- Part-2

Introduction:

 IshaVasya Upanishad appears in the Samhita portion of Shukla Yajur Veda. It is one of the Ten principal Upanishads. Isha Upanishad has Eighteen Mantras. Among Ten Principal Upanishads, this comes in the beginning of the list. Isha means the Lord of the Universe. In my previous post, Part-1, of this Upanishad, I have discussed Mantra no-01 to Mantra no -07.

Link of the previous post: The Essence of IshaVasya Upanishad- Part-1

In this part we will discuss Isha Upanishad Mantra no-08 to Mantra no-13.

§ Eighth Mantra: The Path of Renunciation:

1) Sah paryagat shukramakaayam avarnam; asnaaviragm shuddhamapaapa-viddham; 2) kavih maneeshee paribhooh, swayambhoo yaathaa-tathyatah; arthaanvyadadhaatshwateebhyah samaabhyah.

The Self [ the atman] is everywhere, without a Body, without a shape, whole, pure, unpierced by evils, wise, all knowing, far shining, self-depending, all transcending, functions and duties are allotted by HIM alone to the Creator for eternity.

Analysis: 

There is no place where He is not there. He is everywhere. He is in everything. He is not limited by Time and Space. There is nothing that He needs to possess and nothing that He needs to achieve. He is the seed, the substratum, the cause of all. He has no physical body. As long as there is body, there is happiness and misery. He is immortal. He is beyond all the three gunas: Tamas, Rajas, and Sattwa. He is His own father and mother. None conceived Him. No one is the cause of His being. He is Self-existent.

§ Ninth mantra: Avidya & Vidya:

1) Andham tamah pravishanti ; ye avidyaam upaasate; 2) tatah bhooyah ive te tamah; ye u vidyaayaam rataah.

Pin your faith to natural knowledge, stumble through the darkness of the blind, pin your faith to supernatural knowledge, stumble through a darkness deeper still.

§ Tenth mantra: The fruits of Avidya & Vidya:

Anyat eve aanuh vidyayaa, anyat aahuh avidyayaa; iti shushruma dheeraanaam, ye nah tat vicha-chakshire.

They enter into blinding darkness who are worshippers of Avidya alone; but they enter even greater darkness, who verily are worshippers of Vidya alone. One thing, they say, is obtained from Vidya, and another thing, they say, from Avidya; Thus, we have heard from wise, who have explained it to us.

§ Eleventh mantra: Combination of Avidya & Vidya:

Vidyaam cha avidyaam yah, tatvedaubhayam saha; avidya mrityumteettvaa, mashnute vidyayaamrita.

They that know and distinguish between natural knowledge and supernatural knowledge shall by the first cross the perishable in safety; shall, passing beyond the second, attain immortal life. 

Vidya (Knowledge) and Avidya (Ignorance: he who knows them both together, overcomes death [darkness] through Avidya and obtains immortality through Vidya.

Above three mantras are very important. We must understand the essence of the mantras. The essence is that we should equalise jnana (vidya) and ajnana (avidya) and should not adhere to either the one or the other alone. According to the scholars, knowledge of Ishwara cannot be obtained by Karma alone nor by knowledge alone. Avidya = Karma and Vidya = Knowledge. Avidya yields fruits of karma, which has time bound existence. Hence attainment of Moksha [ liberation] is not possible, since several births are required to enjoy the fruits of Karma. This is called falling into utter Darkness which is nothing but SAMSARA. The mantra further says that if Upasana of Vidya means devotion is offered alone, it is still worse, because it will lead to greater Darkness. He who understands the correct meaning of this avidya and vidya and maintains balance between them and does Upasana, accordingly, can cross the world of Death and attains mortality.

Different scholars of different darshanas have given different opinion on vidya and avidya. Let us look into Shankaracharya’s commentary. His method of analysis is on the basis of subtle meaning of both the words. He always considered Advaita Philosophy to explain these two words: avidya and vidya. The knowledge of the world is Avidya, and the knowledge of Ishwara is Vidya. The world of objects is presented to us by our senses, and we see the world [jagat] as real. We are ignorant about the thread of Consciousness running through each and every object. There is certainly connection between the visible world and unseen Ishwara. In general, we believe that we the jivas are separate entity and Ishwara is separate entity. The cause of existence and experience of the world is due to the presence of Ishwara. So long as we are in the world with a sense of separate existence as the Jiva, the world has to be accepted as though it is real.

§ Twelfth mantra: Worshipping Unmanifest and Manifest:

1) andham tamah pravishanti; ye asambhootim-upaasate; 2) tato bhooya iva te tamo; ya u sambhootyaagm ratah.

Pin your faith to the seed of nature, stumble through the darkness of the blind; pin your faith to the shapes of  nature, stumble through a darkness deeper still.

They enter into blinding darkness who aim to conquer the Unmanifest cause of creation; but they enter into even greater darkness.

§ Thirteenth mantra: Fruits of Unmanifest and Manifest:

1) anyat evaaahuh sambhavaat, anyat aahuh asambhavaat; 2) iti shushruma dheeraanaam, ye nah tatvicha-chakshire.

The seed of nature brings one result: the shapes of nature another. We have heard it from the wise, who have clearly explained it.

Readers are requested to read the Sanskrit version of this Upanishad from the site whose link is here:

Conclusion:
Action: Karma: Duty

Karma is to be performed without expecting the fruits of Karma: Niskama Karma.

Jnana: Knowledge: The Truth

The nature of the Oneness: One Unity is the Ultimate Jnana: True knowledge.

Oneness: It is that, when: 

  • A person does not see as mine or not-mine.
  • No more love and hate for objects.
  • No more likes and dislikes.
  • One transcends all pleasure and pain.
  • There is no more Duality of subject and object.
  • The waves and ocean are both seen as water alone.
  • The blazing sparks are not different from the fire producing them.

Rebirth continues until Realization.

Katha Upanishad Mantra-2.3.4 says: If one does not succeed in realizing Him (The Self), before the fall of the Body, then in the worlds of created things, a rebirth for the Body is ordained.

Recommended readings:

  1. Back to the Truth: 5000 years of ADVAITA by Dennis Waite. **
  2. THE TEN PRINCIPAL UPANISHADS: Translated by Shree Purohit** Swami and W.B.Yeats
  3. Isavasya Upanishad for Beginners: By Swami Krishnananda.
  4. Brahma Sutra Bhasya of Sankaracharya: Translated by Swami Gambhirananda.**
  5. Commentary of ChAndogya Upanishad: By Swami Krishnananda.
  6. IshaVasya Upanishad: By Swami GuruBhaktananda.
  7. EIGHT UPANISADS -VOL-1 with commentary of Sankaracharya, Translated by SWAMI GAMBHIRANANDA.
  8. THE TAITTIRIYA UPANISHAD: SHIKSHAVALLI-ANANDAVALLI-BHRIGUVALLI with Sri Shankara’s Commentary By Sri Swami Satchidanandera Saraswati.
  9. A-U-M Awakening to Reality: By Dennis Waite***
  10. Panchadasi: Swami Vidyaranya:
  11. Information available on internet.

∝ζ::  Concluding part will consist of Mantra-14 to Mantra-18: Will be published soon! 😊🙏🙏❤️

It is my sincere request to the esteemed readers to share their opinion 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 continuation of the topic from the beginning. My mail ID is: arun7663@gmail.com

The Essence of IshaVasya Upanishad- Part-1

Introduction: ईशोपनिषत्

§ The IshaVasya Upanishad is the only one which occurs in the Samhita portion of  Shukla Yajur Veda. It is one of the Ten principal Upanishads. Though,  one of the shortest Upanishads, yet it is loaded with profound thoughts.

§ Isha Upanishad is a smaller one with 18 Mantras. This appears in the final chapter of Shukla Yajurveda. Among Ten Principal Upanishads, this comes in the beginning of the list. Isha means the Lord of the Universe. 

What is Upanishad?

Upanishad is Brahmavidya:

Upanishads are ancient Texts which do not construct any complex system of ideas and beliefs. They are plain and straightforward, yet very difficult to grasp. Require repeated reading and thinking on the context [SRAVANA, MANANA & NIDIDHYASYANA]. This is the science of Mind. Upanishads are instructions of Teachers to disciples through dialog between the two.

Upanishad literally means ” To learn the teachings, sitting rear the Teacher, (or sitting near the feet of Teacher). Upanishad is Brahmavidya [ sacred knowledge] which leads the aspirant towards Brahman who are desirous of liberation. There are 108 Upanishads. Out of 108, Upanishads, Ten Upanishads are regarded as Ten Principal Upanishads. They are: 

  1. IshaVasya Upanishad
  2. Kena Upanishad
  3. Katha Upanishad
  4. Prashna Upanishad
  5. Mundaka Upanishad
  6. Mandukya Upanishad
  7. Taittiriya Upanishad
  8. Aitareya Upanishad
  9. ChAndogya Upanishad
  10. BRRihadAraNyaka Upanishad

In this part we will discuss Isha Upanishad.

Study of this Upanishad will deliver teachings on both ” Jnana Yoga” and “Karma Yoga”. Aspirants who seek freedom from the bondage of this World will go for ” Jnana Yoga”, where renunciation is the most appropriate path to achieve goal. And ” Karma Yoga” is for the aspirants who are very desirous of attaining highest degree of closeness with GOD, such as achieving “Brahma Loka”.

This Upanishad starts with the Shanti Mantra as below:
ॐ पूर्णमदः पूर्णमिदं पूर्णात् पूर्णमुदच्यते । पूर्णस्य पूर्णमादाय पूर्णमेवावशिष्यते ॥ 
ॐ शांतिः शांतिः शांतिः ॥
Om poornamadah poornamidam poornaat- poornam-Udachayate; Poornasya Poorna-maadaaya Poorna-mevaa-vasishyate. Om Shanti! Shanti! Shanti!

Meaning of this mantra is:   ∞ + ∞ = ∞ 

” That is Whole, this is Whole; from the Whole, the Whole becomes manifest; from the Whole, when the Whole is negated, the Whole alone is what remains.“

॥ अथ ईशोपनिषत् ॥

First mantra: The Path of Renunciation:

1) Ishavasyam idam sarvam yat kim ca jagatyam jagat; 2) tena tyaktena bhunjitha, ma gridhah kasyasvid dhanam.

Analysis: The Lord Pervades the World(s)

  1. Whatever exists in this changing Universe is full of the Lord. All this is enveloped by the Supreme being. That supreme reality pervades everything here and there. There is no such place where It is not there. It exists in everything.
  2. Protect the Self by renunciation. Claim nothing; enjoy, do not covet anybody’s property. Let go and rejoice. Be practical. It does not mean giving up.

Though it is believed that possession and acquisition lead to happiness, but possessiveness creates attachment. Attachment brings unhappiness. Renunciation is the path for true happiness. An aspirant who devotes himself or herself entirely to contemplation of the Self as the Lord, has no further need of worldly duties. This renunciation leads to the knowledge of the Self and finds immortality.

Second mantra: “Niskama Karmayoga” is the concept we get from the second mantra.

1) Kurvanneveha karmani jijivisecchatam samah; 
2) evam tvayi nanyatheto'sti na karma lipyate nare. 

” Kurvanneveha karmani” means only by doing Karma [ karma means duties] ( here karma means all rituals like Agnihotra etc). “jijivisecchatam samah” means like to live for 100 years. By doing such karma, bad karma will not touch you. It is recommended that such karma should be done with constant selfless attitude. Performing duties without any motive, one will not be bounded to the actions. This path of action is known as ” Pravritti Marga”.

Second mantra emphasize on doing our duty as an act for Ishwara (means His creation) as His agent and not to act for own self, to benefit self. Doing so, live as long as you wish. 100 years of living is just symbolic here.

 All we know that, when we reach at the core of the Consciousness, the Awareness, we find there a stillness in mind which has no conflicts, no disruption in mind. We can then think of a state of ” NO MIND” what we say as ” Chitta Vritti Nirodah” the beginning of Patanjali Yoga Sutras. Here mind is calm, quite and still. In reality that is our true nature. “YOU ARE THAT’ according to ChhAndagyo Upanishad. If we can live this way, karmic law cannot bind us. “na karma lipyate” Therefore let go and be pleased with what you have and enjoy.

Third Mantra: 

§ The Sunless World: The path of sufferings:

1) Asurya nama te loka andhena tamasavrtah; 2) tamste pretyabhigacchanti ye ke cat mahano janah.

They that deny the Self, return after death to a godless birth, blind, enveloped in darkness. [ These births partake of the nature of Asuras, the demons”)

The third Mantra says about the darkness which has to be understood in depth. This is the world of demons filled with demoniac wealth. Asurya = a + surya: means where Sun is not there. This literally means that there is only darkness in that world. There is no light there. This darkness is meant for ignorance. Light of Wisdom shines this darkness. 

The Upanishad says this world of darkness [ Asurya loka] as world of a) Spiritual Blindness, b) Spiritual darkness, c) Spiritual ignorance and engaging in the deeds that kill the awareness. Such darkness keeps away from the freedom of the Eternal, Immortal, Divine Self.

Here lokas are referred to those dimensions, also known as astral planes, where births take place according to fruits of karma which are enjoyed “lokyante”. Ignorance which blocks the realization of one’s true nature of Self, thereby becomes the cause for repeated births according to the deeds. ” Ye ke catmahano janah“: This means that those who do not know atman due to ignorance are slayers of atman(atmahanah). And for this fault of slaying atman, they return to Samsara (this world).

Q) What causes rebirth? 

Answer: So long you are away from knowing your true self, you yourself is the cause of your rebirth.

 Fourth Mantra: Nature of the Self (Atman)

 1) anejadekam manaso javiyo nainaddeva apnuvanpurvamarsat ; 2) tad dhavatah anyan-atyeti tisthat tasminnapah matarisva dadhaati.

§ Unmoving, it moves swifter than thought. Remaining still, It outstrips all that run.

The Self is One. Unmoving, it moves faster than mind. The senses (Devas) lag, but Self runs ahead. Unmoving, it outruns pursuit. Out of Self comes the breath, that is the life of all things. In It, as Water by the Air, all action of all living beings is supported.

Analysis: –

This Self, the Absolute Truth, the Awareness, Infinite, Immortal, Omnipresent, indescribable, known as Brahman in Vedas is without attributes and beyond Space and Time. This Self is truly ONE, the WHOLE and therefore all-embracing.

This is to be understood that there is a centre which is not fixed in one place, but it moves. Everything moves, such as this Universe is expanding. Galaxies are going far away from one another. Subatomic particles, electrons move. Mind moves. Everything moves but One remain unmoving and that is Awareness.

This Self is beyond the senses, beyond the understanding, beyond all expression. It is pure Awareness [ NIRGUNA BRAHMAN]. It is BLISS. It is ONE without SECOND. Know it Alone!

The Devas represent the mind and senses. The ignorant mind, not aware of who the Self is, tries to catch It, through different paths, different knowledge, but never succeeds. The Self, as it were, is always ahead of the mind. 

All the objects are perceived through five senses. We have limitations of perceptions. These five senses are five instruments. The Brain system processes data inputs received through these five instruments. There are creatures, whose instruments are different from us. Whether it be vision or hearing or sensing through skin etc. As like in case of snakes, which can sense 0.02 degree of difference in temperature. Similarly, there are examples in case of audible sound frequencies. For vision too there are different creatures with different abilities. Therefore, different impressions, and different perceptions work. Nothing is impossible. so, the interpretation of existence is quite relative according to difference in perceptions.

Essence of existence (SAT) is that It is all pervading. If we can activate the core of everything, that is Consciousness, then we can perceive some extra, more than what is ordinary. For that we must remove avidya (ignorance). We have to search for extra which cannot be perceived through sense organs. That is known as “seeking the truth”. 

So nearer yet far away. For that we have to realize that: I am not separate from the Truth, the Existence(sat), the Consciousness(chit). I am the Consciousness. I am aware that I am pure Consciousness. Pure Consciousness is that Consciousness, where there is no thought.

Fifth Mantra:

§ The Self appears to move-yet It moves not. It is far distant-yet It is near. It is within all, and It is without all.

1) tat ejati tat na ejati tat doore tat u antike, 2) tat antarasya sarvasya tat u sarvasyasya bahyatah.

1) The meaning of the mantra in this part is that: the Atman moves and yet It moves not; It is far away and yet is near. 2) The second part of the mantra says: It is within all of this; and yet It is also outside of all this.

Analysis:

The Self is beyond all mental concepts. far and near, within and outside, moving and unmoving – all these are concepts of mind with respect to space and time. Mind tells us that we cannot catch the Self. The mind and the Self are in two different realms of reality. But let us look into the pictures given below: 

This is how ONE became many.

 Sixth Mantra: The Jnani- Seer of the Self:

1) yas tu sarvani bhutani aatmani eva anupashyati 2) sarva bhutesu ca aatmanam tatah na vijugupsate.

1) He who sees all beings and forms in the Self, he alone really sees. 2) He also sees the Self in all beings and forms, there after he feels no hatred towards anyone.

Analysis: Everything in the creation is Atman:

The sixth mantra says that seeing all beings in the Lord, means as being superimposed on the Lord and seeing the Lord in all beings means as the substratum of all beings. God- realization ceases the existence of individuality and creates Universality. Sarvatma Bhava must be the feelings for equality. This is the true essence of God-realization. This will ensure the absence of all ill feelings in human. We should see the Virat [jagat] as our own Atman. There should be neither Raga nor Dvesa, nor the feelings of exhilaration nor grieving. When one has such an integrated vision of life, it becomes impossible to hate any being. Dislike and hatred only come when we see others as different from us.

Seventh Mantra: Freedom from Delusion and sorrow:

1) yasmin sarvani bhutany atmaivabhud vijanata 2) tatra ko mohah kahsoka hekatvam anupasyatah.

1) When all beings and forms have become one in his own Self-knowing; thus, 2) how can he feel delusion and grief thereafter, who sees oneness (non-Duality) alone everywhere.

Analysis:

When the feeling of Oneness will be permanent, the person will not consider any event or object as his or her. The thinking of mine or not mine will vanish. There will be equality in all spheres of life under all circumstances. One transcends all pain and pleasures. Then there will be no more duality of subject and object. No more experiencer, experiencing and experienced. As in an ocean, the waves are not separate from ocean. Arises in the ocean and merge there itself.

Conclusion:

Reward of Realisation: The Birth of Universal Love

When we realise the Text so far discussed above, we will be to establish an World free of Hate. The vision of Unity will prevail then. Universal Love will be seen everywhere. The experience of Oneness with all beings comes as a result of the highest knowledge by discovering the true nature of Self.

Readers are requested to read the Sanskrit version of this Upanishad from the site whose link is here:

Recommended readings:
  1. Back to the Truth: 5000 years of ADVAITA by Dennis Waite. **
  2. THE TEN PRINCIPAL UPANISHADS: Translated by Shree Purohit** Swami and W.B.Yeats
  3. Isavasya Upanishad for Beginners: By Swami Krishnananda.
  4. Brahma Sutra Bhasya of Sankaracharya: Translated by Swami Gambhirananda.**
  5. Commentary of ChAndogya Upanishad: By Swami Krishnananda.
  6. IshaVasya Upanishad: By Swami GuruBhaktananda.
  7. EIGHT UPANISADS -VOL-1 with commentary of Sankaracharya, Translated by SWAMI GAMBHIRANANDA.
  8. THE TAITTIRIYA UPANISHAD: SHIKSHAVALLI-ANANDAVALLI-BHRIGUVALLI with Sri Shankara’s Commentary by Sri Swami Satchidanandera Saraswati.
  9. A-U-M Awakening to Reality: By Dennis Waite***
  10. Panchadasi: Swami Vidyaranya:
  11. Information available on internet.

It is my sincere request to the esteemed readers to share their opinion 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 continuation of the topic from the beginning. My mail ID is: arun7663@gmail.com

 

Awareness: The Ultimate Truth

Introduction:

Awareness: IT is That which is Absolute, fills all space, is complete in Itself, to which there is no second and which is continuously present in everything, in every being and everywhere. It is homogeneous in nature. It is known as “Brahman in Vedanta”

Awareness is pure Consciousness.

There is no full proof scientific definition of Awareness in general . However, according to Advaita Vedanta philosophy, Reality is identified as “Brahman” . Brahman is identified as singular in nature, identical to the Self and known as Pure Being (Sat) , Awareness (Chit) and Bliss (Ananda). The visible world(Matter) is considered to be illusory (Maya~ Mithya). Bhagavad Gita says: Awareness is one and undivided in all beings , but it appears to be divided, when shinning through many bodies and minds. [ Ch-13: 16-18.]

Awareness is that, in which all experiences appear. It is that with which all experiences are made.

The common name is “I ” or “Self”. According to Vedas (Sacred Texts of ancient India), Brahman is Infinite being. All these refer to “THAT” in which experience appears. With which it is known and out of which it is made. Conventional view is that our thoughts and feelings, perceptions appear in ourselves through awareness.

Please read the following Paragraph carefully:

If we observe carefully, we will see these thoughts appear in some kind of Field. They appear in that space. Consciousness is not though a space but say a field or space like. Now may we close our eyes and allow our thoughts to move freely wherever it goes according to previous experiences. Think for a moment. It can be observed minutely. Does my attention ever leave the field of Awareness? Thoughts inside “I AM” and sound outside “I AM” are not separate. They are linked. Allow our attention to go wherever it goes and have a single question. Does ever my attention leave the Awareness? Try to leave the field out. Imagine out of box now, such as that experience which you have not experienced earlier. or remember that you landed on the Mars. New sets of perceptions appear. Now, are these new perceptions inside Awareness or outside Awareness? Is there any feeling, perceptions outside Awareness? Can we leave our Awareness where there is no feeling?

Simply and clearly nobody has ever come in contact with any experience outside of Awareness. Strangely our entire world culture is founded on a single belief . According to Science, there is a substance which exists outside Awareness and that substance is Matter. Matter is the fundamental reality of all existence. Classical physics, reductionists and science at least believe this that Consciousness is derived from Matter. This is the primary assumption as a whole. Since the invention of matter, scientists are saying that Awareness is product of Matter.

Now question arises. Q-1) What is the nature of Universe? Q-2) How Awareness can be derived from matter? Both are contradictory. For question no. 1): Science do not ever acknowledge that we have answer. For question no. 2): How is Awareness derived from Matter (from brain arises consciousness…but brain is matter). We presumed that the stuff called matter is Universe and then we ask how Awareness derived from matter. Now, the question is how the Universe has come up?

Awareness is our experience.

Now therefore, Awareness is our subject to be known, the field of study. We are aware of what we have experienced. What is the nature of that knowing that is more important. Until we know the nature of knowing with which our experience is known, or until we know the nature of the Awareness where our experience appears we cannot know anything that is true about the body, mind and beyond.

We must first know what the nature of Awareness is?

Now if we ask ourselves ” Am I aware”? Then comes the answer “yes”. There is some gap between two thoughts. What happens is that after putting the first question “Am I aware” question makes some pause and ask the system to get the reply and there it collapses and reply the answer “yes”. During this gap of time, awareness tests itself momentarily. In the pause between the question, I am aware that I am aware. Awareness knows itself. That is the pause and it is Awareness itself who replies yes I am aware. I AM AWARE THAT I AM AWARE.

“No mind” : What is it?

Think of that which is not objective and see.

Awareness recognizes its own Being. Only awareness knows that it is awareness. No mind is the answer. Although thought is made of awareness only, yet it cannot know the stuff it is made of. Awareness is a field which is aware that it is a field adding a space like quality. It is empty from the point of view of objective. It is free from objective. It is like a screen of awareness where all the experiences appear. There is single Awareness (NON DUAL).

Awareness is fundamental:

We can say it is Universal Consciousness. It has no border, it has no shape, no form, not distinguishable, the single infinite, indivisible entity(The whole, the ONE).

Now, imagine a scene of dream. Dream breaks, then what remains in mind? What was in dream? Where is the scene seen? Seen by whom?

In the study of Awareness , there is a break through by Upanishads: NON-DUAL VEDANTA (ADVAITA VEDANTA). It is not about mystical experiences too. It is about daily experiences like awaking , dreaming and deep sleep. Now let us apply some logical thoughts and investigate.

Vedanta is an investigation to find out who or what we are? When we will realize that we are not limited to this body of flesh and blood, but we are immortal Awareness.

It is a journey from not knowing to knowing. There are methodologies to understand, to establish logics. We may refer the text “DIG DRISHYA VIVEKA“ which has been written some 700 years back.

  • We see the world through eyes. Eyes are distinct from what it sees. Here, eyes are the seer.
  • I am aware of the eyes , that eyes are object. Mind is seer and eyes are now object. Eyes and mind are separate.

Let us think deeply. Mind is the observer of the body , because it observes through all sense organs. it is seer here. Let us observe Mind now. Mind itself which constitutes our thoughts, feeling, emotions , ideas are changing, which are never static.

I am aware that whether,

  • I am happy or not.

  • I understand or do not understand.

  • I like or do not like.

  • I love or do not love.

  • I hate or do not hate.

  • I am angry or not angry.

All above are expressions of our mind. These are wave of thoughts. So, I am aware of all the changes in my mind. Therefore, I am the witness of the mind. Hence mind is seen by Me. Evidently , I am distinct from the MIND. I am not the mind, but witness of the mind. Seer and seen are different. I am that who illumines my MIND.

Now that I am distinct from this Body and Mind . So, Who Am I?

Answer is :– I Am the Awareness. I Am the Witness of the Body and Mind. This Self, this pure Subject, is not an object. It cannot be known. I AM always Awareness, not something else.

Conclusion:

The knowing of consciousness with which we experience, cannot be divided into parts. Trace the “I” to its origin after removing all experiences to the essence of nature of our minds, we will land into same Consciousness. Our finite minds overlap, and we call that the outside world and part of minds which do not overlap, we call it that thoughts and feelings. Our minds are the elements of the Universal consciousness. We do share the world of same Consciousness.

List of Books : Recommended For Interested Readers:

  1. Thought As a System: By DAVID BOHM
  2. BIOCENTRISM:– How life and consciousness are the keys to Understanding the True Nature of The Universe: By Robert Lanza, MD with BOB BERMAN
  3. Beyond Biocentrism- Rethinking Time, Space, Consciousness and the illusion of Death. By Robert Lanza, MD with BOB BERMAN
  4. Entangled Minds- Extra Sensory Experiences in A Quantum Reality. By DEAN RADIN.
  5. Expand Your Consciousness through DAVID K MILLER
  6. QUANTUM ENIGMA -Physics Encounter Consciousness: By Bruce Rosen Blum and Fred Kuttner.
  7. Back to the Truth: 5000 years of ADVAITA by Dennis Waite.**
  8. THE TEN PRINCIPAL UPANISHADS: Translated by Shree Purohit** Swami and W.B.Yeats
  9. Brahma Sutra Bhasya of Sankaracharya: Translated by Swami Gambhirananda.**
  10. EIGHT UPANISADS -VOL-1 with commentary of Sankaracharya, Translated by SWAMI GAMBHIRANANDA.
  11. A-U-M Awakening to Reality : By Dennis Waite***
  12. Panchadasi: Swami Vidyaranya:
  13. Information available on internet.

It is my sincere request to the esteemed readers to share their opinion or queries if any. Suggestions to make the site attractive will be highly helpful for me. Readers are requested to read all the posts to have continuation of the topic from the beginning. My mail ID is : arun7663@gmail.com

Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-8C

Introduction: Eighth Chapter:

The ChAndogya Upanishad is part of ChAndogya Brahmana of the Sama Veda which is one of the largest important Upanishads with Eight Chapters (Prapathakas) with many Mantras(verses )including some stories as themes to gain Upanishadic knowledge. This Upanishad is placed in the 9th position in the list of Ten Principal Upanishads. The name of the Upanishad is derived from the word   “Chanda” (Rhythm~ poetic meter).

**This Upanishad directly deals with the true nature of Brahman, the Supreme Self, without a Second.

*Self is Atman; Atman is Brahman*

ChAndogya Upanishad consists of Eight chapters. The first five chapters forms the part of Karma Kanda[ rituals] and Upasana Kanda [worship and meditation]. Chapter- 6, 7 and 8 form the part of Jnana Kanda[profound Self-knowledge].

The essence of the Teaching is: – “Brahma Vidya”

Brahma Vidya: It is the knowledge of the ultimate Truth which results in Self realisation. The knower of this Truth remains untouched by any situation in life.

This chapter is especially intended for those who are unable to grasp the vastness of “Absolute”, the subject like Bhoomaa Vidya (Infinity), taught in the previous chapter. Though this chapter confines itself to the Heart of an individual, but that does not limit itself to the body of an individual. The heart here mentioned is used as symbol as the centre of the pure subjectivity in us and therefore heart refers to consciousness, which is apparently located within the walls of the body, but never limited to physical body.

A) Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-8A: Section-1 to Section-3  has been published. Here is the link.

B) Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-8B: Section-4 to Section-6  has been published. Here is the link.

A request to my readers: Please read my previous posts on ChAndogya Upanishad, especially 6th & 7th chapter. Links are given below:

  1. Chapter Six: Section-1 to Section-4(Khanda-1 to Khanda-4). The link is here:  Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-6A of 6
  2. Chapter Six: Section-5 to Section-8(Khanda-5 to Khanda-8). The link is here: Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-6B of 6
  3. Chapter Six: Section-9 to Section-16(Khanda-9 to Khanda-16). The link is here: Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-6C of 6[END OF 6TH CHAPTER]
  4. Chapter-7 : Section-1 to Section-6 has been discussed. The link is here:- Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-7A
  5. Chapter-7 : Section-7 to Section-12 has been discussed. The link is here:- Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-7B
  6. Chapter-7 : Section-13 to Section-22: The link is here:- Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-7C
  7. Chapter-7 : Section-23 to Section-27: The link is here:- Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-7D[FINAL PART]

This post is part-3[8C] from 8th Chapter of ChAndagyo Upanishad. Section-7 to Section-11 will be discussed here. 

Section-7 [Four Mantras]: 

Prajapati’s Instruction to Indra on the Real Self:

In this section we will concentrate on stages of Consciousness. In  Mandukya Upanishad we have seen three conditions of Self waking, dreaming and deep sleep.

On one occasion, Prajapati made an announcement in his celestial assembly hall. The gods and the demons both were present there and both heard the proclamation. He proclaimed the great Truth. The announcement made is as below:

Mantra-1: Prajapati said: ‘The Self is free from sin, free from old age, free from death, free from sorrow, and free from hunger and thirst. It is the cause of desire for Truth and for commitment to Truth. This Self has to be sought for and thoroughly known. The person who has sought for and known the Self attains all worlds and all desires’.

Mantra-2:  Both the gods and the demons came to know from people what Prajapati had said. They said: ‘ We shall search for the Self, by knowing which we can attain all the worlds and whatever things we desire.’  With this object in view, Indra among the gods and Virochana among the demons went to Prajapati, carrying fuel in their hands. But they did not let each other know their plans.

Mantra-3: Both of them spent 32 years with Prajapati by maintaining Brahmacharins (Austerities). One day Prajapati asked them: ‘For what purpose you are here?’ They replied: “The Self is free from sin, free from old age, free from death, free from sorrow, and free from hunger and thirst. It is the cause of desire for Truth and for commitment to Truth. This Self has to be sought for and thoroughly known. The person who has sought for and known the Self attains all worlds and all desires-Sir this is you message. We hope to attain that Self and therefore stay.’

Mantra-4: Prajapati said those two: ‘ That which is seen in the eyes is the Self.’ He also said: “This Self is immortal and fearless. It is Brahman.’ Then they asked: ‘Lord, we see something when we look in water and again when we look in a mirror. Which is it?’ Prajapati replied: “The Self is seen in all these’.

Section-8 [Five Mantras]: 

Mantra-1: Prajapati said: ‘Look at yourself in a bowl of water, come again if you do not understand the Self. They looked into the bowl of water. Prajapati said: ‘What did you see there?’ They said: ‘ We saw ourselves, our doubles; even with our hair and nails’.

Mantra-2: Prajapati said: ‘ Shave, put on fine clothes, fine jewels, look into water again.’ They did accordingly. Prajapati said: ‘ what did you see?’

Mantra-3: They said: ‘Lord! We saw ourselves shaven, dressed, adorned. ‘Prajapati said: ‘ That is Self. That is unalarmed, immortal Self.’ They both went away satisfied.

Mantra-4: Seeing them leave, Prajapati said to himself: ‘ They are going  without finding the Self, without knowing the Self. Who follows their philosophy, whether godly or godless perishes. Virochana, the king of the demons, went back to the demons happy in mind and explained to them the Upanishad.

Mantra-5: This is why in this world even today people say, ‘Oh, he is demon,’ if that person is devoid of the feeling of charity, is called godless; for that is the philosophy of godless. When a person dies, they decorate the body with all kinds of offerings, new clothes, and jewellery, for they think that by this, the person will conquer the other world.

In this section the teachings emphasize on the fact that there are some people who pays least importance in self-discipline. Such people are primarily interested in pleasures perceived by senses only. They do not believe in the higher knowledge. They do not care for humanity, charity. No faith in GOD. Busy in doing misdeeds to meet requirements of self only. The body is everything to them. Therefore, they believe in decorating a dead man with the hope that they will be treated same in the next world. This was the practice adopted in ancient Egypt. According to Vedanta philosophy, the Self is not the body. Body decays and perishes, but the Self never. Body must be given due importance such that Prana makes the body animating and body can perform all works that are needed to sustain life.

Section-9 [Three Mantras]: 

Mantra-1: Before reaching to the gods with the Teachings received from Prajapati, Indra thought himself that the reflection is well decorated when the body is decorated. When the body is in fine clothes, the reflection is also in fine clothes. When the body is neat and clean, the Self is also neat and clean. Again, suppose a person is blind, then the Self  is blind. If the body is lame, so will be the Self. If the body is crippled, Self would be crippled. If the body is dead, Self would be dead. But Self is never dead. Therefore, Indra felt inadequacy in the teaching.

Virochana was happy with the teachings. He went back without any doubt and explained everything he understood to the demons. Virochana taught that the Body was the Self, since he understood the teachings according to his own level, his own nature. But Indra was a god with higher intellect and spiritual qualities. Indra remembered what Prajapati said about the Self in the beginning. Prajapati said: “The Self is free from sin, free from old age, free from death, free from sorrow, and free from hunger and thirst. It is the cause of desire for Truth and for commitment to Truth”. Therefore, Indra returned back to Prajapati to learn about True Self.

Mantra-2: Indra went back to Prajapati with folded hands. Prajapati said: Indra! you went away with Virochana, perfectly satisfied. What brings you back? Indra replied: when the body is adorned, so is its reflection. When the body is in fine clothes, the reflection is also in fine clothes. When the body is neat and clean, the Self is also neat and clean. Again, suppose a person is blind, then the Self  is blind. If the body is lame, so will be the Self. If the body is crippled, Self would be crippled. If the body is dead, Self would be dead. Therefore, I do not see good in this.

Mantra-3: Prajapati said: Indra! This bodily Self is like that. Stay for another thirty-two years, I will explain more. Indra stayed for another thirty-two years.

In the next section, Indra is introduced into an experience which is not conditioned by the characters of the physical body.

Section-10 [Four Mantras]: The Self in Dreaming state.

Mantra-1: Prajapati said: ” That which you see in the dreaming state, is the Self. That is Brahman, about which I am going to explain you. That Being which rejoices and is happy in the state of dream is the Self, which is fearless and Immortal. Indra then left satisfied. But even before returning to gods, a doubt arose in his mind. He thought: ” A person may be blind, but when he is dreaming, he is not blind. He may be lame, but when he is dreaming, he is not lame. There may be some defects in his body, but his dream body is not affected by them.

Mantra-2: Self is not killed when the body is killed. He is not crippled when the body is crippled, yet he is killed and chased in dreams. It may seem as if there is something unpleasant. He may even seem to be weeping. I see nothing good in this.

Mantra-3: Indra went back to Prajapati with folded hands. Prajapati said: Indra! you went away with Virochana, perfectly satisfied. What brings you back? Indra replied: “Lord, a person may be blind, but when he is dreaming, he is not blind. He may be lame, but when he is dreaming, he is not lame. There may be some defects in his body, but his dream body is not affected by them.

Mantra-4: Self is not killed when the body is killed. He is not crippled when the body is crippled, yet he is killed and chased in dreams. It may seem as if there is something unpleasant. He may even seem to be weeping. I see nothing good in this. Prajapati said: Indra! This bodily Self is like that. Stay for another thirty-two years, I will explain more. Indra stayed for another thirty-two years.

Section-11 [Three Mantras]:

The Self in Deep sleep:

Mantra-1: Prajapati said: ” When the man is sleeping, at peace with himself, happy, without dream, then that is Self. It is immortal and fearless”.  Indra went away satisfied, but before reaching to the gods, he found inadequacy in teaching. He thought within himself: Man in his sleep does not even recognise that he is Self; neither does he know any other creatures around it. It is like complete annihilation, as it were. How could this be Self? That which does not know its own Self , can not be Self.

Mantra-2: Indra again went back to Prajapati with folded hands.                    Prajapati asked: ‘Indra you went satisfied, what brings you back? Indra replied, “Revered Sir, indeed in deep sleep, this one does not know Himself as “I am He”, neither does he know any creatures. He is lost. I see no good in this.

Mantra-3: Prajapati said; ‘ Indra! you are right; yet where else you can find the Self? Stay for five years more; i will explain more. Indra stayed accordingly. That makes one hundred and one years and so with regard to that people say thus, ” Verily, foe one hundred and one years Indra lived with Prajapati, the disciplined life of a celibate student of sacred knowledge.” Then Prajapati said to him: —

                                                                           …to continue

Next part will be final part : section-12 to section-15 will be published soon.

Conclusion:

One hundred and one years of austerity was performed by Indra in the abode of Prajapati to acquire Supreme knowledge. Even now people say that lord Indra, such a powerful person with such a brilliant intellect, had to live a life of tremendous austerity for 101 years for the sake of this “Brahma Vidya”, knowledge of Atman.

So, one hundred and one years of tapas did Indra perform in the abode of Prajapati for the sake of this Supreme Knowledge. Even now people say: “Indra, such a powerful person with such a brilliant intellect, had to live a life of tremendous austerity for one hundred and one years for the sake of this Atman knowledge!”

Readers are requested to know more on “deep sleep” from my blog post on maNDukya Upanishad. Mantra-2 is most important which is given below:

Mantra 2:  (Mandukya Upanishad): All this is verily Brahman. (ब्रह्मायमात्मा ब्रह्म) ” Ayam atma Brahma” There is nothing that is not Brahman. The Personal Self is the impersonal Brahman. (सोऽयमात्मा चतुष्पात् ) It has four aspects (states), also known as four quarters.

“Ayam atma Brahma” is one of the four mahaVakyas from four Vedas. It signifies the realization that who I am really is that same Brahman. The word “chatuShpad” (चतुष्पात् )refers to the four aspects of Consciousness. Three states of Consciousness: 1) Waking[GROSS], 2) Dreaming [SUBTLE] and 3) Deep Sleep [CAUSAL]. Fourth is the Reality which is the Background of all states. Details to be known from the following verses.

The link for reading text in Sanskrit is here:-   Chandgoya Upanishad 

Recommended readings:

  1. Back to the Truth: 5000 years of ADVAITA by Dennis Waite. **
  2. THE TEN PRINCIPAL UPANISHADS: Translated by Shree Purohit** Swami and W.B.Yeats
  3. Brahma Sutra Bhasya of Sankaracharya: Translated by Swami Gambhirananda.**
  4. Commentary of ChAndogya Upanishad: By Swami Krishnananda.
  5. ChAndogya Upanishad: By Swami GuruBhaktananda.
  6. ChAndogya Upanishad: Translated by Swami Gambhirananda.
  7. EIGHT UPANISADS -VOL-1 with commentary of Sankaracharya, Translated by SWAMI GAMBHIRANANDA.
  8. THE TAITTIRIYA UPANISHAD: SHIKSHAVALLI-ANANDAVALLI-BHRIGUVALLI with Sri Shankara’s Commentary By Sri Swami Satchidanandera Saraswati.
  9. A-U-M Awakening to Reality: By Dennis Waite***
  10. Panchadasi: Swami Vidyaranya:
  11. Information available on internet.

It is my sincere request to the esteemed readers to share their opinion 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 continuation of the topic from the beginning. My mail ID is: arun7663@gmail.com

 

Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-8B

 Course after Death

Introduction: Eighth Chapter:

The ChAndogya Upanishad is part of ChAndogya Brahmana of the Sama Veda which is one of the largest important Upanishads with Eight Chapters (Prapathakas) with many Mantras(verses )including some stories as themes to gain Upanishadic knowledge. This Upanishad is placed in the 9th position in the list of Ten Principal Upanishads. The name of the Upanishad is derived from the word   “Chanda” (Rhythm~ poetic meter).

**This Upanishad directly deals with the true nature of Brahman, the Supreme Self, without a Second.

ChAndogya Upanishad consists of Eight chapters. The first five chapters forms the part of Karma Kanda[ rituals] and Upasana Kanda [worship and meditation]. Chapter- 6, 7 and 8 form the part of Jnana Kanda[profound Self-knowledge].

The essence of the Teaching is: – “Brahma Vidya”

Brahma Vidya: It is the knowledge of the ultimate Truth which results in Self realisation. The knower of this Truth remains untouched by any situation in life.

This chapter is especially intended for those who are unable to grasp the vastness of “Absolute”, the subject like Bhooma Vidya (Infinity), taught in the previous chapter. Though this chapter confines itself to the Heart of an individual, but that does not limit itself to the body of an individual. The heart here mentioned is used as symbol as the center of the pure subjectivity in us and therefore heart refers to consciousness, which is apparently located within the walls of the body, but never limited to physical body.

Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-8A: Section-1 to Section-3 has been published. Here is the link.

A request to my readers: Please read my previous posts on ChAndogya Upanishad, especially 6th & 7th chapter. Links are given below:

  1. Chapter Six: Section-1 to Section-4(Khanda-1 to Khanda-4). The link is here:  Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-6A of 6
  2. Chapter Six: Section-5 to Section-8(Khanda-5 to Khanda-8). The link is here: Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-6B of 6
  3. Chapter Six: Section-9 to Section-16(Khanda-9 to Khanda-16). The link is here: Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-6C of 6[END OF 6TH CHAPTER]
  4. Chapter-7 : Section-1 to Section-6 has been discussed. The link is here:- Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-7A
  5. Chapter-7 : Section-7 to Section-12 has been discussed. The link is here:- Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-7B
  6. Chapter-7 : Section-13 to Section-22: The link is here:- Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-7C
  7. Chapter-7 : Section-23 to Section-27: The link is here:- Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-7D[FINAL PART]

This post is part-2[8B] from 8th Chapter of Chandagyo Upanishad. Section-4 to Section-6 will be discussed here. 

Section-4 [Three Mantras]: Life Beyond

Mantra-1: This Self is the Bridge[“setu”~wall] which keeps the creatures from breaking in. Day and night do not go near Him, nor age, nor death, nor grief, nor good, nor evil. Sin turns away from Him because Brahman knows no sin.

The bridge is to be considered as Atman that connects one world with another world. It is like an embankment over which days and night can not pass. Time can not touch this Realm. It is beyond Time. This mantra emphasize on the truth that in Atman there is no contact with anything that is phenomenal. Old age, death, sorrows, good, evil nothing can touch Atman. This is the Realm of pure Being. This is world of Brahman which is untouched by every kind of evil. Evil is nothing but the consciousness of Body and Objects. Therefore, Atman is free from every kind of contamination as it is beyond Time and Space.

Mantra-2: This Self is the Bridge. When man crosses that bridge, if blind, he shall see, if sick, he shall be well; if unhappy, he shall be happy. When he crosses that bridge, though it may be night, it shall be day, for “Brahmaloka” is shining always.

This is Brahmaloka: Brahmaloka does not mean some world or Realm comparable with the one in which we are living. Brahman, the Absolute Itself, is called world of Brahman. It is just symbolic way of representing its own Being as the totality of experience. The field of experience is representing “loka”, the Realm. “Sarvam khalu idam Brahma” (सर्वं खल्विदं ब्रह्म तज्जलानिति शान्त उपासीत)- All this is Brahman, everything goes back to Brahman, and everything is sustained by Brahman.

Mantra-3: Brahmaloka is for those that are masters of themselves. They can move anywhere in this world at their pleasure.

In this Mantra, Upanishad is teaching us that through ” Brahmacharya” means continence(self-control), attains the level of Brahman. We have seen in Katha Upanishad about two paths: “Sreyas” and “Preyas”. One who practices Brahmacharya takes the path of “Sreyas”. Thereby one reaches to the state of no limit in respect of powers, capacities, knowledge, and existence.

Section-5 [Four Mantras]: Importance of Brahmacharya:

Mantra-1: That which is known as Sacrifice[yajna] is Brahmacharya. This is because one who knows the Self, attains Brahmaloka through Brahmacharya. Again, that which is known as worship[ista] is Brahmacharya.

The conduct of Brahman is Brahmacharya. To live as Brahman would be Brahmacharya. It is very difficult to conceive this. This is total abstraction of the senses in a sublimation of Consciousness which recognises itself alone, to the exclusion of everything else.

Mantra-2: That which is known as “Sattarayana” [a sacrifice lasting for a long time] is Brahmacharya. Through Brahmacharya, the individual self gets liberated. Then that which is called “mauna”[silence] is Brahmacharya., for through Brahmacharya one realizes the self, and having realized the Self one remains absorbed in the thought of It.

“Sattarayana” is a kind of ritual which is equivalent to practice of continence. It is a particular sacrifice which involves the services of many priests. Upanishad explains by splitting the word “Sattarayana” = sat + trayana: means sat is Being and trayana is the way of freedom or protection from every corners. Similarly, mauna, a vow of silence is also Brahmacharya. Taking a vow of silence, a person contemplates on his identity with Brahman.

Mantra-3: That which is known as “anasakayana” [ the path of fasting] is Brahmacharya, for through Brahmacharya one attains the Self which is immortal. Then that which is called “aranyayana” [life in the forest] is Brahmacharya. Ara means an ocean and nya means an ocean; and these two oceans abide in the region of Brahman. In that third world there, one finds a lake called airammadiya, a delightful tank full of gruel, an aswattha tree from which exudes nectar, and a palace of gold built by Brahma and named Aparajita. 

Aranyayana is dwelling in forest which is vanaprastha life. leading this life in austerities with great vows is a path of Brahmacharya for the attainment of Brahman. Whatever be the austerities, self-control is the highest austerity, and nothing is comparable to it. it is said in this Mantra that there are two oceans in the realm of Brahman filled with nectar where this world and that world both come together in a fraternal embrace as if two oceans “Ara” and “Nya” merge into one. They exists in the third world, beyond this world.[Not a physical world though but it is the Spiritual world] It is immortal bliss that one would experience after reaching there. Mantra says that there is an “aswattha” tree (peepul tree), very vast in its expanse from every pore of which nectar exudes. It is the Kalpavriksha, as mentioned in puranas. Kalpavriksha is such kind of tree present there where sitting under the tree whatever you wish is  fulfilled immediately. Immortality flows from that tree. It is also mentioned that there is the city of Brahman, where there is a palace named as “prabhuvmitam” built by Brahma himself, which shines like gold. Upanishads describe these mystical experiences of Consciousness are symbolical, which are achieved by constant practice of Brahmacharya.

Mantra-4: When they attain through Brahmacharya, the two oceans “Ara” and “Nya” in Brahmaloka, that Brahmaloka is theirs, and they can then move freely in all the worlds.

Brahmaloka is not a physical region like this Earth. It is a state of being. All these would be in our reach provided we are able to withdraw our senses and mind under control to fix centre of our consciousness in nothing but Brahman. Then we are free, and this freedom is called moksha~ liberation.

Section-6 [Six Mantras]Course after Death:

Mantra-1: Orange, blue, yellow, red, are not less in man’s arteries than in the Sun.

The heart is the place where one meditates on Brahman. The heart is said to be shaped like a lotus bud, and it also has some similarities to the Sun. The sun emits its rays, which spread out in all directions. These veins are filled with a very thin substance. The substance changes its color, and along with it veins also change color. Sun also changes color likewise.

Mantra-2: As a long highway passes between two villages, one at either end, so the Sun’s rays pass between this world and the world beyond. they flow from the Sun, enter into the arteries, flow back from the arteries, enter into the Sun.

We must follow what Upanishad is saying in this Mantra. there is a real live connection between Sun and us here in this Earth. The rays are connection between Sun and this world full of living beings, starting from microbes, algae, trees etc. This connection is not an imagination. It is real and integral connection of Sun with Earth to sustain life on Earth. It is an integral system that involves Sun and its family [all being on earth]

Mantra-3: When man is asleep, enjoying his sleep, he creates no dream; his soul sleeps in the arteries. No evil can touch him, for he is filled with light.

When a person is in deep sleep, he is free from all worries. In deep sleep,  mind lies inactive, desires nothing, dreams nothing, and knows nothing. This is his intellectual condition. Because of his union with the Self and his unbroken knowledge of it, he is filled with joy. he knows his joy and his mind is illuminated.

Mantra-4: When a person is dying, those around him ask if he knows them. As long as there is life left in the body, he recognizes them.

At the time of death, mind is compelled by the pranas to withdraw itself into its source, no sensation, no thought, no recognition remains whatsoever. Then what happens to that person?

Mantra-5: But when the life leaves the body, ascending with the Sus’s rays, he meditates on OM and with the speed of thought, goes to the Sun. Sun is the gate of the Heaven, where the wise can pass.

The essence of this mantra is about the journey to Brahmaloka after death of a person. Those who knows the meaning of OM and think on OM, while leaving this body on Earth, enters into Brahmaloka. When the dying person leaves the body, he quickly goes to the Sun, ascending through Sun rays. The time taken to reach the Sun[Brahmaloka] is compared with the time taken by the mind to change from one thought to another thought. It is as fast as that. Please read Section-15 of Chandagyo Upanishad  about ” A Sick Man on his death bed”

Mantra-6: In this connection there is a sloka which says: There are a hundred and one arteries leading to the heart; one of them pierces the crown of the head. He who goes upward through it, attains immortality; he who does not, is born again.

Katha Upanishad, Mantra-2.3.16 : One among these hundred and one moves vertically, as it were towards the crown of the head. this is usually called the sushumna-nadi. If our prana and mind can travel through this central nerve current called the sushumna and up through the crown of the head, we attain immortality.

Conclusion:

The Upanishad in this section describes that there are psychic nerve centres(chakra) along the region of the spine and also “Nadis”[channels] which start from heart-space and spread all over the body in thousands, like the rays of the Sun. In Deep sleep these rays enter the heart-space, and we experience great serenity in the absence of dream and waking experiences which are the cause of sufferings. Kundalini Yoga describes tis in details.

The link for reading text in Sanskrit is here:-   Chandgoya Upanishad 

Recommended readings:

  1. Back to the Truth: 5000 years of ADVAITA by Dennis Waite. **
  2. THE TEN PRINCIPAL UPANISHADS: Translated by Shree Purohit** Swami and W.B.Yeats
  3. Brahma Sutra Bhasya of Sankaracharya: Translated by Swami Gambhirananda.**
  4. Commentary of ChAndogya Upanishad: By Swami Krishnananda.
  5. ChAndogya Upanishad: By Swami GuruBhaktananda.
  6. EIGHT UPANISADS -VOL-1 with commentary of Sankaracharya, Translated by SWAMI GAMBHIRANANDA.
  7. THE TAITTIRIYA UPANISHAD: SHIKSHAVALLI-ANANDAVALLI-BHRIGUVALLI with Sri Shankara’s Commentary By Sri Swami Satchidanandera Saraswati.
  8. A-U-M Awakening to Reality: By Dennis Waite***
  9. Panchadasi: Swami Vidyaranya:
  10. Information available on internet.

It is my sincere request to the esteemed readers to share their opinion 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 continuation of the topic from the beginning. My mail ID is: arun7663@gmail.com

Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-8A

Introduction: Eighth Chapter:

The ChAndogya Upanishad is part of ChAndogya Brahmana of the Sama Veda which is one of the largest important Upanishads with Eight Chapters (Prapathakas) with many Mantras(verses )including some stories as themes to gain Upanishadic knowledge. This Upanishad is placed in the 9th position in the list of Ten Principal Upanishads. The name of the Upanishad is derived from the word “Chanda” (Rhythm~ poetic meter).

**This Upanishad directly deals with the true nature of Brahman, the Supreme Self, without a second.

ChAndogya Upanishad consists of Eight chapters. The first five chapters forms the part of Karma Kanda[ rituals] and Upasana Kanda [worship and meditation]. Chapter- 6, 7 and 8 form the part of Jnana Kanda[profound Self-knowledge].

The essence of the Teaching is: – “Brahma Vidya”

Brahma Vidya: It is the knowledge of the ultimate Truth which results in Self realisation. The knower of this Truth remains untouched by any situation in life.

This chapter is especially intended for those who are unable to grasp the vastness of “Absolute”, the subject like Bhooma Vidya (Infinity), taught in the previous chapter. Though this chapter confines itself to the Heart of an individual, but that does not limit itself to the body of an individual. The heart here mentioned is used as symbol as the center of the pure subjectivity in us and therefore heart refers to consciousness, which is apparently located within the walls of the body, but never limited to physical body.

A request to my readers: Please read my previous posts on ChAndogya Upanishad, especially 6th & 7th chapter. Links are given below:

  1. Chapter Six: Section-1 to Section-4(Khanda-1 to Khanda-4). The link is here: Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-6A of 6
  2. Chapter Six: Section-5 to Section-8(Khanda-5 to Khanda-8). The link is here: Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-6B of 6
  3. Chapter Six: Section-9 to Section-16(Khanda-9 to Khanda-16). The link is here: Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-6C of 6[END OF 6TH CHAPTER]
  4. Chapter-7 : Section-1 to Section-6 has been discussed. The link is here:- Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-7A
  5. Chapter-7 : Section-7 to Section-12 has been discussed. The link is here:- Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-7B
  6. Chapter-7 : Section-13 to Section-22: The link is here:- Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-7C
  7. Chapter-7 : Section-23 to Section-27: The link is here:- Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-7D[FINAL PART]

This post is part-1[8A] of Eighth Chapter of Chandagyo Upanishad. Section-1 to Section-3 discussed here.

Section-1: [Six Mantras]: 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 Chidaakaash Within:


“Within the City of Brahman, which is the Body, there is the Heart, and within the Heart there is a little house. The house has the shape of a Lotus, and within it dwells that which shines by its own light which is to be sought after, inquired about, and realized. What is there in that space? One should know what is there? Why it is so important? We will try to know that from the following Mantras.

** The Body is the abode of Brahman, the Self. In that Body, the core-centre is at Heart. Within heart is a “dahara”, the space, which is not akasha , one of the five basic elements, as we have seen earlier. This akasha is “Chidaakaash”, the space of Consciousness.

Mantra-3: Heart is emblem of the Cosmic Secret:

Teacher said: “You ask me what is inside this little space. I tell you that everything is inside there.” There is as much in that little space within the heart, as there is in the whole Universe outside. Heaven, Earth, Fire, Wind, Sun, Moon, Lightning, Stars, whatever is and whatever is not, everything is there.
[*** HOLOGRAPHIC UNIVERSE] It is an emblem of the cosmic secret. Whatever is the extent of this vast space that is outside, that is the extent of this little space in our heart also. The whole of the celestial sphere can be found inside this little space. The principles of the five elements, – earth, water, fire, air, and ether- and everything you see or do not see, all are present here in this little space.

Mantra-4-5: Teacher continues:-

What lies in that space, does not decay when the body decays, nor does it fall when the body falls. That space is the home of Brahman. Every desire is there. Self is there, beyond decay and death; sin and sorrow; hunger and thirst; His aim Truth, His will Truth. Man can live in the body as long as he obeys the law, as man may live in a certain farm, in a certain town, in a certain province, or wherever he wishes, if he obeys the law.

** 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.

Mantra-6: Swarajyam

As just in this world, the Region won by action perishes, so does perish in the other world, the Region won by righteous deeds. Earthly pleasers exhaust themselves; heavenly pleasures exhaust themselves. Wherever men go without attaining Self or knowing the Truth, they can not move at their pleasure; but after attaining Self and knowing Truth, wherever they go, they move at their pleasure.

** We know all the wealth accumulated by one exhausts or perishes with time. Likewise, heavenly enjoyments which are acquired by the good deeds( through sacrifices etc) also exhausts after certain time. Therefore, who dies without realising the Self, the Truth, can not find eternal happiness wherever he goes. But for those who know the Self can attain eternal happiness wherever he goes , means in whichever Loka he goes.

Section-2 [Ten Mantras]: Different higher worlds

Mantra-1. If a person wants to see someone, say a forefather in the other world, he can see him at once. There is no such thing as other world for a person who has Realised the “Atman”
Mantra-2. If a man wants the company of his fathers, all he need to do is to Will it. They will appear and make him happy.
Mantra-3. If he wants the company of his mothers, all he need to do is to Will it. They will appear and make him happy.
Mantra-4. If he wants the company of his brothers, all he need to do is to Will it. They will appear and make him happy.
Mantra-5. If he wants the company of his sisters, all he need to do is to Will it. They will appear and make him happy.
Mantra-6. If he wants the company of his friends, all he need to do is to Will it. They will appear and make him happy.
Mantra-7. If he wants women, all he need to do is to Will it. They will appear and make him happy.
Mantra-8. If he wants perfume or flowers, all he need to do is to Will it. It will appear and make him happy.
Mantra-9. If he wants food and drinks, all he need to do is to Will it. It will appear and make him happy.
Mantra-10. If he wants a thing or a place, all he need to do is to Will it. It will appear and make him happy.

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.

Section-3 [Five Mantras]: The Space within the Heart:

Desires are true but covered by falsehood:

त इमे सत्याः कामा अनृतापिधानास्तेषाꣳ सत्यानाꣳ
सतामनृतमपिधानं यो यो ह्यस्येतः प्रैति न तमिह
दर्शनाय लभते ॥ ८.३.१॥

Mantra-1. Those justified desires which are such, remain covered by falsehood. Falsehood is the cover for those existing true desires because whosoever of one’s relatives departs from here, is not available to be seen here again.

Unfailing desires are covered by falsehood. That means desires are indeed true, but they are covered by falsehood. Truth means vision for the things as they are in reality and falsehood means which opposes that reality. In reality things are not disconnected from one another. But for our wrong notions, we see the things different from one another in this Universe. Therefore, what we perceive as different worlds, is not different. It is for the varying consciousness of the limited self; we experience different worlds. What we consider as different “lokas”[realms of being] are actually one and present in our heart. When “jivatma” is imprisoned in a particular body, then due to finite and limited consciousness, it appears that jivatma is different from external world. But truly it is not!

अथ ये चास्येह जीवा ये च प्रेता यच्चान्यदिच्छन्न
लभते सर्वं तदत्र गत्वा विन्दतेऽत्र ह्यस्यैते सत्याः
कामा अनृतापिधानास्तद्यथापि हिरण्यनिधिं निहितमक्षेत्रज्ञा
उपर्युपरि सञ्चरन्तो न विन्देयुरेवमेवेमाः सर्वाः प्रजा
अहरहर्गच्छन्त्य एतं ब्रह्मलोकं न विन्दन्त्यनृतेन हि
प्रत्यूढाः ॥ ८.३.२॥

Wise man sees everything in Self:

Mantra-2. Again, those of his relatives who are still alive and those who are dead, and also those things a person cannot get even if he wishes for them-all these he gets by going within his heart. All true desires of a person are in his heart, though they are hidden. It is like when there is gold hidden some place underground and people who are ignorant of it walk over that spot again and again, knowing nothing about it. Similarly, all these beings go to Brahmaloka every day, and yet they know nothing about it because they are covered by ignorance.

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 and 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.

Self stays in the heart:

Mantra-3. Self stays in the heart; heart, a word that seems to say here it is. Who 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. A wise man, leaving his body, joins the flame; is one with His own nature. That nature is Self, fearless immortal Brahman.

Knowledge is associated with light. ” Tamasah ma jyotih gamaya- lead us from darkness to light. Means lead us from darkness of ignorance to the light of knowledge. Mandukya Upanishad has explained in details that during Awaking condition we are more attached to our body and try to enjoy through our sense organs. That becomes the cause of unhappiness. When we overcome our desires [which are active during awaking condition], we find our true nature. Our true nature is free from fear and full of Bliss.

Mantra-5. Whatever binds mortal and immortal, they call truth. Who knows this, daily enjoys the Kingdom of Heaven.

This Mantra says that Sa, ti, and yam – these are the three syllables which represent Brahman. Sa = Immortal, ti = mortal, yam = controls mortal and immortal. He who knows this enjoys divine bliss everyday in dreamless sleep.

Conclusion:

This chapter states that in this Body is “City of Brahman” and in that city there is a palace shaped like a lotus. In that palace there is a little space within the Heart. It is special because the entire Universe is contained within it. If everything is in man’s body, every being, every desire, what remains when old age comes, when decay begins, when the body falls? What lies in that space, does not decay when the body decays, nor does it fall when the body falls. That space is the home of Brahman, the Supreme. Every desire is there. Self is there, beyond decay and death; sin and sorrow; hunger and thirst. Self stays in heart. Heart, a word that seems to say, “here it is”. Who knows this, daily enjoys the kingdom of Heaven [DEEP SLEEP~ “susupti”].

The link for reading text in Sanskrit is here:- Chandgoya Upanishad

Recommended readings:

  1. Back to the Truth: 5000 years of ADVAITA by Dennis Waite. **
  2. THE TEN PRINCIPAL UPANISHADS: Translated by Shree Purohit** Swami and W.B.Yeats
  3. Brahma Sutra Bhasya of Sankaracharya: Translated by Swami Gambhirananda.**
  4. Commentary of ChAndogya Upanishad: By Swami Krishnananda.
  5. ChAndogya Upanishad: By Swami GuruBhaktananda.
  6. EIGHT UPANISADS -VOL-1 with commentary of Sankaracharya, Translated by SWAMI GAMBHIRANANDA.
  7. THE TAITTIRIYA UPANISHAD: SHIKSHAVALLI-ANANDAVALLI-BHRIGUVALLI with Sri Shankara’s Commentary By Sri Swami Satchidanandera Saraswati.
  8. A-U-M Awakening to Reality: By Dennis Waite***
  9. Panchadasi: Swami Vidyaranya:
  10. Information available on internet.

It is my sincere request to the esteemed readers to share their opinion 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 continuation of the topic from the beginning. My mail ID is: arun7663@gmail.com

*THE CITY OF BRAHMAN*

Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-7D[FINAL PART]

Introduction: Seventh Chapter:

The ChAndogya Upanishad is part of ChAndogya Brahmana of the Sama Veda which is one of the largest important Upanishads with Eight Chapters (Prapathakas) with many verses including some stories as themes to gain Upanishadic knowledge. This Upanishad is placed in the 9th position in the list of Ten Principal Upanishads. The name of the Upanishad is derived from the word   “Chanda” (Rhythm~ poetic meter).

**This Upanishad directly deals with the true nature of Brahman, the Supreme Self, without a second.

ChAndogya Upanishad consists of Eight chapters. The first five chapters forms the part of Karma Kanda and Upasana Kanda. Chapter- 6, 7 and 8 form the part of Jnana Kanda.

The essence of the Teaching is: – The Infinite Bliss ~ “Bhumaiva Sukham”

This post is final part [7-D] of Chapter-7 of Chandagyo Upanishad. Section-23 to Section-27. 

*First part of Chapter-7 has been published in my blog, where Section-1 to Section-6 has been discussed. The link is here:- Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-7A

** Second part of Chapter-7 : From Section-7 to Section-12 has been discussed. The link is here:- Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-7B

*** Third part of Chapter-7 contains discussion on  Mantras from Section-13 to Section-22: The link is here:- Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-7C

A request to my readers: Please read my previous posts on ChAndogya Upanishad, especially 6th chapter. Links are given below:

  1. Chapter Six: Section-1 to Section-4(Khanda-1 to Khanda-4). The link is here:  Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-6A of 6
  2. Chapter Six: Section-5 to Section-8(Khanda-5 to Khanda-8). The link is here: Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-6B of 6
  3. Chapter Six: Section-9 to Section-16(Khanda-9 to Khanda-16). The link is here: Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-6C of 6[END OF 6TH CHAPTER]

॥ छान्दोग्योपनिषत्  –  सप्तमोऽध्यायः ॥

Structure of 7th Chapter!

Part-6: Section: 23-27 (Total 6 Mantras):        ” BHOOMA~ The Infinite“

We are in the final part of 7th Chapter of Chandagyo Upanishad. In this section we will learn about the characteristics of The Infinite [ Bhooma]. First two mantras give us definition, next two mantras describe the qualities, and the final two mantras give the scriptural support on the Truth.

Section-23: “Bhoomaa”– The Infinite (1 mantra):

यो वै भूमा तत्सुखं नाल्पे सुखमस्ति भूमैव सुखं
भूमा त्वेव विजिज्ञासितव्य इति भूमानं भगवो
विजिज्ञास इति ॥ ७.२३.१॥

Mantra-23.1: The Infinite alone is happiness: [त्रयोविंशः खण्डः ]

Only that which is Infinite, is true Happiness, There is no happiness in anything finite. ” The Infinite alone is Happiness. But the “Infinite” one must desire to understand.

Narada: ” Revered Sir, the Infinite I do desire to understand.

भूमैव सुखं : “Bhumaiva Sukham”: 1) That which is Infinite is true Happiness. 2) There is no Happiness in anything finite. 3) The Infinite alone is Happiness. 

Section-24: “Moksha”– Liberation (2 mantras):

Mantra-24.1: The State of Liberation:

24.1.1: The Infinite and the finite Defined:

That in which one sees nothing else, hears nothing else, and understands nothing else- That is Infinite. But that in which one sees something else, hears something else, and understands something else- that is the Finite. That which is Infinite, is alone immortal; but that which is finite, is mortal.

24.1.2: The basis of Infinite:

Narada: ” Revered Sir, In what that Infinite is established”?

Sanatkumara:” In its greatness or even not in its greatness.”

Mantra-24.2: Mutual Dependence:

The cows and horses are called “greatness” here in this world, as also elephants and gold, servants and wives, fields, and buildings. I do not call this greatness, in fact, I call what has been described above as ” mutual dependence.”

[ The common, worldly type of greatness rests in one’s possessions. For worldly people, what one possesses determines their greatness. Greatness is a relative term. A thing can only be great in comparison to something else which is not great. Like a king is great relative to his countrymen. That is what is meant by Mutual Independence.]

Section-25: “Swaraat”– Independence (2 mantras):

Mantra-25.1: The Infinite, the ” I ” & the Self:

Mantra-25.1.1: The Infinite alone Exists:

That alone is below. That alone is above; That is behind, That is in front; That is to the south, and to the north; That Infinite alone is all this.

Mantra-25.1.2: The “I-Notion” alone Exists:

Next is the teaching with respect to the “I-Notion”. “I” alone am below, I am above; I am behind, I am in front; I am to the south, I am to the north; I alone am all this.

Mantra-25.1.3: The “Self” alone Exists:

Next is the teaching with respect to the “Self”. The Self alone is below and above, the Self is behind and in front; the Self is to the south and north; the Self alone is all this.

[ ** Infinite = "I" = Atman. 1. The Infinite Itself is all That there is. 2. The "I"- notion in the individual is Itself all That there is. 3. The Atman or Sef Itself all That there is.]

Mantra-25.2: The ” Sovereign and the Slave”:

Mantra-25.2.1: The Sovereign is free:

Verily, he who sees thus, who reflects and understands; thus, He revels and sports in the Self, he unites in and enjoy the Self. He becomes the Sovereign of all the worlds. He is free to act as he wishes.

Mantra-25.2.2: The Slave is ruled by others:

But who know other than this, they are ruled by others (the slaves), and live in perishable worlds. In all the worlds, they are not free to act as they wish.

[** Analysis:  Here sage Sanatkumara is pointing to the final state. Aatma- Ratih, Aatma- Kreedah, Aatma- Mithuna, Aatma-Anandah- this is the state he himself must be revelling in all the time. Now what is required to reach this state? It is very simple. Follow the meaning of the words: Evam Pashyan, Evam Manvaan, Evam Vijnaanan. All these means: – ” See nothing else”, “Reflect on nothing else”, and ” Understand nothing else”. Nothing other than Infinite. The state of freedom of one is then established in Infinity. All previous levels from Name to Hope, were limited to the worlds of finite. Upon reaching this state the Aspirants become ” Swaraat” – the all-powerful status of being a Self-Sovereign, independent ruler of himself.]

Section-26: The Vision of the “Ativadi”– (1 mantra):

Mantra-26.1: Greatness of the Realised Sage:

Mantra-26.1.1: The requisites for Sovereignty:

Verily, for him alone who sees thus, reflects thus, and understands thus. 

Mantra-26.1.2: The state of Sovereignty: “Atma-Svarajya”

  1. Prana Springs from the Self.
  2. Aspiration Springs from the Self.
  3. Memory Springs from the Self.
  4. Space Springs from the Self.
  5. Fire Springs from the Self.
  6. Water Springs from the Self.
  7. Appearance and disappearance Spring from the Self.
  8. Food Springs from the Self.
  9. Strength Springs from the Self.
  10. Understand Springs from the Self.
  11. Contemplation Springs from the Self.
  12. Intelligence Springs from the Self.
  13. Will Springs from the Self.
  14. Mind Springs from the Self.
  15. Speech Springs from the Self.
  16. Name Springs from the Self.
  17. Hymns (Upasana Kanda) Springs from the Self.
  18. Rites (Karma Kanda) Springs from the Self: All these Spring from the Self alone!!

Section-27: Supporting scriptural verses: “Slokas” (1 mantra):

तदेष श्लोको: On this there are scriptural verses as follows: –

तदेष श्लोको न पश्यो मृत्युं पश्यति न रोगं नोत दुःखताꣳ
सर्वꣳ ह पश्यः पश्यति सर्वमाप्नोति सर्वश इति
स एकधा भवति त्रिधा भवति पञ्चधा
सप्तधा नवधा चैव पुनश्चैकादशः स्मृतः
शतं च दश चैकश्च सहस्राणि च
विꣳशतिराहारशुद्धौ सत्त्वशुद्धौ ध्रुवा स्मृतिः
स्मृतिलम्भे सर्वग्रन्थीनां विप्रमोक्षस्तस्मै
मृदितकषायाय तमसस्पारं दर्शयति
भगवान्सनत्कुमारस्तꣳ स्कन्द इत्याचक्षते
तꣳ स्कन्द इत्याचक्षते ॥ ७.२६.२॥

Mantra-27.1: Three supporting Slokas:

Mantra-27.1.1: The Seer of the Infinite:

He who sees does not see death, nor illness, nor sorrow. he who sees this sees all things and obtains all things in all ways.

Mantra-27.1.2: One Becomes Many:

He who is One, becomes three-fold, five-fold, seven-fold and also nine-fold. Then again, he is called eleven-fold, and hundred-fold, then hundred-and-eleven-fold, twenty-thousand-fold.

** Analysis of One into Many:

One: Brahman

Three-fold: Causal, subtle, and Gross; Waking, dreaming, and Sleeping, Past, Present, and Future.

Five-fold: Five Elements, Five Koshas, Five Pranas.

Seven-fold: Sapta Dhatus, Sapta rishis, Sapta Divas, sapta Swara, sapta Lokas, Seven colors.

Nine-fold: Nava Durga, Nine doors in the Body.

Ten-fold: Disha, Avatara, Vidyas.

Eleven-fold: Rudras

And so on……

Mantra-27.1.3: Three major steps:

  • Pure food creates pure intellect.
  • Pure intellect creates strong memory.
  • Strong memory cuts all the knots of the Heart.

** Note: Cuts all the knots of the Heart means detaching Ego from Consciousness. This teaching has been seen in Katha Upanishad also [Mantra-2.3.15: Katha Upanishad: – “When the knot of the heart is cut, the mortal becomes Immortal. This alone is the Teaching”.]

THREE MAJOR STEPS

Mantra-27.1.4: The Final Stage: 

भगवान्सनत्कुमारस्तꣳ स्कन्द इत्याचक्षते
तꣳ स्कन्द इत्याचक्षते ॥ ७.२६.२॥

Sage Sanatkumara leads beyond the darkness those that have washed their impurities away. Hence men call him the Great commander, men call him the great Commander.

Conclusion:

Finally, the Great sage sanatkumara defined “Bhooma” the ABSOLUTE. This is Infinite. Here one sees nothing except one’s own Self, hears nothing except one’s own Self, understands nothing except one’s own Self, Bhooma alone is Immortal. This Eternal is Present Everywhere. It can not be that It is located in something else, and It is dependent on something else. Nor It has something else as It’s support. Neither It is not dependent on something else. This is all- being, support of all things. He who Realizes this enjoys ” Atma-Svarajya” [state of Sovereignty] means Universal Lordship. Every realm of being becomes a free passage to this great one who has acquired this knowledge. The person becomes possessed of Cosmic freedom.

End of Chapter-7 ” The Infinite Bliss”

The link for reading text in Sanskrit is here:-   Chandgoya Upanishad 

Recommended readings:

  1. Back to the Truth: 5000 years of ADVAITA by Dennis Waite. **
  2. THE TEN PRINCIPAL UPANISHADS: Translated by Shree Purohit** Swami and W.B.Yeats
  3. Brahma Sutra Bhasya of Sankaracharya: Translated by Swami Gambhirananda.**
  4. Commentary of ChAndogya Upanishad: By Swami Krishnananda.
  5. ChAndogya Upanishad: By Swami GuruBhaktananda.
  6. EIGHT UPANISADS -VOL-1 with commentary of Sankaracharya, Translated by SWAMI GAMBHIRANANDA.
  7. THE TAITTIRIYA UPANISHAD: SHIKSHAVALLI-ANANDAVALLI-BHRIGUVALLI with Sri Shankara’s Commentary By Sri Swami Satchidanandera Saraswati.
  8. A-U-M Awakening to Reality: By Dennis Waite***
  9. Panchadasi: Swami Vidyaranya:
  10. Information available on internet.

It is my sincere request to the esteemed readers to share their opinion 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 continuation of the topic from the beginning. My mail ID is: arun7663@gmail.com

Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-7C

Introduction: Seventh Chapter:

The ChAndogya Upanishad is part of ChAndogya Brahmana of the Sama Veda which is one of the largest important Upanishads with Eight Chapters (Prapathakas) with many verses including some stories as themes to gain Upanishadic knowledge. This Upanishad is placed in the 9th position in the list of Ten Principal Upanishads. The name of the Upanishad is derived from the word   “Chanda” (Rhythm~ poetic meter).

**This Upanishad directly deals with the true nature of Brahman, the Supreme Self, without a second.

ChAndogya Upanishad consists of Eight chapters. The first five chapters forms the part of Karma Kanda and Upasana Kanda. Chapter- 6, 7 and 8 form the part of Jnana Kanda.

 There are 24 sections in Chapter Seven. Here we will discuss on Chapter-7, Section-13 to Section-22 to learn profound knowledge through a dialog between: Narada (the disciple) and Sage Sanatkumar.

The essence of the Teaching is: – The Infinite Bliss ~ “Bhumaiva Sukham”

* First part of Chapter-7 has been published in my blog, where Section-1 to Section-6 has been discussed. The link is here:- Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-7A

** Second part of Chapter-7 has been published. From Section-7 to Section-12 has been discussed. The link is here:- Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-7B

A request to my readers: Please read my previous posts on ChAndogya Upanishad, especially 6th chapter. Links are given below:

  1. Chapter Six: Section-1 to Section-4(Khanda-1 to Khanda-4). The link is here:  Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-6A of 6
  2. Chapter Six: Section-5 to Section-8(Khanda-5 to Khanda-8). The link is here: Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-6B of 6
  3. Chapter Six: Section-9 to Section-16(Khanda-9 to Khanda-16). The link is here: Essence of ChAndogya Upanishad: Part-6C of 6[END OF 6TH CHAPTER]

॥ छान्दोग्योपनिषत्  –  सप्तमोऽध्यायः ॥

Structure of 7th Chapter!

In this post we will start from Mantra-12.2.2: Is there anything above “Aakaashah”[Space]

Narada: ” Sir, Is there anything above Space”?

Sanatkumara:” Yes, there is something above”

Narada: ” Sir, then please elaborate.”

After completing section-12, we have reached to the higher level of knowledge which is beyond Space. Now let us think beyond Time. The cause and effect. If creation of Universe is an effect, then there must be some Cause. What is that? Let us try to find it out prom following sections.

Part-4: Section: 13-15 (Total 8 Mantras):        ” ISHWARA~ The Causal Being“

Our existence is essential for the existence of Space. Therefore, Consciousness of Self-existence is fundamental for determining factor of the Consciousness of this vast expanse that we call Space. Hence, the word “smara” has to be understood differently. It does not merely mean a kind of memory only. Here, the essence of the section is to teach the aspirant for attaining higher levels. It is to be understood that a person should meditate on the supreme self-Consciousness, which is above Space.

Section-13: ” Smarah”- Memory[2 Verses]

Our Self-Consciousness, the self-Consciousness of every being is above Space, which determines the character of Space.

Mantra-13.1.1:  Memory is above Space.

Mantra-13.1.2 The greatness of Memory:

Take away memory from men, they no longer hear, think, or understand. Give back their memory, they hear, they think and understand. Through memory we recognise our children and cattle.

Mantra-13.1.3: Therefore, worship Memory.

Mantra-13.2: Beyond Memory:

Mantra-13.2.1: The Fruit gained by Worshiping Memory.

He, who worships Memory as brahman, attains the receptacles of light, free from sorrow, free from bondage, moves within the limits of Memory, as it may please him, provided he worships Memory as nothing but Brahman.

Mantra-13.2.2: Is there anything above “Smarah”[Memory]

Narada: ” Sir, Is there anything above Memory”?

Sanatkumara:” Yes, there is something above Memory”

Narada: ” Sir, then please elaborate.”

Section-14: ” Aashaa”- Aspiration [2 Verses]

Mantra-14.1.1:  Aspiration is above Memory.

Mantra-14.1.2 The greatness of Aspiration:

Indeed, kindled by aspiration, men recites the sacred words, does this or that, performs rites, desires children and property, longs for life here and thereafter.

Mantra-14.1.3: Therefore, worship Aspiration.

Mantra-14.2: Beyond Aspiration:

Mantra-14.2.1: The Fruit gained by Worshiping Aspiration.

He, who worships aspiration  as Brahman, gets all he wants, never goes a blessing in vain, moves within the limits of aspiration, as it may please him, provided he worships aspiration as nothing but Brahman.

Mantra-14.2.2: Is there anything above “Aashaa”[Aspiration]

Narada: ” Sir, Is there anything above Aspiration”?

Sanatkumara:” Yes, there is something above Aspiration”

Narada: ” Sir, then please elaborate.”

Section-15: ” Praanah”- Life Force[4 Verses]

Mantra-15.1.1: Life Force is above Aspiration

Mantra-15.1.2: Life Force-As spokes fastened to wheel.

Prana (Breath) is verily the life of beings and hence it is called the Universal life. It is matter of common knowledge that life becomes possible only so long as the vital energy keeps the different organs of the organism alive.
Though this vital life force makes the body animated and actions are performed but this is not the “Real Self”. 

Mantra-15.1.3: Praanah~ as Mover, Life, and Giver

Everything is fixed in praanah. Praanah lives by praanah. Praanah gives for praanah. Praanah gives power.

“Praanah” is vital energy and invisible to us. It is like Electric Power ,which gives life to the machines and machines run, animates.  Same way this vital energy “Praanah” animates us, the live bodies.  It runs the 1st layer the Physical body. This praanah is external to further subtler energy which is Mind. The mind is so subtle and transparent, that  mind can reflect consciousness. 

Mantra-15.1.4: Praanah~ as Kith and kin

  • Praanah is the father.

  • Praanah is the mother.

  • Praanah is the bother.

  • Praanah is the sister.

  • Praanah is the Guru.

  • Praanah is the Acharya.

Mantra-15.2: Praanah~ Being cruel on living:

If a man speak cruel words to a father, mother, sister, brother, Guru, people say: “Shame upon you for such cruelty. You are indeed a slayer of your father; You are indeed a slayer of your brother; You are indeed a slayer of your sister; You are indeed a slayer of your Guru or Acharya!”

Mantra-15.3: Praanah~ Performing last Rites:

If, life once gone, somebody shoves them ( who are dead among kith and kin) back on to the funeral pyre with a poker, where is the cruelty? Surely no one would blame him: ” You are slayer of your father”; nor ” You are slayer of your brother”; nor ” You are slayer of your sister”; nor ” You are slayer of your Guru or Acharya”.

Mantra-15.4.1: “Ativaadi” the Realized Sage

Praanah, indeed, alone becomes all these. He indeed who sees thus (Sravana), reflects thus (Manana), and realizes thus (Nididhyasana) becomes an ” Ativaadi” the Realized Sage.

Mantra-15.4.2: “Ativaadi” The title becomes a complement:

If someone were to say to you: ” You are an Ativaadi, ” You should say, “yes, I am an Ativaadi” You should not deny it, It is a complement.

Part-5: Section: 16-23 (Total 8 Mantras):        ” Sadhana~ Spiritual Practice“

Who is Ativaadi?

There are certainly some steps which are to be followed to become “Ativaadi”. The steps are to be considered as essential requirement (sadhana) to attend permanent happiness. The steps are listed below:

We will learn about the steps from the following sections:

Section-16: ” Satyam”- Truth[1 Verse]

Mantra-16.1: Who is an ativaadin?

Sanatkumara:” But he really is an ativaadin who speaks with Truth about the Truth “

Narada: ” Revered Sir, if that is so, I would speak with Truth about the Truth”

Sanatkumara:”But first, one must desire to understand the Truth”.

Narada: ” Revered Sir, I do desire to understand the Truth”.

**This earnest desire to know the Truth is called “Jijnaasa” [enquiry]

Section-17:”Vijnaanah”- Realisation [1 Verse]

Mantra-17.1: Who is a Realised One?

Sanatkumara:” Only when one is Realised, then one can declare the Truth”. Without realising, no one can declare Truth. But one must desire to understand what Realisation is!

Narada: ” Revered Sir, I do desire to understand Realisation”.

Section-18:”Matih”- Reflection [1 Verse]

Mantra-18.1: Who is qualified to Reflect?

Sanatkumara:” Only when one Reflects, then does one Realise”. No, without reflecting, one can not Realise. Only he who reflects, Realises. But one must desire to understand what Reflection is!

Narada: ” Revered Sir, I do desire to understand Reflection”.

Section-19:”Shraddha”- Faith [1 Verse]

Mantra-19.1: Who is full of Faith?

Sanatkumara:” Only when one becomes full of Faith, then can one reflect. Without Faith, no one can reflect. He who has Faith only reflects. But one must desire to understand what Faith is!

Narada: ” Revered Sir, I do desire to understand Faith”.

Section-20:”Nishthaa”- Steadfastness: Devotion [1 Verse]

Mantra-20.1: Who is full of Steadfastness?

Sanatkumara:” Only when one becomes full of steadfastness (devotion), then can one be full of faith. Without Steadfastness, no one can have faith. He who has steadfastness can  only have faith. But one must desire to understand what Steadfastness is!

Narada: ” Revered Sir, I do desire to understand Steadfastness”.

Section-21:”Kritih”- Activity:[1 Verse]

Mantra-21.1: Who is truly Active?

Sanatkumara:” Only when one is given to Action, then can one be full of Steadfastness. No, without action, one can not have steadfastness. He who acts can be steadfast. But one must desire to understand what Activity is!

Narada: ” Revered Sir, I do desire to understand Activity”.

Section-22:”Sukham”- Happiness:[1 Verse]

Mantra-22.1: Who is truly Happy?

Sanatkumara:” Only when one expects to obtain Happiness, then does one Act. Without expecting Happiness, one does not Act. Only to obtain Happiness does one Act. But one must desire to understand what Happiness is!

Narada: ” Revered Sir, I do desire to understand Happiness”.

Section-16 to Section-22 primarily teaches about three stages which are very essential for progressing in the path of acquiring Happiness. Three stages are as below:

1.Sravana :  Knowing the Truth: Listening to the teachings of the sages on Vedanta. Now instead of Sravana, we can use the word Study of Vedanta, because Sravana was the practice during early Vedic period as no method of writing existed.

2.Manana :Reflection is necessary: This stage is the reflection on the teachings. This means thinking about what has been heard and subjecting that into a reason based on experience gained.

3.Nididhyasana : “Faith and Steadfastness”: Stage of meditation on the Truth. It is the culmination of the practice of Sravana and Manana. We may see what BRRihadAraNyaka Upanishad says  on Nididhyasana. ” The Self , my dear Maitreyi, should be realized-should be heard of , reflected on and meditated upon; by the realization of the self, my dear”.

Sravana, Manana, Nididhyasana leads us to intuition (aparoksha Anubhuti). In this way, “Brahma Kara Vritti “ is generated from “Sattvic anta Karana”. This “Brahma Kara Vritti” destroys the Mula-Avidya or primitive ignorance which is the root cause of all bondage, births, and deaths. When this ignorance or veil is removed, Brahman which is Self effulgent reveals itself in its pristine glory and splendour.

Conclusion:

The thirst for happiness is universal. It is the driving force behind all aspirations of human being.

Now, the question is: Where lies the happiness?

By mere empirical analysis it is difficult to find out where happiness lies, because no scientific analysis of mind can pinpoint the object of happiness. Whether it is outside or it is inside. It is neither in mind nor in any object of sense.

The answer to this question is given by the great Master Sanatkumara. Happiness neither lies in mind nor in any object, because if it is considered to be a property of mind, then it becomes finite. Same thing applies if we consider happiness as a part of object, since objects are also finite. Happiness cannot be regarded as finite because we are not satisfied with limited happiness. We are not happy with finite pleasure of this world.

In the next section: Section -23, we will learn what the Sage sanatkumara is teaching about happiness. Sanatkumara says to Narada: “Happiness is not anywhere and yet, it is everywhere. It is in a completeness of Being that you can find happiness”.

Final part of 7th Chapter “The Infinite Bliss” will be published very soon !!!

Recommended readings:

  1. Back to the Truth: 5000 years of ADVAITA by Dennis Waite. **
  2. THE TEN PRINCIPAL UPANISHADS: Translated by Shree Purohit** Swami and W.B.Yeats
  3. Brahma Sutra Bhasya of Sankaracharya: Translated by Swami Gambhirananda.**
  4. Commentary of ChAndogya Upanishad: By Swami Krishnananda.
  5. ChAndogya Upanishad: By Swami GuruBhaktananda.
  6. EIGHT UPANISADS -VOL-1 with commentary of Sankaracharya, Translated by SWAMI GAMBHIRANANDA.
  7. THE TAITTIRIYA UPANISHAD: SHIKSHAVALLI-ANANDAVALLI-BHRIGUVALLI with Sri Shankara’s Commentary By Sri Swami Satchidanandera Saraswati.
  8. A-U-M Awakening to Reality: By Dennis Waite***
  9. Panchadasi: Swami Vidyaranya:
  10. Information available on internet.

It is my sincere request to the esteemed readers to share their opinion 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 continuation of the topic from the beginning. My mail ID is: arun7663@gmail.com

The Four Great Vedic Statements [ Mahavakyas]

THE FOUR GREAT VEDIC STATEMENTS

Introduction:

What is our Self-identity?

In the profound wisdom of Vedanta, the essence of self-identity lies in recognizing the true nature of the Self. Beyond the transient roles we play and the ever-changing aspects of our existence, the Self is immortal and infinite. It transcends the limitations of time and space, existing beyond the confines of the physical realm.

Four MahaVakyas explain Self-identity.

Through four Mahavakyas, the Vedas guide us to discover our true self-identity, revealing that our essence is immortal, infinite, and beyond the limitations of time and space. Realizing this profound truth leads to liberation and the experience of ultimate bliss and unity with the universe.

Four “MahaVakyas”

There are four great statements (MahaVakyas– Great sayings), one each taken from each of four Vedas by ancient scholars. These are most famous mantras and gives the core knowledge of Veda. Traditionally these well known MahaVakyas are pointers for the aspirants seeking liberation from the cycle of births. Four MahaVakyas will be discussed in this post.

Before knowing the “MahaVakyas”, let us look into one sloka from Taittiriya Upanishad.

“Satyam Jnanam Anantam Brahma”:- 

Above sentence literarily means ‘the knower of “Brahman” attains the Supreme.” Taittiriya 2.1.1 which is the opening sentence of Taittiriya Upanishad. We will try to understand the essence of this sentence.

“Satyam jnanam Anantam Brahman” which means “The knower of “BRAHMAN” attains the Supreme”.  BRAHMAN is Truth, knowledge, and Infinity, which is our own very Self, the Atman.  Brahman is not an object of knowledge.  It is always witnessing subject. (দ্রষ্টা~The Seer).

First of all, we need to know the true meaning of “Brahman”.

Brahman: IT is That which is Absolute, fills all space, is complete in Itself, to which there is no second and which is continuously present in everything, in every being and everywhere. It is homogeneous in nature.

Brahman: It is the key word here!

The word “Brahman” will be used repeatedly. Meaning of Brahman is VAST. This is to be noted here that the word “Brahman” does not refer to any Cast , Creed or Sect. According to Vedanta the word ” Brahman” has been derived from the root word “brh” which means growing or expanding and suffix “man” added to it signifies absence of limitations. In Vedanta, the word Brahman is a neuter gender and hence it is referred as pronoun ” That”. It is very difficult to describe Brahman, which is ultimately indefinable, indescribable, and utterly beyond all human comprehension. Brahman can not be described through senses alone. Vedanta has however taught us how to realize Brahman which is “Supreme Consciousness”. In this article I will try to explain what I understood after reading different Scriptures. Hope readers will find it interesting and worth reading.

From Upanishads we can learn about “Brahman”.  Founder of Advaita Vedanta, 8th century scholar, Shri Adi Shankaracharya said: ” there Exists one Absolute Brahman, who is “Sat-Chit-Ananda” and homogeneous in nature .” Vedanta philosophy is part of the four Vedas are believed to be composed and orally transferred, goes back to 5000 years. The oneness of Soul(Jiva~Atman) and GOD(Param Atman), the ultimate Truth is the principal essence of Vedanta philosophy. 

The Four MahaVakyas are as follows:-

Above photo has been taken from “ANANDA DHAM”, the Ashram of my father’s Guruji. I used to visit ashram since my teen age. That time I did not understand above statements(written in Bengali script). Since then, it was in my mind to know the famous statements:

1) ” prajnAnaM brahma “:Consciousness is Infinite.

This means consciousness is Brahman. This has been taken from Rig Veda ( Aitareya Upanishad): The essence is that Brahman is Supreme knowledge. The absolute reality is the essence of what you really are.

2) ” tat-tvam-asi”: That-Thou-Art.

It means “You are that” which is from Sama Veda (ChAndogya Upanishad).

3) ” ayamAtma brahma”: This Self is the Truth.

Which means This Self is Brahman. It has been selected from Atharva Veda ( maNDukya Upanishad). Atman and Brahman are the same like the waves and the ocean are one.

4) ” aham brahmAsmi”:- I am the Infinite Reality.

Here it means “I am Brahman”. This has been taken from Yajur Veda (bRRihadAraNyaka Upanishad ).   “I AM” is that absolute reality.

Importance of the MahaVakyas:- MahaVakyas contain the essence of ageless Wisdom and Absolute Truth regarding ” Brahman” which is “SAT-CHIT-ANANDA”

To understand above four MahaVakyas, one has to study Vedanta . Vedanta consists of three basic Texts. Together they are referred as ” PRASTHANA TRAYA” , triple canon of Vedanta.

  1. Upanishads ( Shruti Prasthana):

  2. Bhagavad Gita( Smriti Prasthana : Quintessence of the teaching of entire Veda: “samasta-vedanta-sarasangraha-bhutam”).

  3. Brahma Sutra (Nyaya-Prasthana also known as uttarmimamsa sutra).

Those who wish to study the philosophy of Vedanta, may read ” The Ten Principal Upanishads” and the “Brahma Sutra” after reading the “Bhagavad Gita”. In the following paragraphs, I will write brief introduction about Brahma sutra. Rather I will emphasize on Brahma sutra because it is essential to understand the concept of Advaita Vedanta. While explaining Brahma sutra, some references of Upanishads obviously will follow.

There are four chapters in Brahma sutra. First chapter unifies Brahman. Second chapter shows no conflicts between Vedanta and other sastras (sacred texts). The third deals with practice to attain Brahman and the fourth one is result of attaining Brahman which is nothing but fruits of Self realization. The first topic of first chapter of Brahma sutra is “Jijnasadhikaranam” [ Topic-1/first chapter] which means ” The enquiry into Brahman and it’s prerequisites”. The first sentence of this chapter is ” Athato Brahmajijnasa” (Hence thereafter a deliberation on Brahman.1.1.1)

Now, this Text is for whom? A little explanation is essential here.

The Vedanta is for the person who is competent to understand and study sastras(Scriptures) ,has tranquil mind, full of faith, consistently engaged in good thoughts and associates with the knower of Truth. After attainment of certain preliminary qualifications which are known as ” SADHANA CHATUSHTAYA”~ four salvations ,one can progress towards the direction of knowing Brahman. Four salvations are:

  1. “Nitya-Anitya-vastuveveka” which means discrimination between the eternal and non eternal.
  2. ” IhamutrarthaphalabhogaViraga” : Indifference to the joys in this life or in in Heaven, and of the fruits of one’s action.
  3. ” Shatsampat“ : Six-fold virtues that are : i) Sama (Control of mind), ii) Dama ( Control of senses),iii) Uparati (Cessation from worldly enjoyments), iv) Titiksha ( Endurance of pleasure and pain, heat and cold), v) Sraddha (Faith), vi) Samadhana (Deep concentration).
  4. “Mumukshautva” (Desire for liberation).

Even without possessing the knowledge of “Karma Kanda” (Rituals, religious ceremonies), a desire for attaining the knowledge of Brahman( Brahma Gyan) will arise direct from the study of “Srutis”. Therefore, I will recall here the sentence ” A man full of revelation, but without desire has equal joy.” which is written in Sanskrit as ” श्रोत्रियस्यचअकामहतस्य “ means well versed in “Srutis”. Hence it implies that the enquiry of Brahman does not depend on the performance of any act but through study of Vedas. That is the essence of the section ” Ananda Valli” of Taittiriya Upanishad.

Why should one enquire Brahman? Why?

Most of the religions believe that life in earth or life in heaven are attained on the basis of one’s virtuous deeds(“KARMA”) which is transient. But once you know Brahman, you will enjoy everlasting bliss and immortality. Knowledge of Brahman destroys ignorance which is the root cause of all sufferings.

We will continue our study of Vedanta a little more in the following paragraphs. I admit that this will be lengthy for the readers, but it is essential part of Vedas which needs to be presented.

“Janmadyadhikaranam“: Definition of Brahman[Topic-2/First chapter of Brahma sutra]. First sentence here is ” Janmadyasya yatah” 1.1.2(2) means Brahman is that from which the origin, sustenance and dissolution of this Universe proceed. Brahman is eternally pure, wise, and free. He is Omnipotent and Omniscient. One can attain knowledge of brahman through reflection on it’s attributes. Would like to refer here Taittiriya upanishad-iii-1: Conversation between Varuna and his son Bhrigu Varuni on enquiry into Brahman. Bhrigu is asking his father- ” Sir, teach me Brahman”. Varuna said, ” that from whence these beings are born, that by which, when born they live, that into which they enter at their death, try to know that“. That is Brahman.

Here the point to be noted is that the origin, sustenance, and dissolution of the Universe are characteristic of the Universe because of changing (cyclic) in nature. They do not pertain to the eternal unchanging Brahman, yet they indicate Brahman which is the cause of this universe. Sruti has another definition of Brahman. ” Satyam Jnanam Anantam Brahman” means Truth, knowledge, Infinity is Brahman.

” Sastrayonitvadhikaranam” : Brahman is realizable only through the scriptures [Topic-3/First chapter of Brahma sutra]. “Sastrayonitvat”: 1.1.3(3) means the scripter is the source of right knowledge. The scriptures illumine all things like a search light. Through scripture only we get a comprehensive understanding of the nature of Brahman. Brahman is formless, colorless, attribute less. Hence it can not be grasped by the senses alone. Brahman is ONE, infinite and without second.

The Self is infinite.

There is in fact no multiplicity or plurality in that ONE, Homogeneous Being, the Supreme Being and the Ultimate. Because of superimposition and our ignorance, we have forgotten our true nature.  It alone
exists as the illuminator. This “Atman” the Real “Self” in its glorious existence, reveals its own “Sat-Chit” nature which is Anandamaya. The eternal nature of Self is Bliss only.

Vedanta says that the study of scriptures helps in realization of truth, when one is equipped with necessary fourfold discipline:-
1. Discrimination between real (Nitya নিত্য~ eternal) and unreal (Anitya অনিত্য~transitory).
2. Renunciation of the unreal (Viraga~বৈরাগ্য)
3. Six-fold qualities.
4. Longing for liberation (Moksha ~মোক্ষ প্রাপ্তি : to escape from the cycle of births and deaths)

The word “Self” is generally meant to “Atman” (soul). But the Sanskrit word is “Atman”, which cannot be translated.  This Atman is deathless, birthless, eternal and real for every individual.  It is the unchanging reality (sat ~সৎ) behind the changing body, sense organs, mind, and ego. It is Spirit, which is pure Consciousness (চিত্) and is unaffected by time-space causality. It is infinite and it is ONE without the second.
As the unchanging reality in the individual is known as Atman, same way the unchanging reality in the Universe is known as “BRAHMAN”. Vedanta says This BRAHMAN and ATMAN are one and the same.

Three key words are repeatedly used in Vedanta. Those are to be understood which are conceptual.1.Brahman: Discussed above. Next two are 2.Maya and 3.Atman; discussed below.

What is Maya? (~ Sanskrit word) :– Manifested Universe is all due to “Maya”

The appearance of this world is due to Maya-the illusory power of Brahman. Maya is neither “Sat” (existent) nor “Asat” (not existent). This world is unreal. According to Vedanta, our real nature is divine, pure, perfect, eternal, and free.  We do not have to become Brahman, because we are That. But Maya is the veil which covers our real nature. Maya is beginning less. Time arises only with Maya. It is unthinkable, indescribable (Anirvachaniya). The word illusion is often used as meaning of Maya, but scholars says it is improper. There is no equivalent word in English to mean it. What is known to us, according to ancient sacred texts, that Maya disappears when we realize our true nature.

Atman : –

Atman includes everything and everyone. It is the Total of all created beings, and so it is called Brahman. The ultimate in us is Atman. The ultimate in the cosmos is Brahman. Atman is Brahman. There can not be anything other than this Universal Reality.

According to Vedanta, The ultimate in us is ATMAN. The ultimate in Cosmos is BRAHMAN. This is the Universal Reality. Total Substance is Brahman. The same substance, when conceived as the essence of particular being is Atman. The Universe has been manifested out of this Total Substance can be said as Brahman. This is Atman, the Self of the universe. This Brahman is without a prior or a posterior, without interior or exterior. This Atman is Brahman, the perceiver of everything.

Conclusion:-

It is believed that Four MahaVakyas were chosen by Acharya Adi Sankara, and he attached 4 Mantras to 4 “Matha”s (Pitha)” in the four corners of India. Each four MahaVakyas are taken from each Veda. 

” prajnAnaM brahma “:Consciousness is Infinite [RIG VEDA]; It is connected to Govardhana Pitha

” tat-tvam-asi”: That-Thou-Art [ SAMA VEDA]; Connected to Dwarka Pitha