Theja bindu Upanishad is a yoga Upanishad which explains the transcendental meditation (TM) / atheendriya dhyaanam.
1. This practice of meditation is literally hard in nature and very difficult to practice.
2. Rigid directions and guidance are explained in this Upanishad about TM.
3. The method of controlling physical comforts and luxuries in the day to day life.
4. The practical experience and utmost feelings derived out of the TM.
5. The vacuum experienced even beyond the real aatmajnaanam or brahma saakshaathkaaram .
6. The experience of the absence of devathas, words, feelings, thoughts at this level.
7. The absence of ego, anger, revenge, fear, and so on.
8. The feeling of being freed from caste, clan, position, dharma, bhaava, and so on…. these are explained in the first
part of the Upanishad.
9. In the second part the activation of kundalini sakti is explained and the three bandhas of moola, uddheeyaana, jaalandhara bandhas is given
10 In the last part the khechari mudra and its importance are explained, further goes the relation between jeevaathma and paramaathma chaitanyam and the color of the petals of the lotus of heart, the way a parama yogi experiences at the level of TM.
Showing posts with label upanishads. Show all posts
Showing posts with label upanishads. Show all posts
Sunday, 14 December 2008
Suka Rahasya Upanishad
Lord Parameswara describes in this Upanishad, the rituals and customs to Sree Suka Brahma Rushi, son of Vyasa,
1. The importance of pranava mantra, the meaning and messages of pranava are given in the beginning of the Upanishad.
2. The message of what is meant by Brahmaarpanam
3. The messages of Vedas and Veda mantras,
4. Detailed description of the mahaavakyaas which are also known as mahad vakyaas in this Upanishad.,
5. The description of japa yoga and through that the attainment of brahmajnaana are given.
6. The importance of the jnaanam /knowledge of absolute and absolute knowledge and receiving the knowledge directly from the guru are explained,
7. It is told that the knowledge should be received from the guru through ears/listening, retained in the heart and through meditation the actual realization of each mantra/ knowledge is to be obtained.
8. Acquiring knowledge on swadharma and anya dharma and attaining brahma saayujyam is narrated.
9. Finally the importance of pranava jnaanam is given.
10. In the last part of the Upanishad, importance of learning and teaching this Upanishad is given .
1. The importance of pranava mantra, the meaning and messages of pranava are given in the beginning of the Upanishad.
2. The message of what is meant by Brahmaarpanam
3. The messages of Vedas and Veda mantras,
4. Detailed description of the mahaavakyaas which are also known as mahad vakyaas in this Upanishad.,
5. The description of japa yoga and through that the attainment of brahmajnaana are given.
6. The importance of the jnaanam /knowledge of absolute and absolute knowledge and receiving the knowledge directly from the guru are explained,
7. It is told that the knowledge should be received from the guru through ears/listening, retained in the heart and through meditation the actual realization of each mantra/ knowledge is to be obtained.
8. Acquiring knowledge on swadharma and anya dharma and attaining brahma saayujyam is narrated.
9. Finally the importance of pranava jnaanam is given.
10. In the last part of the Upanishad, importance of learning and teaching this Upanishad is given .
Sarvasaara Upanishad
Sarvasaara Upanishad gives the message of life as a discussion between the guru and the disciple. This is a small Upanishad discussing the method and pathway to realize the ultimate and absolute knowledge..
1. The attachment among the family members and bondage in the life are discussed.
2. The definition and the pathway of moksha are discussed further, for getting detachment from these bondage.
3. The true pathway is said to be the pathway of awareness and consciousness, or the pathway of knowledge/ jnaana marga.
4. The importance of experienceable knowledge; vidya and experientable knowledge avidya is described further
5. The three states of consciousness are further elaborated as jaagrath- swapana and sushupti.
6. The five layer of the human body as annamaya kosa, manonmaya kosa, vijjnaana maya kosa, anadamaya kosa and praana maya kosha are described further.
7. Detailed description of panchabhootha, pancha varga (tissues) , jeevaathama, paramaathma, brahma, aparabrahma and their presence in all living and non living beings etc.
8. Since this is the essence of other Upanishads, the name sarvasaara Upanishad is given.
9. Finally the benefits derived by studying this Upanishad are given at the end.
1. The attachment among the family members and bondage in the life are discussed.
2. The definition and the pathway of moksha are discussed further, for getting detachment from these bondage.
3. The true pathway is said to be the pathway of awareness and consciousness, or the pathway of knowledge/ jnaana marga.
4. The importance of experienceable knowledge; vidya and experientable knowledge avidya is described further
5. The three states of consciousness are further elaborated as jaagrath- swapana and sushupti.
6. The five layer of the human body as annamaya kosa, manonmaya kosa, vijjnaana maya kosa, anadamaya kosa and praana maya kosha are described further.
7. Detailed description of panchabhootha, pancha varga (tissues) , jeevaathama, paramaathma, brahma, aparabrahma and their presence in all living and non living beings etc.
8. Since this is the essence of other Upanishads, the name sarvasaara Upanishad is given.
9. Finally the benefits derived by studying this Upanishad are given at the end.
Kshurika Upanishad
Upanishads are the Vedanta which take us nearer to the absolute truth and ultimate truth.
1. Now we shall go through the kshurika Upanishad which is a small one discussing exclusively on the subject of yoga.
2. Kshurika means scissors . The word is used here to inform that all the bad in the mind should be removed by cutting them off as in surgery.
3. It is said here that yoga upaasana is the only method for aathma saakshaathkaaram ; the self realization
4. The method of controlling the body and mind are specified in minimum words.
5. Activation of spinal chord / the sushumna naadi and upa naadies to obtain siddhi and extra mental and physiological power. And
6. Detailed description of two types of nadies known as ida and pingala are given in this Upanishad.
7 By activating the ida and pingala nadies one can achieve extremely high level of enjoyment and power for the mind and body,
8. In the last part , again the word kshurika is used for another message of cutting of the worldly relation for getting the detachment in life for extra yogic upaasana / power.
9. Even though the pathway is difficult , says the Upanishad, this is the only method for understanding the reality of the life.
10 Finally the Upanishads end with the message that knowing the yoga can give the fullness in life.
1. Now we shall go through the kshurika Upanishad which is a small one discussing exclusively on the subject of yoga.
2. Kshurika means scissors . The word is used here to inform that all the bad in the mind should be removed by cutting them off as in surgery.
3. It is said here that yoga upaasana is the only method for aathma saakshaathkaaram ; the self realization
4. The method of controlling the body and mind are specified in minimum words.
5. Activation of spinal chord / the sushumna naadi and upa naadies to obtain siddhi and extra mental and physiological power. And
6. Detailed description of two types of nadies known as ida and pingala are given in this Upanishad.
7 By activating the ida and pingala nadies one can achieve extremely high level of enjoyment and power for the mind and body,
8. In the last part , again the word kshurika is used for another message of cutting of the worldly relation for getting the detachment in life for extra yogic upaasana / power.
9. Even though the pathway is difficult , says the Upanishad, this is the only method for understanding the reality of the life.
10 Finally the Upanishads end with the message that knowing the yoga can give the fullness in life.
Kalaagni Rudropanishad
One of the smallest Upanishads is the Kalaagni Rudropanishad.
1. This Upanishad explains the customs of thripundravidhi. The explanation is given by Lord Siva in the form of Kaalaagni Rudra, to Sanathkumara.
2. The custom of thripundra vidhi is nothing but the custom/ ritual practiced in bhasma dhaaranam.
3. What is the bhasmam, ? How it is important ? what are the meanings of the Bhasma dhaarana and so on…..are explained in simple lines in this Upanishad.
4. Kaalaagni Rudra tells that bhasma has five components which are the representation of pancha bhootha.
5. The pancha bhoothaas are pruthvi, ap, theja, vaayu and aakaasa..
6. Further explanation goes to say that the bhasma dharanam is an excellent method for moksha.
7. Rudra explains that thripundra dharanam itself is the bhasma dhaaranam even though it can have message beyond that.
8. In the last part of this Upanishad , it is mentioned that bhasma dhaaranam should be done in the auspicious time like thri sandhya, mantra is to be chanted during the bhasma dharnam.
9. As the phala sruthi it is mentioned that the person who studies the Upanishad will get heavenly joy in this world and also after death..
10. This is an Upanishad which tells only about a ritual, unlike other very important Upanishads which discusses about the absolute and ultimate truths of Vedanta
1. This Upanishad explains the customs of thripundravidhi. The explanation is given by Lord Siva in the form of Kaalaagni Rudra, to Sanathkumara.
2. The custom of thripundra vidhi is nothing but the custom/ ritual practiced in bhasma dhaaranam.
3. What is the bhasmam, ? How it is important ? what are the meanings of the Bhasma dhaarana and so on…..are explained in simple lines in this Upanishad.
4. Kaalaagni Rudra tells that bhasma has five components which are the representation of pancha bhootha.
5. The pancha bhoothaas are pruthvi, ap, theja, vaayu and aakaasa..
6. Further explanation goes to say that the bhasma dharanam is an excellent method for moksha.
7. Rudra explains that thripundra dharanam itself is the bhasma dhaaranam even though it can have message beyond that.
8. In the last part of this Upanishad , it is mentioned that bhasma dhaaranam should be done in the auspicious time like thri sandhya, mantra is to be chanted during the bhasma dharnam.
9. As the phala sruthi it is mentioned that the person who studies the Upanishad will get heavenly joy in this world and also after death..
10. This is an Upanishad which tells only about a ritual, unlike other very important Upanishads which discusses about the absolute and ultimate truths of Vedanta
Kalaagni Rudropanishad
One of the smallest Upanishads is the Kalaagni Rudropanishad.
1. This Upanishad explains the customs of thripundravidhi. The explanation is given by Lord Siva in the form of Kaalaagni Rudra, to Sanathkumara.
2. The custom of thripundra vidhi is nothing but the custom/ ritual practiced in bhasma dhaaranam.
3. What is the bhasmam, ? How it is important ? what are the meanings of the Bhasma dhaarana and so on…..are explained in simple lines in this Upanishad.
4. Kaalaagni Rudra tells that bhasma has five components which are the representation of pancha bhootha.
5. The pancha bhoothaas are pruthvi, ap, theja, vaayu and aakaasa.
6. Further explanation goes to say that the bhasma dharanam is an excellent method for moksha.
7. Rudra explains that thripundra dharanam itself is the bhasma dhaaranam even though it can have message beyond that.
8. In the last part of this Upanishad , it is mentioned that bhasma dhaaranam should be done in the auspicious time like thri sandhya, mantra is to be chanted during the bhasma dharnam.
9. As the phala sruthi it is mentioned that the person who studies the Upanishad will get heavenly joy in this world and also after death.
10. This is an Upanishad which tells only about a ritual, unlike other very important Upanishads which discusses about the absolute and ultimate truths of Vedanta
1. This Upanishad explains the customs of thripundravidhi. The explanation is given by Lord Siva in the form of Kaalaagni Rudra, to Sanathkumara.
2. The custom of thripundra vidhi is nothing but the custom/ ritual practiced in bhasma dhaaranam.
3. What is the bhasmam, ? How it is important ? what are the meanings of the Bhasma dhaarana and so on…..are explained in simple lines in this Upanishad.
4. Kaalaagni Rudra tells that bhasma has five components which are the representation of pancha bhootha.
5. The pancha bhoothaas are pruthvi, ap, theja, vaayu and aakaasa.
6. Further explanation goes to say that the bhasma dharanam is an excellent method for moksha.
7. Rudra explains that thripundra dharanam itself is the bhasma dhaaranam even though it can have message beyond that.
8. In the last part of this Upanishad , it is mentioned that bhasma dhaaranam should be done in the auspicious time like thri sandhya, mantra is to be chanted during the bhasma dharnam.
9. As the phala sruthi it is mentioned that the person who studies the Upanishad will get heavenly joy in this world and also after death.
10. This is an Upanishad which tells only about a ritual, unlike other very important Upanishads which discusses about the absolute and ultimate truths of Vedanta
Amrutha naada Upanishad
Amrutha naada Upanishad has 38 lines only.
This Upanishad explains 1. Description of the yogic state.
2. Symbolic explanation of a yogi's marching towards the Brahma padam is given.
3. The chariot used for the march (jeevitha yaathra) is omkaara, the charioteer is Mahavishnu. The road to reach the destination is meditation.
4. The resting places are rudrapooja locations and the ultimate aim is Brahma loka praapti (Brahma saakshaathkaara).
5. The six organs are like the shadangas of yoga and they arepraanaayaama, prathyahaara, dhyaana, dharana, thaaraka, samaadhi.
6. Three types of praanaayaama are explained here as the ruchira, rechaka and pooraka .
7. Three states of mind mentioned here are the dhaarana, dhaarana and samaadhi states.
8. Detailed directions are given to follow the pathway of yoga right from yogic sitting , body posture, breathing, focusing the eyes and mind, exciting the kundalini to attain a high level of the yogic state.
9. In the last part of this Upanishad, excellent description of the pancha bhootha is given as: pruthvi has five parts, ap has four, theja has three, vaayu two and aakaasa has one part ( here the part is mentioned as maatra) says the Upanishad.
This Upanishad explains 1. Description of the yogic state.
2. Symbolic explanation of a yogi's marching towards the Brahma padam is given.
3. The chariot used for the march (jeevitha yaathra) is omkaara, the charioteer is Mahavishnu. The road to reach the destination is meditation.
4. The resting places are rudrapooja locations and the ultimate aim is Brahma loka praapti (Brahma saakshaathkaara).
5. The six organs are like the shadangas of yoga and they arepraanaayaama, prathyahaara, dhyaana, dharana, thaaraka, samaadhi.
6. Three types of praanaayaama are explained here as the ruchira, rechaka and pooraka .
7. Three states of mind mentioned here are the dhaarana, dhaarana and samaadhi states.
8. Detailed directions are given to follow the pathway of yoga right from yogic sitting , body posture, breathing, focusing the eyes and mind, exciting the kundalini to attain a high level of the yogic state.
9. In the last part of this Upanishad, excellent description of the pancha bhootha is given as: pruthvi has five parts, ap has four, theja has three, vaayu two and aakaasa has one part ( here the part is mentioned as maatra) says the Upanishad.
AMRUTHA BINDU UPANISHAD
This is a very small Upanishad explaining about mind in 22 lines.
1. This Upanishad tells us that there are two parts for our mind.
2. Part one is the location where all the cravings and negatives are stored which is the asuddha /impure part. Part two where all the positives are stored which is the pure part of mind.
3. Greatness of an individual is due to the active positive /pure part of the mind and people becomes negative in their nature due to the active negative part of the mind, says the Upanishad.
4. The influence of meditation in mind is greatly explained in few lines here.
5. The method of controlling the impure part of the mind through saadhana is further explained
6. The meditation is said to be possible only by controlling the negative part of the mind and then focusing omkaram through the positive part of the mind.
7. By taking the pure mind to brahmajnaana praapti level and elevating himself spiritually, the yogi can attain a level free from rebirth. Through great sacrifice also one can attain the level to become free from the rebirth
8. Vedas are the main source of knowledge and one should learn Vedas and attain higher and higher levels n spirituality.
9 Just like the butter is present in milk, the knowledge is present in Vedas and it should be taken by churning the Vedas by yoga saadhana. Just like the clay is present in all pots, the Brahma thathwam is present in all living and non living beings says this Upanishad.
10. Every one should understand that knowledge is present in every living beings and everywhere and one should realize this to become brahmajnaani, through brahma saakshaathkaara and enjoy the brahmaananda.
1. This Upanishad tells us that there are two parts for our mind.
2. Part one is the location where all the cravings and negatives are stored which is the asuddha /impure part. Part two where all the positives are stored which is the pure part of mind.
3. Greatness of an individual is due to the active positive /pure part of the mind and people becomes negative in their nature due to the active negative part of the mind, says the Upanishad.
4. The influence of meditation in mind is greatly explained in few lines here.
5. The method of controlling the impure part of the mind through saadhana is further explained
6. The meditation is said to be possible only by controlling the negative part of the mind and then focusing omkaram through the positive part of the mind.
7. By taking the pure mind to brahmajnaana praapti level and elevating himself spiritually, the yogi can attain a level free from rebirth. Through great sacrifice also one can attain the level to become free from the rebirth
8. Vedas are the main source of knowledge and one should learn Vedas and attain higher and higher levels n spirituality.
9 Just like the butter is present in milk, the knowledge is present in Vedas and it should be taken by churning the Vedas by yoga saadhana. Just like the clay is present in all pots, the Brahma thathwam is present in all living and non living beings says this Upanishad.
10. Every one should understand that knowledge is present in every living beings and everywhere and one should realize this to become brahmajnaani, through brahma saakshaathkaara and enjoy the brahmaananda.
Mahanarayana Upanishad
Mahanarayana Upanishad is beyond the level of explaining through this message.
1. It is practically the Veda itself. The glorious mantras with sruthi give us all the messages of the Vedas.
2. There are 80 chapters in this Upanishads. All the mantras convey the social, spiritual, agricultural, psychological, scientific, and so on aspects of human life.
3. It contains the prayer , adoration of the Vedic deities, the qualities of divine power and also those yogi /scholar who can understand the divine power.
4. The adoration of prapancha purusha /cosmic form of divinity, agni, vaayu, durga, aathma, paramaathma,….can be red in the first part.
5 majority of the mantras are directly taken from the Rig-Veda and Yajurveda.
6. The praarthana of Rudra, aaditya, panchabhootha, omkaara, and so on are given with great and glorious messages.
7. The prapancha purusha and its organs are compared with the yaagagni and yaaga saala.
8. Symbolic presentation of the yagna is very attractive. 9. Great philosophical messages are conveyed through the chapters, which when pondered deep will give the messages which cannot be imagined even by the great scholars /scientists /thinkers in the modern world .
9. Every human behavior whether natural or artificial like listening /watching /talking /thinking /walking /meditating /breathing /smelling / chanting mantras /and all human activities are narrated with specific meaning in this Upanishad.
10. One can say if Mahanarayana Upanishad is studied, almost Vedic study is over as far as the message of the Vedas are concerned.
1. It is practically the Veda itself. The glorious mantras with sruthi give us all the messages of the Vedas.
2. There are 80 chapters in this Upanishads. All the mantras convey the social, spiritual, agricultural, psychological, scientific, and so on aspects of human life.
3. It contains the prayer , adoration of the Vedic deities, the qualities of divine power and also those yogi /scholar who can understand the divine power.
4. The adoration of prapancha purusha /cosmic form of divinity, agni, vaayu, durga, aathma, paramaathma,….can be red in the first part.
5 majority of the mantras are directly taken from the Rig-Veda and Yajurveda.
6. The praarthana of Rudra, aaditya, panchabhootha, omkaara, and so on are given with great and glorious messages.
7. The prapancha purusha and its organs are compared with the yaagagni and yaaga saala.
8. Symbolic presentation of the yagna is very attractive. 9. Great philosophical messages are conveyed through the chapters, which when pondered deep will give the messages which cannot be imagined even by the great scholars /scientists /thinkers in the modern world .
9. Every human behavior whether natural or artificial like listening /watching /talking /thinking /walking /meditating /breathing /smelling / chanting mantras /and all human activities are narrated with specific meaning in this Upanishad.
10. One can say if Mahanarayana Upanishad is studied, almost Vedic study is over as far as the message of the Vedas are concerned.
Narayana Upanishad
1. There are five mantras / stanzas in this Upanishad.
2. Here, Sree Narayana in the form of Mahavishnu is explained as the symbolic form of prapancha purusha, which is the cosmic form of the divine power /divinity.
3. From this cosmic form of Narayana evolves the energy for creation and that is represented as the Brahma or Lord Brahma.
4. Brahma is the symbolic presentation of creation with four heads representing the four dimensions ( x, y, z and time axes) needed for creation. Lord Brahma is connected with Lord Narayana /Vishnu through a lotus flower chord like the baby in the womb of the mother is connected with the mother, through which the material and energy for the growth/creation of the baby pass through. As you know for the creation, the knowledge is also needed , hence Lord Brahma is connected with Goddess Saraswati as an inseparable part like wife and husband (symbolically).
5. The Upanishad further explains that from Lord Narayana, Rudra , the god of annihilation is created and also created all the living and non living beings.
6. It gives the message that for the creation of anything and everything, the material and the energy are obtained from the prapancha purusha /Narayana.
7. Further goes the explanation that Indra ( means the mind – king of all organs), the prajaapathy, Vedas, air, water, and pancha bhootha, pancha praana, panchakarmendriyas, pancha jnaanendriyas of each and every living beings were created /evolved.
8. The explanation further goes to the upaasana /thapasya of Lord Mahavishnu and the mantras connected with.
9. The characteristics of a (Narayana upaasaka) yogi is given. He will be a great scholar who can interpret the Upanishad and forms of Lord Narayana scientifically.
10. The reward of learning (phalasruti) this Upanishad is given in the end as the best method for attaining a glorious life in this world and other world.
Wednesday, 8 October 2008
GARBHOPANISHAD
1. This Upanishad has two parts in it describing the growth of human embryo in the womb of the mother and also variety of parameters connected with human life.
2. The first part describes about pancha bhootha and gives excellent definition for the pruthvi (as solid materials) ap ( as fluid ) thejas ( which has energy /heat ) vaayu ( which flows as electrons/electricity/..) and aakaasa ( which exists as the finest particles – ions) .
3. Further descriptions goes to the six flavors (shad rasas) like, sweet /bitter/sour/saltish/ sour /pungent .
4. Then comes the composition of the body like blood, bones, muscles etc..
5. Further description about the colors and their impact on the body..
6. In the second chapter of the Garbhopanishad, the systematic growth of the embryo in the womb of the mother is narrated. In the first day the fertilization takes place as a continuation the a solid spherical shape is evolved as the embryo within 15 days.
7. The shape of the head and body evolves within 15th day and within 60 days.
8. Within 3rd month, the feet slowly separates and within 4th month the intestine, stomach and other internal organs evolve. In the 5th month eyes, nose, ears grow. And by the 8th month full growth attains and then during the 9th month the baby remains in meditation with all organs functioning steadily.
9. All the mental activities start during this period .
10 In the 10th month the baby gets its birth with all qualities of human beings. Thus ends the Garbhopanishad.
2. The first part describes about pancha bhootha and gives excellent definition for the pruthvi (as solid materials) ap ( as fluid ) thejas ( which has energy /heat ) vaayu ( which flows as electrons/electricity/..) and aakaasa ( which exists as the finest particles – ions) .
3. Further descriptions goes to the six flavors (shad rasas) like, sweet /bitter/sour/saltish/ sour /pungent .
4. Then comes the composition of the body like blood, bones, muscles etc..
5. Further description about the colors and their impact on the body..
6. In the second chapter of the Garbhopanishad, the systematic growth of the embryo in the womb of the mother is narrated. In the first day the fertilization takes place as a continuation the a solid spherical shape is evolved as the embryo within 15 days.
7. The shape of the head and body evolves within 15th day and within 60 days.
8. Within 3rd month, the feet slowly separates and within 4th month the intestine, stomach and other internal organs evolve. In the 5th month eyes, nose, ears grow. And by the 8th month full growth attains and then during the 9th month the baby remains in meditation with all organs functioning steadily.
9. All the mental activities start during this period .
10 In the 10th month the baby gets its birth with all qualities of human beings. Thus ends the Garbhopanishad.
Sunday, 5 October 2008
Swethaaswethara Upanishad
Swethaaswethara Upanishad is said to be written by a Rushi , Swethaaswathara. I personally think that the name Swethaaswethara cannot be the name of a Rushi, it can be only swetha and swetha ithara, which means the white and other than white ( pure and impure). This Upanishads clearly gives the messages of good and bad in the world and how a great man should take the good from the bad.
1. There are six chapters for this Upanishad.
2. Detailed description of the Brahmam is given in the first chapter, like the genesis , existence, maintenance, manifestation, manipulation of the Brahmam .
3. Variety of observations and visions of scholars about the Brahmam are given in this part.
4. the cause and solutions of happiness and unhappiness in the human life are philosophically explained.
5. The knowledge of the absolute truth about the life and philosophical approach towards life is the only solution for the happiness in the life is mentioned with example in the first and second chapter of the swethaaswetharopanishad.
6. The detailed description of Brahmam as the colorless /odorless/ formless/ shape and size less unexplainable/ indefinable…beyond the level of imagination, beyond analyses, beyond estimation etc,. are the adjective used for Brahmam , in the third chapter.
7. How the Brahmam manifest itself as the Sun, moon, stars, butterflies, birds, clouds, ocean, atmosphere, colors, cosmos …etc ( i.e. all living and non living beings) are explained in chapter four..
8. The fifth chapter describes the merits of meditation for Brahma saakshaathkaaram and brahmajnaanam.
9. The last chapter describes about the qualities and qualifications of the materials and the world due to the presence of Brahma chaithanyam in it.
10. The last lines describe about the moksha and detachment in the life to attain the heaven.
1. There are six chapters for this Upanishad.
2. Detailed description of the Brahmam is given in the first chapter, like the genesis , existence, maintenance, manifestation, manipulation of the Brahmam .
3. Variety of observations and visions of scholars about the Brahmam are given in this part.
4. the cause and solutions of happiness and unhappiness in the human life are philosophically explained.
5. The knowledge of the absolute truth about the life and philosophical approach towards life is the only solution for the happiness in the life is mentioned with example in the first and second chapter of the swethaaswetharopanishad.
6. The detailed description of Brahmam as the colorless /odorless/ formless/ shape and size less unexplainable/ indefinable…beyond the level of imagination, beyond analyses, beyond estimation etc,. are the adjective used for Brahmam , in the third chapter.
7. How the Brahmam manifest itself as the Sun, moon, stars, butterflies, birds, clouds, ocean, atmosphere, colors, cosmos …etc ( i.e. all living and non living beings) are explained in chapter four..
8. The fifth chapter describes the merits of meditation for Brahma saakshaathkaaram and brahmajnaanam.
9. The last chapter describes about the qualities and qualifications of the materials and the world due to the presence of Brahma chaithanyam in it.
10. The last lines describe about the moksha and detachment in the life to attain the heaven.
Saturday, 27 September 2008
Muktika Upanishad
This is the 108th Upanishad in the series of 108 important Upanishads. There are two parts for this Upanishad. Just before Lord Rama leaving the world (DEHA TYAAGAM) by disposing the body in River Sarayu, Hanuman asked a question to Lord, in presence of Lakshmana, Bharatha, Satrughna, Vasishta and others. The question was about the Vedic and non Vedic literature. As reply, Lord Rama thus explained.
1. There are four Vedas. Rig-Veda has 21 recensions, Yajurveda has 109 recensions, Sama Veda has 1000 recensions and Atharveda has 50 recensions.
2. The Lord said there are 108 Upanishads. From Aitareya Upanishad to bahvruchopanishad there are ten Upanishads belonging to Rig-Veda and all these Upanishads have the saanthi mantra starting from vaang may manasi prathishtithaa mano may vaachi prathishtithaa
3. From eesaavaasya Upanishad to muktika Upanishad there are 19 Upanishads belonging to Sukla Yajurveda having the saanthi mantra starting from poorna matha poorna midam poornaath…….. From Katopanishad to saraswatee rahasyopanishad there are 32 Upanishads for Krishna Yajurveda having the saanthi mantra saha naavavathu saha nou bhunaktu saha veeryam
4. From kena Upanishad to jaabaala Upanishad there are 16 Upanishads for Sama Veda having the saanthi mantra aapyaayanthu mamaangaani vaak praana schakshu……………. From prasna Upanishad to garuda Upanishad there are 31 Upanishad for Atharveda which are chanted with the saanthi mantra Bhadram karnebhi srunuyaama devaa……….. thus Lord Rama gives the explanation about the Vedic literature in the first part of this Upanishad.
In the second part Lord explains about praana, yoga, wisdom and intelligence, knowledge (jnaanam), analyses, estimation, as the mental attitude and capacity to intellectual analyses. Finally Lord Rama explains why he himself is known as an Avathaara/ and the divinity in him. In short the analyses of mind and psychology were done in the second part.
1. There are four Vedas. Rig-Veda has 21 recensions, Yajurveda has 109 recensions, Sama Veda has 1000 recensions and Atharveda has 50 recensions.
2. The Lord said there are 108 Upanishads. From Aitareya Upanishad to bahvruchopanishad there are ten Upanishads belonging to Rig-Veda and all these Upanishads have the saanthi mantra starting from vaang may manasi prathishtithaa mano may vaachi prathishtithaa
3. From eesaavaasya Upanishad to muktika Upanishad there are 19 Upanishads belonging to Sukla Yajurveda having the saanthi mantra starting from poorna matha poorna midam poornaath…….. From Katopanishad to saraswatee rahasyopanishad there are 32 Upanishads for Krishna Yajurveda having the saanthi mantra saha naavavathu saha nou bhunaktu saha veeryam
4. From kena Upanishad to jaabaala Upanishad there are 16 Upanishads for Sama Veda having the saanthi mantra aapyaayanthu mamaangaani vaak praana schakshu……………. From prasna Upanishad to garuda Upanishad there are 31 Upanishad for Atharveda which are chanted with the saanthi mantra Bhadram karnebhi srunuyaama devaa……….. thus Lord Rama gives the explanation about the Vedic literature in the first part of this Upanishad.
In the second part Lord explains about praana, yoga, wisdom and intelligence, knowledge (jnaanam), analyses, estimation, as the mental attitude and capacity to intellectual analyses. Finally Lord Rama explains why he himself is known as an Avathaara/ and the divinity in him. In short the analyses of mind and psychology were done in the second part.
Krishna Yajurveda
These Upanishads are either the part of the Krishna Yajurveda, Krishna yajurvedeeya brahmana, Krishna yajurvedeeya aaranyaka or those written by the Rushies belonging to the Krishna Yajurveda saakha.
1. The first among the series of Krishna yajurvedeeya Upanishads is the Katopanishad. The subject matter is described in vallies (chapters).
2 The Upanishad starts (in the first vally) with the description of a minor incident. The son of Vajasravas, a great emperor performed a yaaga and at the end he donated (performing daana) many cows and gold coins to scholars. Many of these cows were very old. Seeing this the son of the emperor, Nachiketas asked his father why he was giving this old useless cows to scholars. He further commented to his father, that he may even donate his son to others for getting heaven, if so to whom will the emperor donate his son ? The father angrily answered that he will donate Nachiketas to Yamadharma (god of death)! Listening to these words, the son said that he shall go by himself to Yamadharma and the Upanishad starts with the discussion between Nachiketas and Yamadharma.
3. The description of the absolute truth – soul- jeevaathma – paramaathma is given in second vally . In the third vally excellent description/ comparison of human body is given as: The human body is compared with a chariot, the wisdom is the charioteer, the five sensory organs are the five horses, all the five, that are linked with the five sensory organs are the pathway of the horses to move. Says Yama to Nachiketas.
4. For deep meditation and realization of the soul, the preliminary requirements like purity, control and guidance of the mind are needed says Yama.
5. The description of pancha praana : praana-apaana – vyaana – udaana –samaana and vyaana are given.
6.The relation between Brahmam and also aathma chaitanyam are described further
7. In the last vally Yamadharma shows the path for the realization of the soul and for the attainment of the heavenly abode, to Nachiketas. 7. After listening to the detailed description from Yamadharma, Nachiketas attained moksha. Thus ends the Upanishad which is tough to understand too.
1. The first among the series of Krishna yajurvedeeya Upanishads is the Katopanishad. The subject matter is described in vallies (chapters).
2 The Upanishad starts (in the first vally) with the description of a minor incident. The son of Vajasravas, a great emperor performed a yaaga and at the end he donated (performing daana) many cows and gold coins to scholars. Many of these cows were very old. Seeing this the son of the emperor, Nachiketas asked his father why he was giving this old useless cows to scholars. He further commented to his father, that he may even donate his son to others for getting heaven, if so to whom will the emperor donate his son ? The father angrily answered that he will donate Nachiketas to Yamadharma (god of death)! Listening to these words, the son said that he shall go by himself to Yamadharma and the Upanishad starts with the discussion between Nachiketas and Yamadharma.
3. The description of the absolute truth – soul- jeevaathma – paramaathma is given in second vally . In the third vally excellent description/ comparison of human body is given as: The human body is compared with a chariot, the wisdom is the charioteer, the five sensory organs are the five horses, all the five, that are linked with the five sensory organs are the pathway of the horses to move. Says Yama to Nachiketas.
4. For deep meditation and realization of the soul, the preliminary requirements like purity, control and guidance of the mind are needed says Yama.
5. The description of pancha praana : praana-apaana – vyaana – udaana –samaana and vyaana are given.
6.The relation between Brahmam and also aathma chaitanyam are described further
7. In the last vally Yamadharma shows the path for the realization of the soul and for the attainment of the heavenly abode, to Nachiketas. 7. After listening to the detailed description from Yamadharma, Nachiketas attained moksha. Thus ends the Upanishad which is tough to understand too.
Brahma Upanishad
Now we shall go to the next Upanishad known as Brahma Upanishad ( brahmopanishad).
1. First part of this Upanishad is composed as prose and the second part in poetical style.
2. In the first part the description goes through the panchapraana: praana – apaana – vyaana- udaana and samaana, which control different parts of our body
3. The aathma is the soul about which detailed descriptions are given.
4. The relation between the aathma – paramaathma : i.e the soul and the universal energy is further narrated.
5. The three states of the mind which are jaagrath – swapna – sushupti are further described. In jaagrath state we see /listen/smell/discuss / and know all the bodily stimuli. In swapana state we dream and in the sushupti state fast eye ball movements take place in deep sleep. Thureeya state beyond all these three states
6. Detailed description of Brahma thathwam as given in other Upanishads and its (brahma) manifestation in nature, as deities (devathas) and their symbolic presentation of Brahma – Vishnu – Maheswara and so on are given for the better understanding of nature for the common man.
7. The description of the words like eeswara, devathas, prakruti, prapancha, etc is given at the end of the first part of the Upanishad.
8. In the second part, the importance of human heart where the devathas/ praana / soul / etc dell is given.
9. The importance of sacred thread (yajnopaveeetha), sikha ( tuft in the head ), the ceremony connected with the wearing of sacred thread (upanayanam) for all the castes , the meditation procedures to be adopted for the realization of divinity in self are demonstrated.
10. It is described that once a person has attained the status of a yogi, he can experience the divinity like he can see the waves in the ocean, oil in sesame seeds, through transcendental meditation. Says the Upanishads.
1. First part of this Upanishad is composed as prose and the second part in poetical style.
2. In the first part the description goes through the panchapraana: praana – apaana – vyaana- udaana and samaana, which control different parts of our body
3. The aathma is the soul about which detailed descriptions are given.
4. The relation between the aathma – paramaathma : i.e the soul and the universal energy is further narrated.
5. The three states of the mind which are jaagrath – swapna – sushupti are further described. In jaagrath state we see /listen/smell/discuss / and know all the bodily stimuli. In swapana state we dream and in the sushupti state fast eye ball movements take place in deep sleep. Thureeya state beyond all these three states
6. Detailed description of Brahma thathwam as given in other Upanishads and its (brahma) manifestation in nature, as deities (devathas) and their symbolic presentation of Brahma – Vishnu – Maheswara and so on are given for the better understanding of nature for the common man.
7. The description of the words like eeswara, devathas, prakruti, prapancha, etc is given at the end of the first part of the Upanishad.
8. In the second part, the importance of human heart where the devathas/ praana / soul / etc dell is given.
9. The importance of sacred thread (yajnopaveeetha), sikha ( tuft in the head ), the ceremony connected with the wearing of sacred thread (upanayanam) for all the castes , the meditation procedures to be adopted for the realization of divinity in self are demonstrated.
10. It is described that once a person has attained the status of a yogi, he can experience the divinity like he can see the waves in the ocean, oil in sesame seeds, through transcendental meditation. Says the Upanishads.
Thaithireeya Upanishad
The second and one of the very important Upanishads of Krishnayajurveda is the Thaithireeya Upanishad. This belongs to the Thaithireeya recension/ sakha of the Krishna Yajurveda and it comes at the end of Thaithireeya Aaranyaka
1. The word Thaithireeyam means pigeon.
2. The message of this word here is that 'one should take the absolute knowledge like the pigeon takes small grains'.. There are three chapters for this Upanishad and they are known as Siksha valli, Brahmananda valli and Bhrugu valli.
In the first chapter known as Siksha valli, the rules and the customs to be followed for learning the Vedas are given very systematically. The message and the worship of Vedas, the importance of the vedic tones and sruthies, Omkara and brahma thathwa, the customs to be followed by the brahmacharies /Vedic students, the qualities and qualifications of the Vedic guru, the greatness of the Vedic scholars etc are further described in the first chapter.
In the second chapter, detailed description of the Brahma thathwam, the message that it (Brahmam) is the universal manifestation and manipulation of the awareness and consciousness etc., are given in the first part of the second chapter. In the second part of the second chapter, the Brahmam and its relation with food (annam), soul (jeeathma), cosmic power (prapachapurusha), mind ( mana), jeevaathma (the life force), paramaathma (the universal energy0 …etc are described. The method of realization of the absolute truth is given as the brahmajnaana maargam (pathway) brahma saakshaathkaaram, brahmaanandam etc.
In the final statement it is mentioned that one who has attained this level is equal to god himself – deva.. In the third chapter, known as Bhrugu valli, Maharshi Varuna gives the guidance/ knoledge to his son Maharshi Bhrugu on the relation between the food / annam and the Brahma thathwam, the mind and soul, worship of food, the benefits of free distribution of food to poor, etc. Here the principles that annam brahmeti vyajaanaath, mano brahma, agnireva brahma, aham brahmaasmi, ayam aathma brahma, thath brahma thwam asi, prajnaanam brahma etc are described directly and indirectly. Each chapter of the Thaithireeya Upanishad is further divided into anuvaakaas.
1. The word Thaithireeyam means pigeon.
2. The message of this word here is that 'one should take the absolute knowledge like the pigeon takes small grains'.. There are three chapters for this Upanishad and they are known as Siksha valli, Brahmananda valli and Bhrugu valli.
In the first chapter known as Siksha valli, the rules and the customs to be followed for learning the Vedas are given very systematically. The message and the worship of Vedas, the importance of the vedic tones and sruthies, Omkara and brahma thathwa, the customs to be followed by the brahmacharies /Vedic students, the qualities and qualifications of the Vedic guru, the greatness of the Vedic scholars etc are further described in the first chapter.
In the second chapter, detailed description of the Brahma thathwam, the message that it (Brahmam) is the universal manifestation and manipulation of the awareness and consciousness etc., are given in the first part of the second chapter. In the second part of the second chapter, the Brahmam and its relation with food (annam), soul (jeeathma), cosmic power (prapachapurusha), mind ( mana), jeevaathma (the life force), paramaathma (the universal energy0 …etc are described. The method of realization of the absolute truth is given as the brahmajnaana maargam (pathway) brahma saakshaathkaaram, brahmaanandam etc.
In the final statement it is mentioned that one who has attained this level is equal to god himself – deva.. In the third chapter, known as Bhrugu valli, Maharshi Varuna gives the guidance/ knoledge to his son Maharshi Bhrugu on the relation between the food / annam and the Brahma thathwam, the mind and soul, worship of food, the benefits of free distribution of food to poor, etc. Here the principles that annam brahmeti vyajaanaath, mano brahma, agnireva brahma, aham brahmaasmi, ayam aathma brahma, thath brahma thwam asi, prajnaanam brahma etc are described directly and indirectly. Each chapter of the Thaithireeya Upanishad is further divided into anuvaakaas.
Monday, 25 August 2008
YAJNAVALKYA UPANISHAD.
You might have heard about Emperor Janaka whose name is mentioned in almost all the Indian literature and the only name of a king mentioned in Bhagavath Geetha, by Lord Krishna as an ideal person. He became a sanyaasi (aathmajnaani) and got elevated into the level of a Maharshi. He gives the advise about the aathmajnaana to (another Maharshi) Yajnavalkhya (who composed Yajurveda)in this Upanishad.
1. Explanation is on sanyaasa , (sanyaasi = a scholarly saint).
2 He explains the knowledge of absolute truth in the universe.
3. The happiness derived for the sanyaaasi when he becomes the embodiment of the Vedic and Upanishadic knowledge.
4. Janaka explains the sacraments performed during a life term which is known as shodasa karma.
5. This shodasa samskaara or karma starts from the union of the ovum and sperm of the parents and till the last breath of the man. i.e Garbhaadanam to anthyeshti.
6. He (Janaka) explains further on mind and its multifaceted performance.
7. The control of mind and through that controlling the five sensory organs and five functional organs.
8. Analyses the mind, thought, memory, analyzing capability, intelligence and wisdom and explains in few lines are done.
9. Finally the working principle of the mind and ...
10. Getting detachment from all the worldly affairs/luxuries and relinquishing/giving up/ sacrificing from the attachments in the life.
Wednesday, 23 July 2008
108 Upanishads
RIG-VEDA:
1. Aitareya Upanishad
2. Aksha-Malika Upanishad
3. Atma-Bodha Upanishad
4. Bahvricha Upanishad
5. Kaushitaki-Brahmana Upanishad
6. Mudgala Upanishad
7. Nada-Bindu Upanishad
8. Nirvana Upanishad
9. Saubhagya-Lakshmi Upanishad
10. Tripura Upanishad
SUKLA-YAJUR-VEDA:
11. Adhyatma Upanishad
12. Advaya-Taraka Upanishad
13. Bhikshuka Upanishad
14. Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
15. Hamsa Upanishad
16. Isavasya Upanishad
17. Jabala Upanishad
18. Mandala-Brahmana Upanishad
19. Mantrika Upanishad
20. Muktika Upanishad
21. Niralamba Upanishad
22. Paingala Upanishad
23. Paramahamsa Upanishad
24. Satyayaniya Upanishad
25. Subala Upanishad
26. Tara-Sara Upanishad
27. Trisikhi-Brahmana Upanishad
28. Turiyatita-Avadhuta Upanishad
29. Yajnavalkya Upanishad
KRISHNA-YAJUR -VEDA:
30. Akshi Upanishad
31. Amrita-Bindhu Upanishad
32. Amrita-Nada Upanishad
33. Avadhuta Upanishad
34. Brahma-Vidya Upanishad
35. Brahma Upanishad
36. Dakshinamurti Upanishad
37. Dhyana-Bindu Upanishad
38. Ekakshara Upanishad
39. Garbha Upanishad
40. Kaivalya Upanishad
41. Kalagni-Rudra Upanishad
42. Kali-Santarana Upanishad
43. Katha Upanishad
44. Katharudra Upanishad
45. Kshurika Upanishad
46. Maha-Narayana (or) Yajniki Upanishad
47. Pancha-Brahma Upanishad
48. Pranagnihotra Upanishad
49. Rudra-Hridaya Upanishad
50. Sarasvati-Rahasya Upanishad
51. Sariraka Upanishad
52. Sarva-Sara Upanishad
53. Skanda Upanishad
54. Suka-Rahasya Upanishad
55. Svetasvatara Upanishad
56. Taittiriya Upanishad
57. Tejo-Bindu Upanishad
58. Varaha Upanishad
59. Yoga-Kundalini Upanishad
60. Yoga-Sikha Upanishad
61. Yoga-Tattva Upanishad
SAMA-VEDA:
62. Aruni Upanishad
63. Avyakta Upanishad
64. Chandogya Upanishad
65. Darsana Upanishad
66. Jabali Upanishad
67. Kena Upanishad
68. Kundika Upanishad
69. Maha Upanishad
70. Maitrayani Upanishad
71. Maitreya Upanishad
72. Rudraksha-Jabala Upanishad
73. Sannyasa Upanishad
74. Savitri Upanishad
75. Vajrasuchika Upanishad
76. Vasudeva Upanishad
77. Yoga-Chudamani Upanishad
ATHARVA-VEDA:
78. Annapurna Upanishad
79. Atharvasikha Upanishad
80. Atharvasiras Upanishad
81. Atma Upanishad
82. Bhasma-Jabala Upanishad
83. Bhavana Upanishad
84. Brihad-Jabala Upanishad
85. Dattatreya Upanishad
86. Devi Upanishad
87. Ganapati Upanishad
88. Garuda Upanishad
89. Gopala-Tapaniya Upanishad
90. Hayagriva Upanishad
91. Krishna Upanishad
92. Maha-Vakya Upanishad
93. Mandukya Upanishad
94. Mundaka Upanishad
95. Narada-Parivrajaka Upanishad
96. Nrisimha-Tapaniya Upanishad
97. Para-Brahma Upanishad
98. Paramahamsa-Parivrajaka Upanishad
99. Pasupata-Brahmana Upanishad
100. Prasna Upanishad
101. Rama-Rahasya Upanishad
102. Rama-Tapaniya Upanishad
103. Sandilya Upanishad
104. Sarabha Upanishad
105. Sita Upanishad
106. Surya Upanishad
107. Tripadvibhuti-Mahanarayana Upanishad
108. Tripura-Tapini Upanishad
Tuesday, 22 July 2008
Bhikshuka Upanishad
This is a small and simple Upanishad which discusses the bhikshaatana rules for the sanyaasies who accept sanyaasa directly (as Sankaracharya did) or after passing through brahmacharya, gruhastha, sanyaasa / vaanaprastha. (Do not translate the bhiskhaatana word, as begging. accepting bhiskhsa and giving bhiksha are two holiest dharma).
There are four levels for the bhikshus known as kuteechika bhikshus, Bahoodaka bhikshus, Hamsa bhikshus, Paramahamsa bhikshus. Gouthama, Bharadwaaja, Yajnavalkhya and Vasishta Maharshies are respectively included in the four classes, in that order.
Kuteeechika bhikshus satisfy with eight hand full of annam / food
Bhahoodaka bhikshus take little food but they should have a three feet long bamboo piece+ kamandalu+ yajnopaveetha + saafron cloth
Hamsa bhikshus live with little milk products and stay not more than a day in a village, five days in a town and seven days in holy places.
For parama Hamsa bhikshus nothing is a criteria they live in a state where nothing is important and no rules.
For the parama Hamsa bhikshus the gold and stone are alike.
They don’t have any attachment or feelings like happiness, unhappiness, fear, sorrow and so on.
Parama Hamsa bhikshus may live naked or half naked in forests or places similar to that.
They eat food just to maintain life/ jeevaathma in the body.
Courtsey - ISSH- GN
Pingala Upanishad
Pingala Upanishad is the 11th among the Sukla Yajurvedic Upanishads. It is presented as the discussion between Maharshi yajnavalkhya and his disciple Pingala, in four chapters. In the first chapter following points are described.
The cosmic power and its relation with brahma chaitanya.
The colors of the Brahmam.
saathwika, raajasika and thaamasika gunas present in this.
The brahma chaitanyam is said to be filled in universe hence explained as brahmaanda. Ie. Brahma + anda = brahmaanda.
The awareness and consciousness existing in the universe is explained as the manifestation of the Brahmam itself : prajnaaanam brahma.
From that prajnaan ( awareness and consciousness) the creation of the ahamkaaram (aham + kaaram) = swabhodham takes place.
It is the awareness and consciousness with correct direction (pathway)! So as to follow the manifestation and manipulation of that Brahmam ( awareness and consciousness) in all living and non living beings.
Defining and explaining this cosmic energy as prapancha purusha chaitanya for symbolically presenting the brahmaanda concept.
Further presenting that cosmic energy symbolically as mahavishnu .
The formation of the pancha bhootha from awareness and consciousness as pruthvi, ap, theja., vaayu, akaasa, + ahankaara from macrocosm. ( the last one is the consciousness in microcosm).
Formation of the elements from pancha bhootha and from that the materials/compounds.
The formation of the material world from these molecules.
From those molecules formed each and every living and non living beings, including animals and plants with jeeva chaitanya (praana) in them.
The second chapter of the Pingala Upanishad is the answers given by Maharshi Yajnavalkhya for the question “ how the divine power manifested as jeevaathma ?” asked by his disciple. Yajnavalkhya said
The formation of pancha bhootha has taken place first.
In this panchabhootha based body the feelings were created/ generated after the creation of the organs from pancha boothas.
Then formed the feelings like hunger, thirst, heat, cold, etc.
These are created from the agni/ theja part of the pancha bhootha.
All the body movements, oxygen and air transfer, etc are linked with the vaayu part of the panchabhootha.
The desire, anger, jealousy, and all the mental attitudes were generated from aakaasa ( part of the pancha bhootha)
Then the five state of praana were created as praana – apaana – vyaana – udaana – samaana.
Each part of the body / organ has been attributed to one or more of the divine natural forces.
Each organ has five major foundation parameters as annamaya kosha- praana maya kosha – manomaya kosha – vijanaanamaya kosha – aanandamaya kosha.
Through these pancha bhootha constituents and pancha praanas the divinity of the nature gets manifested in body, said Yajnavalkhya Maharshi.
In the 3rd chapter excellent explanation of four mahavakyaas are given. These mahavakyaas are connected with the Vedas. From Rig-Veda prajnaanam brahma, from Yajurveda, aham brahmasmi, from Sama Veda thathwam asi and from Atharva Veda the ayam athma brahma , (four) mahavakyaas were taught (these four mahavakyas are from the four Upanishads belonging respectively to the four Vedas)
In the 4th chapter the sanyaasa charyas (acharas) and the qualifications of the Vedic scholars who has practically implemented the Vedic messages in their life are explained.
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