Upanishad for higher meditation:
In the previous article, we discussed the Darshana Upanishad. In this article, we will discuss Mahavakya Upanishad.
Mahavakya Upanishad discusses – the idea of Ajapa Gayatri and three types of Jnana among other concepts.
Ajapa Gayatri:
This Upanishad elaborate on Hamsa Vidya and calls the observance of inhalation & exhalation as Ajapa Gayatri. I.e., Without uttering Gayatri mantra, one can observe its essence in the inhalation & exhalation.
Hamsa Vidya is discussed in detail – in our article titled “Hamsa Upanishad”.
Three types of knowledge:
This Upanishad states that seeker have to acquire three stages of knowledge: Jnana, Vijnana and Samyag-jnana.
Jnana: In the context of this Upanishad, it is “ordinary knowledge”.
– Ordinary knowledge is acquired through senses either consciously or unconsciously. It can also be obtained through study of subjects on material world.
– While meditation aims to transcend the limitations of sensory perception, understanding how ordinary knowledge is acquired through the senses is actually quite important for a successful meditation practice.
Vijnana: In the context of this Upanishad, it is “experiential knowledge”.
– When ordinary knowledge is experienced subjectively, it becomes Vijnana. For example, one might have studied everything about salt but until he tastes the salt, the knowledge remains as only “jnana”. Once tasted, the knowledge of salt becomes “vijnana”.
– Experiential knowledge acquired through the senses is turned into a vital tool for cultivating awareness, understanding the nature of reality, and preparing for deeper states of consciousness.
Samyag-jnana: In the context of this Upanishad, it is the knowledge permeating from within.
– In contemporary philosophy this is called “creative thought” or “intuitive thought”. Intuitive thought is a form of thinking that relies on instincts, feelings, and immediate perceptions rather than logical reasoning or systematic analysis. It arises upon deep contemplation on “Vijnana”. I.e., Vijnana turns to Samyag-jnana upon realization in deep meditative state.
– This intuition plays a vital role in meditation because it provides a form of knowledge that transcends the limitations of the rational mind. This deepens the meditative experience, cultivate inner wisdom, and provide direct access to knowledge beyond the reach of logic
Chid-aditya:
The Upanishad encapsulates attributes of Parabrahman in a simple model – Chid-Aditya.
Chit – It means a super consciousness.
Aditya – The term Aditya indicates radiant light.
So Chid-aditya indicates the divine radiant light.
Upanishad states that meditating upon Brahman as divine radiant light removes all darkness within and the Jeevatma moves from ignorance to knowledge.
Symbolism of Light:
Light: It is a universal symbol of knowledge, consciousness, and purity. It represents the dispelling of darkness, which symbolizes ignorance, illusion, and suffering.
Radiance: In this Upanishad, Parabrahman, the ultimate reality, is depicted as this radiant light, signifying its all-pervading, illuminating nature. This “light” is not merely physical light but a transcendent radiance that permeates all existence. It represents the pure consciousness that underlies everything.
Key takeaways:
– Study Mahavakya Upanishad and adopt its teachings in your meditation practice.
– Also study chapter 10 of Bhagavad Gita which explains the divine presence of Parabrahman around us.
In the next article, we will discuss – “Varaha Upanishad”.
Madhwesh K
Vedic Tribe
