Divine light and secret path to liberation:
In the previous article, we discussed the Mandala-brahmana Upanishad. In this article, we will discuss Advayataraka Upanishad.
This Upanishad discusses three introspections during meditation: the path of Sushumna Nadi (central channel of energy), the different lights observed in meditation and finally the unitary light – Taraka.
Divine luminescence, a wondrous sight:
The manifestation of cosmic consciousness in the form of light appearing between our eyebrow – is the subject of meditation in Advaya-taraka Upanishad.
Advaya: It indicates the “one underlying all manifestations”. In other words, though Brahman is the only eternal cosmic consciousness, it manifests into different forms to sustain the cosmic cycle. Individual conscious observes it as different forms but ultimately the underlying Brahman is only one i.e., Advaya.
Taraka: It indicates the light between and in front of the eyebrows which is observed during meditation.
In popular culture today this meditation technique has morphed into “taraka yoga”.
Three introspections:
In this Upanishad, three introspections are prescribed for meditation:
Internal introspection: Meditating upon the secret passage – the subtle channel of energy called “sushumna nadi”.
Intermediate introspection: Meditating upon different lights experienced during the meditation.
External introspection: Meditating upon “taraka” – the manifestation of Brahman.
Meditation upon light:
This Upanishad contemplates meditation upon different lights seen during the meditation as well as the ultimate single light – Taraka.
Phosphens: In science, the lights observed while closing the eyes are called “phosphenes”. Phosphenes are caused by the stimulation of the retina or the visual cortex in the brain, even in the absence of external light.
Unitary light: In Vedic tradition, these lights are observed as manifestation of the almighty. One must remember that in Vedic tradition, the almighty is immanent in the entire cosmos and his manifestations can be observed in all forms. In this Upanishad, his manifestation as different light is observed in meditation. Finally, the Upanishad says, with deep meditative state, a single light appears – i.e., Taraka. It indicates the unitary attributes of Brahman though appearing in different manifestations. Meditation upon these lights is essential aspect of yogic practice contemplated in this Upanishad.
Meditation upon Sushumna Nadi:
This Upanishad also discusses the process of meditation upon Sushumna Nadi – the central channel of energy.
In Yoga and Tantra traditions, the channels of energy in the human body are divided into three categories:
Ida – channels of energy on the left side of the body
Pingala – channels of energy on the right side of the body
Sushumna – single channel of energy in the centre of the body.
While accessing Ida and Pingala is relatively easy, sushumna is the most difficult. It connects Muladhara Chakra (at the base of the spine, in the perineum area between the genitals and the anus) and Sahasrara Chakra (at the top of the head).
Sushumna Nadi is considered the express highway to liberation. However, accessing this channel of energy is the most difficult process in Yoga as well as Tantra tradition. This Upanishad contemplates meditation upon this channel for liberation.
Key takeaways:
– Study Advaya Taraka Upanishad and understand its meaning from a scholar and adopt teachings of this Upanishad in your meditative practices.
– If you encounter modern Taraka Yoga, question its authority and time tested tradition.
In the next article, we will discuss – “Shandilya Upanishad”.
Madhwesh K
Vedic Tribe
