Planting the seeds of future knowledge:
In the previous article, we discussed the Shandilya Upanishad. In this article, we will discuss Yogashiksha Upanishad.
It emphasizes on Hatha Yoga and Sri Gorakshanatha’s work draws lot of influence from this Upanishad. It goes on to explain jnana yoga, kundalini…etc. Notably, this Upanishad has the highest number of variations in different manuscripts and is quite difficult to ascertain the original content.
Chained to earth, spirit unbound:
This Upanishad explains the idea of Jeevanmukta i.e., the one who is liberated while still being alive in a physical body.
Jeevanmukti: The Yogashiksha Upanishad delves into one of the most profound concepts of Vedanta philosophy: Jeevanmukti. This unique doctrine asserts that liberation from the cycle of birth and death is attainable while still inhabiting a physical body.
A radical departure: In traditional philosophies and religions, liberation is often perceived as a post-mortem event. However, Vedanta offers a radical departure from this notion. It posits that the human soul, or Jeevatma, is bound to the mind, which in turn is tethered to the physical body. This intricate connection forms the root cause of our suffering and limitations.
Transcendence: The Yogashiksha Upanishad elucidates the transformative power of meditation. Through sustained and focused meditation, the mind can be redirected inward, away from external distractions and sensory experiences. As the mind delves deeper into its nature of the almighty, it gradually transcends its identification with the physical body.
Liberation: When the mind successfully unites with the Supreme Consciousness residing within, a profound shift occurs. The Jeevatma, no longer bound by the limitations of the mind and body, attains a state of liberation while still alive. This state is known as Jeevanmukti.
Ardha-narishwara:
The Upanishad deliberates on the sacred syllable “Om” as the embodiment of both Shiva and Shakti.
Iconography: The iconic image of Ardhanarishwara, where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati share a single body, is a powerful symbol of the divine union of masculine and feminine energies. This concept is deeply rooted in ancient Indian philosophy, particularly in the Samkhya, Yoga, and Vedanta schools.
Samkhya Darshana: This philosophy posits two fundamental principles: Prakriti (nature) and Purusha (consciousness). Prakriti is the material cause of the universe, while Purusha is the pure consciousness that witnesses the play of Prakriti. The goal of human life, according to Samkhya, is to liberate Purusha from the clutches of Prakriti through knowledge.
Yoga Darshana: Yoga philosophy explains the concept of Parama-Purusha, the supreme consciousness. This supreme being is the source of all existence and the ultimate goal of yogic practices.
Upanishads: These ancient texts explore the nature of reality and the self. They often portray the universe as the interplay of two fundamental principles: Shakti (divine feminine energy) and Purusha (divine masculine energy). The Upanishads emphasize the interplay of these two forces and their role in the creation and sustenance of the cosmos.
Yogashiksha Upanishad: This Upanishad goes a step further and identifies the sacred syllable “Om” as the embodiment of both Shiva and Shakti. The two sides of “Om” represent the masculine and feminine aspects of reality, highlighting the interconnectedness of all things.
Ardhanarishwara in Agama Shastra: The Agama Shastras, a collection of ancient Hindu texts, provide detailed explanations of the Ardhanarishwara iconography. They delve into the symbolism and significance of this divine form, emphasizing its role in Shaivism.The right side of Ardhanarishwara, representing Shiva, symbolizes consciousness, stillness, and detachment. The left side, representing Parvati, symbolizes energy, creativity, and the material world.
Key takeaways:
– Study Yogashiksha Upanishad and understand its meaning from a scholars.
– Adopt the idea of Ardhanarishwara in your meditative practices.
In the next article, we will discuss – “Pashupata-Brahma Upanishad”.
Madhwesh K
Vedic Tribe
