What is Upanishad ?
The Upanishads are ancient Indian spiritual texts that form the core teachings of Vedanta philosophy. They are considered the essence of the Vedas, focusing on the knowledge (Jnana) part, specifically spiritual wisdom and self-realization. For more information Click here
Meaning of the Word “Upanishad”
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- “Upa” = near
- “Ni” = down
- “Shad” = to sit
It literally means “sitting down near” the teacher (Guru) to receive secret, sacred knowledge.
Adi Shankaracharya explains that the word means Ātmavidyā, that is, “knowledge of the self”, or Brahmavidyā “knowledge of Brahman”.
“Upanishad” can mean:
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- Destroys ignorance
- Leads to the ultimate truth
- Loosens the bondage of worldly life
- Reveals the Supreme Knowledge (Brahma Vidya)
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Adi Shankaracharya: The Sage Who Unveiled the Truth of the Upanishads
Adi Shankaracharya (circa 8th century CE) was a great Indian philosopher, saint, and teacher, regarded as the reviver of Advaita Vedanta, the non-dualistic interpretation of the Vedas. Born in Kalady, Kerala, he traveled across India on foot, debating scholars, writing commentaries, and establishing four mathas (monastic centers) in the four directions of India. He’s known for his Bhashyas (commentaries) on the Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and Brahma Sutras, laying the foundation of Advaita Vedanta philosophy.
What Is He Trying to Tell About the Upanishads?
Adi Shankaracharya revealed the ultimate truth hidden in the Upanishads: There is only one reality—Brahman, the infinite, unchanging consciousness. You are not this body or mind; you are that limitless Self. The world we perceive is Maya, an illusion that veils the truth of oneness. Shankara’s timeless teaching declares: Atman and Brahman are one—realize this, and you are free. Liberation (Moksha) is not something to be gained, but an awakening to what you already are: pure, boundless existence and bliss. Through discrimination (Viveka) and detachment (Vairagya), Shankaracharya guides the seeker beyond ignorance into the light of Self-realization, where there is no fear, no sorrow—only the truth of oneness and eternal freedom.
In simple terms Upanishads are telling you:
- You are not this body or mind; you are the infinite Self.
- This world is a play of appearances (Maya).
- Realize your oneness with Brahman, and you are free.
Main Teaching of Upanishads ?
The Upanishads are Vedanta, the concluding part of the Vedas (Veda-anta = “End of the Vedas”).
They contain spiritual discussions on:
- Brahman: The ultimate, infinite reality beyond all forms.
- Atman: The innermost essence of an individual, identical with Brahman.
- Moksha: Liberation from the cycle of birth and death (samsara).
- Maya: Illusion or ignorance that veils the true nature of reality.
Why Do the Upanishads Exist?
To Teach the Highest Knowledge
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- The Upanishads are the final teachings of the Vedas (Vedanta = “end of the Vedas”).
- They go beyond rituals and tell us:
- “You are not just the body or mind. Your true nature is the infinite, eternal Self (Atman), identical with Brahman.”
To Answer Life’s Deepest Questions
- Who am I?
- What is the nature of reality?
- What happens after death?
- How do I attain permanent happiness (Ananda)?
To Lead to Liberation (Moksha)
- The goal of life, according to the Upanishads, is to realize the Self, gain freedom from suffering, and become liberated (Moksha).
Importance of Upanishads
1. Atman = Brahman
- Atman: The innermost self or soul of an individual.
- Brahman: The supreme, infinite, unchanging reality underlying the universe.
- The Upanishads teach that “Tat Tvam Asi” (That Thou Art), meaning your true self is not separate from the ultimate reality.
2. The World Is Impermanent (Maya)
- The physical world is ever-changing and temporary. Maya is the illusion that makes us believe in separateness and duality.
- Real wisdom comes when one sees beyond the illusion to the eternal, unchanging truth.
3. Self-Knowledge Leads to Liberation (Moksha)
- Liberation is not achieved through rituals, wealth, or worldly achievements, but through Jnana (knowledge).
- Realizing the unity of Atman and Brahman frees one from the cycle of birth and death (Samsara).
4. Inner Experience Over External Rituals
- While earlier parts of the Vedas focus on karma kanda (rituals and duties), the Upanishads shift focus to jnana kanda (knowledge and inner experience).
- They encourage meditation, introspection, and self-inquiry.
5. Brahman Is Formless, Nameless, Beyond Comprehension
- Brahman is described as Nirguna (without qualities) and Nirakara (formless).
- Yet, it is the source, sustainer, and absorber of everything.
6. Ethical Living (Dharma)
- Qualities like truthfulness (Satya), self-control (Dama), non-violence (Ahimsa), and compassion are seen as essential for preparing the mind to realize the Self.
7. Four Mahavakyas (Great Sayings):
- Tat Tvam Asi (You Are That) – Chandogya Upanishad
- Aham Brahmasmi (I Am Brahman) – Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
- Prajnanam Brahma (Consciousness Is Brahman) – Aitareya Upanishad
- Ayam Atma Brahma (This Self Is Brahman) – Mandukya Upanishad
Upanishads – Summary of 12 Upanishads
The 12 Principal Upanishads explore the nature of Brahman (Ultimate Reality) and Atman (the Self), revealing their essential oneness. They teach that liberation (Moksha) comes through self-knowledge, transcending illusion (Maya) and the cycle of birth and death. Core Mahavakyas like Tat Tvam Asi and Aham Brahmasmi emphasize the unity of the individual soul with the infinite consciousness. Through dialogues, metaphors, and meditation on Om, they offer timeless wisdom for realizing inner freedom and eternal bliss. For more information Click Here.
Conclusion
Because human beings are seeking truth, freedom, and happiness, the Upanishads guide us to realize that we are already that infinite, eternal reality—we just need to know it deeply. Adi Shankaracharya’s job was to clear the path by interpreting the Upanishads clearly, so anyone seeking truth could understand and experience it.
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