Introduction
The Upanishads, particularly when studied through the lens of Advaita Vedanta, provide some of the deepest teachings on the nature of the self and ultimate reality. Among these, certain mantras serve as direct pointers to the truth of Atma (Self) and Brahman (Absolute Reality). The mantra in this study session highlights that beyond the three states of waking, dreaming, and deep sleep, there exists the pure, unchanging consciousness—our true essence. This teaching aligns with the ancient method of self-inquiry (ātma-vichāra), asking “Who am I?” It transcends intellectual debate and directs seekers toward direct experience of the self. Through meditation, mantra repetition, and inner reflection, practitioners internalize this truth and live from the space of timeless awareness. Click Here To More Detail.
Themes
- Non-duality (Advaita): Reality is one without a second. The self (Atma) is not separate from Brahman.
- Transcending States of Consciousness: Moving beyond waking, dream, and deep sleep to realize Turiya—the ever-present awareness.
- Mind as a Tool: The mind helps inquiry but must eventually dissolve for intuition and direct realization to arise.
- Second Birth: Awakening to true identity through Vedantic knowledge, beyond physical birth.
- Experiential Realization: Shifting from theoretical understanding to living wisdom through meditation and mantra.
- Freedom Beyond Death and Duality: Realization leads to liberation (moksha), freedom from fear, and peace while living. Click To Access For Video.
Keywords
- Atma (Self): The innermost consciousness, beyond body and mind.
- Brahman: The ultimate, unchanging reality underlying all appearances.
- Advaita Vedanta: The non-dual philosophy affirming Atma = Brahman.
- Maya: Illusion or appearance of the world.
- Turiya: The “fourth” state—pure awareness beyond waking, dream, and deep sleep.
- Jivanmukta: One who is liberated while still alive.
- Self-Inquiry (Ātma-Vichāra): The method of asking “Who am I?” to realize the self.
Why Study
Studying this mantra and its meaning is not just for philosophical enrichment but for transformative inner awakening. The reasons include:
- To realize the true self as pure consciousness.
- To end identification with body, mind, and world, which are impermanent.
- To overcome fear of death, recognizing the self as immortal.
- To integrate scriptural wisdom with direct meditation practice.
- To cultivate equanimity, detachment, and inner peace in everyday life. Click To Access For Video.
Benefits
- Spiritual Liberation (Moksha): Freedom from the cycle of birth and death through realization of the self.
- Peace of Mind: Understanding the transient nature of the world reduces anxiety and attachment.
- Fearlessness: Realizing the self as deathless removes existential fears.
- Clarity and Detachment: Seeing reality as it is helps navigate life with balance.
- Inner Joy: Awareness of one’s true essence brings natural bliss independent of external conditions.
- Integration of Wisdom: The knowledge shifts from intellectual to experiential, transforming life at its core.
How Many Times to Study per Day?
The Upanishadic teachings are subtle and require regular, repeated contemplation. A suggested rhythm is:
- Morning (after waking): Read or chant the mantra and meditate for 15–30 minutes. Sets the tone for the day.
- Midday/Break Time: Short reflection or silent repetition of the mantra to anchor awareness.
- Evening (before sleep): Read or recall the meaning again, meditate 15–30 minutes. Helps detach from daily experiences.
👉 Ideally, 2–3 focused sessions daily (even 5–10 minutes each) are sufficient for gradual internalization. Consistency is more important than duration. Click To Access For Video.
Conclusion
This mantra study is not about collecting knowledge but about awakening to one’s true essence. It shows that the world and body are transient, while the self—the pure consciousness—is eternal. By transcending the waking, dream, and deep sleep states, the practitioner abides in Turiya, the fourth state of awareness, which is ever-present and changeless. Through daily study, meditation, and mantra repetition, seekers gradually dissolve ignorance (avidyā) and awaken to the truth that Atma is Brahman. This realization is the second birth, a spiritual rebirth into freedom, fearlessness, and bliss. The journey from intellectual understanding to experiential wisdom transforms life completely, leading to the highest fulfillment: living as the immortal, non-dual self—free, whole, and eternal.
