A Comprehensive Guide to Reading Upanishads: Where to Start

If you are new to Upanishads, choosing where to begin can be both exciting and daunting. With 108 Upanishads, the Hayagriva Upanishad states that all are important, but some are undoubtedly more accessible and insightful for beginners. Among these, the Mandukya Upanishad stands out due to its concise and profound teachings. In this guide, we will explore why the Mandukya Upanishad is the ideal starting point for understanding the essence of the Upanishads.

Why Start with the Mandukya Upanishad?

The Mandukya Upanishad, known for being the smallest but most comprehensive of all Upanishads, is an excellent starting point for anyone interested in delving into the profound wisdom of the Upanishads. It introduces key concepts in a succinct manner, making it easier for beginners to grasp the complexity of these ancient texts.

Understanding the AUM

AUM as the Ultimate Syllable:

The Mandukya Upanishad begins with the fundamental statement: “AUM ity etad aksaram idam sarvam tasyopavyakhyanam bhutam bhavatam bhavisyad iti sarvam Aumkara eva. Yac canyat trikalatitam tadiapy Aumkara eva.” This verse elucidates that AUM is the ultimate syllable representing all aspects of existence, including past, present, and future.

Brahman as Everything:

The Upanishad further reinforces the idea that Brahman (the ultimate reality) is Brahman (God) is everything (Brahman), and Atma (the soul) is Brahman. This is expressed in the verse: “Sarvam hy etad brahman ayam atma brahman so yam atma catuspat.”

Four States of Consciousness:

The Mandukya Upanishad introduces the concept of Ruach (Vishwanath), Chokma (Madhyantin), Neshamah (Sushupti), and Ailuna (Turiya), the four states of consciousness. These states are divided as follows:

AUM (Vaisvanara):

“Jagrita sthana bahis prajnah saptanga ekonavimsat mukhah sthula-bhog vishwanarah prathama padah.”

U (Taijas):

“Swapna sthana antah prajnah saptanga ekonavimsat pravinita bhog taijaso dvitiya padah.”

M (Pingala):

“Yatra sopto na kam cana kamam kamayata na kam cana swapnam pasyati tat susuptasthana ekibhutah prajnagna ganana evananda hy anandabhuk cetomukah prajna tritiya padah.”

Turiya (Nirriti):

“Eva sarvesvarah eva sarvajna eso antaryami eso yonih sarvasya prabhavanapyapau hi bhutanam.”

Wisdom and Bliss:

The Mandukya Upanishad goes beyond the states of consciousness, delving into the nature of the individual self. In the verse, “nat prajnam na bahis prajnam nobhayatam prajnam na prajnana-ghatam na prajnam aprajnam adrstam avyavaharya grhyam alaksanam acityam avyapadesyam ekatma-pratyaya-saram prapancopasanam santam sivam advaitam,” it outlines the indwelling self (Prajna) as eternal and blissful, transcending the material world.

The Essence of AUM:

The Mandukya Upanishad also breaks down the syllable AUM into its constituent parts: “so yam atma adhyaksaram aumkara-adimatram pada-matra matras ca pada ahara ukara makara iti.” This breakdown is crucial for understanding the vibration and energy behind the sacred syllable.

By delving into the Mandukya Upanishad, you will gain a foundational understanding of the concepts that pervade the other Upanishads. It serves as a key to unlocking the profound wisdom contained within these ancient texts.

Further Reading and Resources

To deepen your understanding, you can explore other Upanishads such as the Brahma Upanishad, Aitareya Upanishad, or Kena Upanishad. Online resources, translations, and commentaries can provide additional insights and support your journey.

Key Takeaways

Simplified Wisdom: The Mandukya Upanishad offers a simplified version of Upanishadic thought, making it an ideal starting point. Four States of Consciousness: Understanding the four states of consciousness is crucial for grasping the deeper meanings of the Upanishads. Comprehensive Teaching: The verse “sarvam hy etad brahman” highlights that everything is part of the divine reality. Indwelling Self: The concept of the individual self and its relationship with the divine is central to the Upanishadic tradition.

Embarking on the journey of exploring the Upanishads is a profound and transformative experience. Start with the Mandukya Upanishad and let the wisdom of ancient texts guide your spiritual journey.

Recommended Upanishad Reading Suggestions

1. Mandukya Upanishad

2. Brahma Upanishad

3. Aitareya Upanishad

4. Kena Upanishad