Miscellaneous - Religion   

In search of the Self

CHENNAI: The Upanishads adopt many means and methods to give expression to the esoteric nature of the Absolute Reality. From simple analogies (similes, stories, anecdotes, etc.,) to cryptic statements that allow multiple interpretations, the teaching focuses on righteous living, the nature of the Self, the search for Truth, etc. The real nature of the Self is described as Sat-Chit-Ananda (the essence of Truth, Consciousness and Bliss). Each Upanishad says this from different angles. But this truth is forgotten when the Self is caught in a limited environment such as the gross material body.

The Kenopanishad, in the form of a dialogue, explores the nature of the Self to highlight its elusiveness and also its unmistakable presence, pointed out Sri R. Krishnamurthy Sastrigal in a discourse. So subtle is the Self that it evades the grasp of the human senses; yet it is the very force that activates the senses.

Another analogy that is used to describe the eternal bliss which is the Self’s innate quality is the state of deep sleep which human beings experience. Any individual (irrespective of birth, status, learning or wealth) describes the state of deep sleep as a state of happiness with no worldly involvement, and with no contact with the senses. The only predominant feeling is one of joy. If one understands that the Self within each one is entitled to such happiness, then one would learn to distance oneself from worldly joys and sorrows.

This truth is approached in a different manner in the Katopanishad, which symbolically represents the human mind’s thirst for ultimate knowledge along with the spirit of determination and renunciation that are crucial in this pursuit. Nachiketas, the son of Vajisravas, is placed in a unique situation when he confronts Yama in his abode.

Nachiketas is determined to know the fundamental truths of life, death and life beyond, and makes use of this opportunity to seek instruction from one who is most competent to clarify his doubts. He comes out successful through the severe tests that Yama subjects him to. He resists the temptations of the glories and wealth of the celestial worlds, knowing that all these are time bound.

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