Miscellaneous - Religion   

How Upanishads teach

CHENNAI: Gaining an insight into the nature of the truths of existence and the realities of life is in fact the true aim of education. Who created this universe and the entire range of beings with their individual forms, qualities, names, etc? What is true knowledge and how is one to gain it? What is the purpose of life on earth? The answers to such questions lie beyond reason and logic and belong to the realm of mystical experience and are to be gleaned from the Upanishads that exemplify an ideal teaching learning atmosphere, pointed out Sri Goda Venkateswara Sastrigal in a lecture. There are instances when disciples are encouraged to ask questions so that each one arrives at the truth in the spirit of individual conviction.

In the Prasnopanishad, for instance, the unique quality of guru-sishya relationship is highlighted. From the interaction between the six seekers of truth and sage Pippalada, it is seen that the sage, though a jnani, displays modesty and offers to answer their doubts to the best of his knowledge. Secondly, his answers are not only exhaustive but also reveal his ability to sense the unexpressed doubts in the minds of his disciples whose questions are sometimes phrased inadequately.

The preceptor initially asks them to practise penance for a year and then come back to him. This explains the value of sadhana (observance of austerities) that is indispensable for a spiritual aspirant. Jnana is not easily gained and every aspirant qualifies only by his strong determination to pursue this search.

The sage answers a series of questions on the esoteric matters of creation, human personality and the metaphysical principle in man. The truth that atma (Self) is the prime mover of the human being is explained. Prana is more important than the senses and the mind experiences the outside world through the senses. If the mind is engaged in worldly activities it gets caught in samsara and is unable to recognise its innate and immortal Self.

Since everything in this world is ephemeral in nature, when an individual in due course understands and yearns for the permanent and everlasting, such a yearning finds fulfilment in the teachings of the Upanishads.

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