ॐ
सह नाववतु ।
सह नौ भुनक्तु । सह वीर्यं करवावहै ।
तेजस्वि नावधीतमस्तु मा विद्विषावहै ।
ॐ शान्तिः शान्तिः शान्तिः ॥
oṃ saha nāvavatu। saha nau bhunaktu।
saha vīryaṃ karavāvahai।
tejasvināvadhītamastu mā vidviṣāvahai॥
oṃ śāṃti, śāṃti, śāṃtiḥ
May divine protection encompass both the disciple and the teacher in unity. May the fruits of learning be shared joyously by both of us. Together, let us acquire the strength to pursue knowledge. May our studies shine brightly in unison. Let envy find no place between us. The purity of such sentiments preserves the mind, paving the way for a pristine future to unfold.
ॐ
-Tattiriya Upanishad.
Previously, I recited these lines daily as a school prayer, yet now, I comprehend their profound significance. These verses eloquently capture the essence of collaboration, shared learning, mutual respect, and the quest for knowledge within a harmonious, supportive environment. They underscore the vital role of emotional and mental purity in the educational process. Remarkably, these sentiments align with the core objective of the Taittiriya Upanishad – guiding individuals on a spiritual odyssey, enabling them to grasp the profound truths of existence. The Upanishad aims for self-realization, ethical conduct, and a deeper connection with the divine or universal consciousness.
In the vast treasury of ancient Indian scriptures, the Upanishads stand as beacons of spiritual wisdom, offering profound insights into the nature of reality, consciousness, and the path to self-realization. One such Upanishad that has captured the hearts and minds of seekers for millennia is the Taittiriya Upanishad. This sacred text is a jewel among the philosophical and metaphysical writings that make up the Upanishadic tradition.
The Taittiriya Upanishad is a part of the Yajur Veda, one of the four Vedas, and it is revered for its deep philosophical teachings. It is divided into three distinct sections, each known as a “Valli,” each offering unique wisdom and guidance.
The first Valli, known as “Siksha Valli,” delves into the science of phonetics, pronunciation, and the significance of Vedic sounds and letters. It is essentially a guide on how to chant and recite the Vedas correctly, emphasizing the importance of accurate pronunciation in the transmission of Vedic knowledge.
The second Valli, “Brahmananda Valli,” delves into the nature of Brahman (the ultimate reality) and the Atman (the individual self). It explores the relationship between these two fundamental aspects of existence, providing deep philosophical insights into the nature of consciousness and the path to self-realization.
The third Valli, “Bhrigu Valli,” takes us on a journey through the story of the sage Bhrigu’s spiritual quest to understand the nature of Brahman. It imparts wisdom on meditation and contemplation, guiding seekers on the path to realizing the supreme truth.
Throughout the Taittiriya Upanishad, we find teachings that encourage introspection, self-inquiry, and a profound understanding of the interconnectedness of all existence. It invites us to explore the depths of our own consciousness, to question the nature of reality, and to seek unity with the divine.
In this blog series, we will embark on a journey through the Taittiriya Upanishad, exploring its timeless wisdom, its relevance in today’s world, and how its teachings can enrich our lives. Join us as we delve into the profound truths and spiritual guidance offered by this ancient and revered Upanishad.