ॐ पूर्णमदः पूर्णमिदं पूर्णात् पूर्णमुदच्यते। पूर्णस्य पूर्णमादाय पूर्णमेवावशिष्यते॥ (Brihadaranyaka Upanishad, 5.1.1)
‘The mantra "Om Purnam Adah Purnam Idam" is a
shanti mantra and it comes from the Ishavasya Upanishad and the Brihadaranyaka
Upanishad, both belonging to the Shukla Yajurveda. It serves as a peace
invocation, invoking the Supreme Consciousness, Brahman.
Purnam adah: This indicates that Brahman, the ultimate
reality, is omnipresent and all-pervading. Just as space exists everywhere
without limitation, Brahman permeates everything in existence.
Purnam idam: This part of the mantra signifies that
everything perceived as limited and distinct in the manifest world is also
Brahman in essence. Despite appearances of diversity and multiplicity, all
phenomena are fundamentally rooted in Brahman.
Purnat purnam udacyate: Here, it is suggested that the
manifest world emerges from Brahman as its cause. The diversity and
multiplicity of the world are manifestations of the underlying unity of
Brahman.
Purnasya purnam adaya: Through the knowledge of the Self
(Atmavidya), one recognizes the inherent oneness of all existence. By
overcoming the ignorance of separateness and understanding that even the
manifest world is an expression of Brahman, one attains realization.
Purnam eva avashishyate: This part emphasizes that only
Brahman remains in the end, both within and without. Brahman is characterized
by pure knowledge and consciousness, transcending all limitations and
dualities.
Acharya Shankaracharya's commentary highlights three key
points for contemplation:
Oneness of Brahman: Everything, including the manifest world
and pure Consciousness, is Brahman. This realization is the ultimate truth of
existence.
Cause-effect relationship: There is a causal connection
between Brahman and the manifest world. The diversity of the world emanates
from the underlying unity of Brahman.
Sadhana towards realization: Despite the truth of Brahman,
one must engage in spiritual practices (Sadhana) to attain this knowledge. Mere
intellectual understanding is insufficient; one must internalize and realize
the truth experientially.
In summary, the mantra "Om Purnam Adah Purnam Idam" encapsulates profound truths about the nature of reality, emphasizing the omnipresence of Brahman, the unity underlying diversity, and the importance of spiritual realization through Sadhana.