The Ninth Khanda of the Third Chapter of the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad, known as the Sakalya Brahmana, is an important section that delves into the nature of Brahman and the interconnectedness of all deities, ultimately leading to a profound understanding of the oneness of existence. The dialogue primarily revolves around the question of the number of gods, posed by Sakalya to the sage Yajnavalkya, and the deeper spiritual truth revealed through this interaction.
Detailed Explanation and Key Themes
Dialogue Between Sakalya and Yajnavalkya: The Khanda begins with Sakalya questioning Yajnavalkya about the number of gods. Yajnavalkya, with a didactic approach, answers in stages:
- First, he mentions a large number, stating there are 3,306 gods.
- As Sakalya continues to probe, the number is successively reduced to 33, then 6, then 3, then 2, and finally 1 and a half, before arriving at the ultimate truth: One.
The One God – Hiranyagarbha: Yajnavalkya explains that all these gods are essentially manifestations of a single divine reality, known as Hiranyagarbha, which represents the cosmic aspect of Prana (the vital force). This signifies that although there are many deities, they all emerge from and merge back into one unified reality, illustrating the non-duality of existence.
Symbolism of the Enumerations: The reduction in the number of gods symbolizes the progressive realization of the ultimate truth. The dialogue emphasizes the move from the multiplicity of forms to the unity of essence, reflecting the essence of Advaita (non-dualism). This shows that the distinctions we perceive in the universe are merely superficial, and at the core, all is one – Brahman.
The Root of Rebirth: Yajnavalkya’s final question to the assembled Brahmanas addresses the cycle of rebirth. He asks if they know the root from which a dead person is reborn, comparing it to a tree that regrows from its original root after being cut down. The Brahmanas are unable to answer, revealing their limited understanding. Yajnavalkya then declares that this root is Brahman – the ultimate consciousness and bliss, which is the source of all existence, knowledge, and joy.
Brahman as the Ultimate Reality: The Upanishad emphasizes that Brahman is the substratum of everything, both for those involved in ritualistic practices and for those pursuing knowledge of the Self. This root – Brahman – is the ultimate goal and refuge for all beings.
Importance and Symbolism
Unity of Divine Forms: The dialogue serves to dismantle the notion of polytheism by highlighting that all gods are various aspects of a singular divine principle. This teaches the aspirant to look beyond the multiplicity of forms and recognize the underlying unity.
Cosmic Order and Prana: Hiranyagarbha as the cosmic Prana signifies the life force that sustains the universe. This symbolizes that all life, movement, and energy originate from a singular divine source.
Concept of Rebirth and Continuity: By comparing the rebirth of beings to a tree regrowing from its root, the Upanishad underscores the eternal nature of the soul, hinting at the continuity of life and the inevitability of rebirth until liberation (moksha) is achieved.
Yajnavalkya’s Pedagogical Approach: Yajnavalkya’s method of teaching through questions and progressively revealing the truth reflects the Upanishadic style of guiding the seeker from ignorance to knowledge through introspection and inquiry.
Current Status, Practicality, and Usage in Modern Times
Relevance in Modern Spirituality: The Ninth Khanda’s teachings resonate with modern spiritual practices that emphasize unity, non-duality, and the interconnectedness of all beings. It aligns with contemporary ideas of universal consciousness and the oneness of humanity.
Practical Application: In today’s world, where religious and cultural diversity often leads to conflict, the Sakalya Brahmana’s message of underlying unity can foster tolerance, harmony, and mutual respect among different faiths. Understanding that all paths ultimately lead to the same truth can encourage inclusivity.
Self-Realization and Mindfulness: The concept of identifying oneself with Hiranyagarbha – the universal life force – encourages individuals to transcend egoistic boundaries and experience the interconnected nature of existence. This can be related to modern mindfulness and self-awareness practices, promoting a holistic view of the self and the universe.
Scientific Parallels: The idea of a single source from which all forms emerge and into which they return parallels scientific theories like the Big Bang and the conservation of energy, suggesting that all matter and energy are interconnected and constantly in flux.
Lesser-Known Facts
Philosophical Depth: The repeated questioning style in the dialogue mirrors the neti-neti (not this, not this) approach, a common method in Vedantic philosophy used to strip away illusions and reveal the essence of truth.
Sakalya’s Role: Sakalya, despite being a learned Brahmana, serves as a foil to Yajnavalkya’s wisdom. His inability to answer the final question emphasizes that mere intellectual knowledge without inner realization is insufficient for understanding the ultimate truth.
Connection to Later Advaita: The themes explored in this Khanda are foundational to later Advaita Vedanta, particularly as expounded by Adi Shankaracharya. The emphasis on the oneness of Brahman laid the groundwork for the non-dualistic interpretations that became prominent in Indian philosophy.
Modern-Day Relevance
The Ninth Khanda’s emphasis on unity amidst diversity is more relevant than ever in today’s multicultural, interconnected world. It encourages individuals to look beyond superficial divisions, recognize the shared essence of all existence, and seek deeper spiritual truths. This can be a powerful tool for fostering peace, understanding, and a sense of global oneness.