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Meditation In Svetasvatara Upanishad – How To Meditate And Benefits

 According to Svetasvatara Upanishad, one realizes the highest goal of life through meditation, which involves both the process of self knowledge and self discipline.

Svetasvatara Upanishad deals with questions regarding the cause of the universe, the origin of the universe, the origin of our birth and what is Brahman. Different sages gave different answers to the questions. As there was no consensus, they decided to do dhyana. During that process of dhyana, all the sages had a vision of the universe, which resembled a wheel. “In this infinite wheel of Brahman, in where everything lives and rests, the pilgrim soul is whirled about. Knowing the individual soul, hitherto regarded as separate, to be itself the moving force, and blessed by him, it attains immortality.”

The individual self is regarded as God’s own power, which on account of its svaguna (quality) appears as the self. The person who surrenders to Brahman gradually becomes one with Him. He becomes free from illusion (maya). He is no longer affected by sorrow, and he is freed from the vicious circle of life and death. He realizes that this is the highest goal to be achieved.

The person should choose a place that is level free from gravel, sand, fire, noise and the murmur of water. In such a place, the mind of the person will remain calm and his eyes as well as the mind will not get distracted. He may even go into a cave that is protected by the wind and start the practice of meditation.

When starting meditation, the body should be erect. The head, throat and chest should be in a straight line. All the senses should be withdrawn and one should concentrate on Brahman. Breath should be controlled. The mind should be governed, as one would govern a chariot drawn by unruly horses.

While in dhyana, the person is first likely to encounter forms that appear as snow, smoke, wind, sun, lightening of moon. All these forms are a preparation for the revelation of Brahman. The result of meditation is that the person is cleansed of all impurities and shines like a mirror that has recently been cleaned. He is no more susceptible to sickness, old age or sorrow. He has realized God, who is within everyone’s heart and becomes free from all earthly bonds. Having attained the knowledge of Brahman, he clings only to Him. Only those who realize that He is in the heart will be able to see Him. Brahman can be realized only by those who have faith.