The Atmaprabodha Upanishad explores the supremacy of Narayana and the significance of the ashtakshari (eight-syllabled) mantra. Within its verses, the Atma Prabodha Upanishad text delves into the subjective experience of the jivanmukta, the liberated individual who has transcended the illusions of maya and recognizes their unity with the innermost Self. Consequently, they stand beyond the influence of the three gunas and the conventional codes of conduct that ensnare those lacking awareness. This liberated being embodies perpetual purity and infinite consciousness, representing the very essence sought by scriptures.
In this enlightened state, all beings and the entire realm
of creation coexist within them, akin to how bubbles and waves exist within the
vast ocean. Their inherent nature is one of unending bliss, shielding them from
any sorrow or suffering. Sadly, the majority of people in the world remain
unaware of their true nature, much like an owl oblivious to the radiant
brilliance of the sun.
Atma Prabodha Upanishad Teachings On Jivanmukta
The concept of a Jivanmukta, or a liberated being, holds profound significance in various spiritual traditions, particularly in the context of Hindu philosophy. A Jivanmukta is believed to have transcended the illusions of Maya, realizing their ultimate identity with the inmost Self or the divine consciousness. This elevated state liberates them from the influence of the three gunas (modes of nature) and the conventional codes of conduct that bind those who are still entangled in ignorance.
In the realization of their true nature, the Jivanmukta exists as an embodiment of pure, infinite consciousness. The scriptures, revered guides in many spiritual traditions, seek to illuminate the path to this realization of the self. Within the liberated being, the entire spectrum of creation, including all beings and objects, is perceived as existing, much like bubbles and waves exist within the vast expanse of the ocean.
An inherent quality of the Jivanmukta is their perpetual state of bliss, untainted by sorrow or suffering. This bliss stems from a profound understanding and experience of the interconnectedness of all existence, as well as a transcendence of the dualities that characterize the material world.
Yet, despite the potential for liberation, the majority of people remain unaware of their true nature. The analogy of the owl, oblivious to the brilliant light of the sun, reflects the ignorance that shrouds the understanding of one's inherent divinity. This ignorance leads individuals to identify with the transient aspects of the material world, perpetuating the cycle of suffering and delusion.