Fourth Khanda – Purushavidha Brahmana of the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad: Detailed Explanation and Modern Relevance
The First Chapter Fourth Khanda, also known as the Purushavidha Brahmana, is one of the most significant sections of the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad. It delves deeply into cosmogony, the nature of creation, and the relationship between the individual self (Atman) and the Supreme Self (Purusha or Prajapati). Here, the creation of the universe is described in allegorical and symbolic terms, and important philosophical concepts such as the origin of beings, the role of the Supreme Self, and the cosmic order (dharma) are explored.
The Central Narrative
In the Purushavidha Brahmana, the entire universe is described as being contained within the Supreme Being, known as Purusha, Prajapati, or Viraj. Before creation, everything existed undifferentiated in the body of the Purusha. He then desired a companion (or mate), which led to the process of creation. By the force of his will, he projected another being from himself, which then split into two: Manu (the male principle) and Shatarupa (the female principle). This union between the male and female forms gave rise to all living beings, not only in human form but extending to all forms of life, even the smallest creatures like ants.
This process of creation is not just physical but also spiritual. It signifies the dynamic interplay between consciousness (Purusha) and matter (Prakriti). The Supreme Being, although manifest in creation, remains unchanged and unaffected by the diversity of forms. This symbolizes the eternal, unchanging nature of the Supreme Self, which pervades all life but is untouched by its transient qualities.
The Symbolism of Creation
Purusha and Shatarupa: The division of Purusha into male and female principles reflects the duality inherent in the manifest world—matter and spirit, subject and object, action and witness. However, it also shows their essential unity, as all forms of creation are ultimately parts of the same original source.
Manu and Shatarupa: These figures symbolize the first human pair, representing the archetypal male and female, from whom the rest of creation arises. The union between them is symbolic of the interplay between consciousness (Purusha) and the material world (Prakriti), which gives rise to the manifold creation.
Unchanged Purusha: Even though the Supreme Being creates the universe, he remains untouched and untainted by the actions or the beings that emerge. This illustrates the key Vedantic principle that the Supreme Self (Atman) is beyond the workings of the world, the ego, and ignorance (avidya).
Classification of Gods and Castes
The Upanishad goes on to classify the gods based on the symbolic representation of the four castes in Vedic society:
Agni as Brahmana: Agni, the god of fire, is associated with the priestly class (Brahmanas), representing knowledge, spirituality, and the role of the intellect in performing rituals and sacrifices.
Indra, Varuna, Soma, Yama, and Ishana as Kshatriyas: These deities are associated with the warrior class, symbolizing power, protection, and governance. Kshatriyas uphold dharma, defend the cosmic and societal order, and are linked to strength and leadership.
Vasus, Rudras, and Adityas as Vaishyas: These gods represent the mercantile class (Vaishyas), responsible for agriculture, commerce, and the economy. They symbolize prosperity, wealth, and sustenance.
Pusan as Shudra: Pusan, a god associated with nourishment and shepherding, is linked to the laboring class (Shudras). The Shudras are essential for the maintenance of society, fulfilling roles that support the other castes.
This classification highlights that all beings, from gods to humans, have distinct roles and responsibilities. The castes and cosmic functions are not hierarchical but interdependent, each crucial for the balance and order of the universe.
Importance of Dharma and Panchayajnas
The Purushavidha Brahmana emphasizes the creation of dharma, or cosmic order, which governs and regulates all beings and aspects of existence. Dharma ensures harmony and balance within the universe, and living beings must adhere to it to maintain societal and spiritual order.
The text also emphasizes the importance of discharging one's debts through the panchayajnas, or the five daily sacrifices:
- Deva Yajna: Sacrifices to the gods, symbolizing our gratitude for divine blessings.
- Pitri Yajna: Sacrifices to the ancestors, representing respect for our lineage.
- Brahma Yajna: Sacrifices to knowledge and wisdom, emphasizing the pursuit of truth.
- Bhuta Yajna: Sacrifices to all beings, acknowledging our interconnectedness with other forms of life.
- Manushya Yajna: Sacrifices to humans, representing service to humanity and society.
Spiritual Meaning and Liberation
The text concludes with a profound insight into spiritual life: desire is the fundamental force that binds a person to the cycle of birth and death. Ignorance (avidya) causes the identification of the self with the body-mind complex, leading to suffering. The only way to attain liberation (moksha) is through meditation on the Atman, the realization that the true Self is none other than the Supreme Self, free from all action and suffering. Those who fail to realize this remain trapped in ignorance and must endure the consequences.
Modern Relevance and Practicality
Symbolic of Inner Unity: The philosophical essence of the Purushavidha Brahmana remains highly relevant in the modern context. The notion of the universe being an extension of the Supreme Being, and the individual self being inseparable from the cosmic self, encourages a sense of oneness and interconnectedness. This can foster a deeper respect for the environment, other living beings, and humanity itself.
Mindful Living: The emphasis on discharging one's debts and fulfilling responsibilities through panchayajnas can be understood today as an ethical call for responsible living. Gratitude toward nature (Deva Yajna), respect for our ancestors (Pitri Yajna), pursuit of knowledge (Brahma Yajna), service to humanity (Manushya Yajna), and compassion for all beings (Bhuta Yajna) are timeless principles that promote holistic well-being.
Desire and Suffering: The Upanishadic teaching that desire binds individuals to the cycle of suffering aligns with modern psychological insights about attachment, desires, and emotional turmoil. In a world filled with distractions and material pursuits, this wisdom encourages inner reflection, mindfulness, and detachment for personal peace.
Lesser-Known Facts and Interpretations
Creation Myth and Psycho-Spiritual Allegory: While the narrative seems to describe a physical process of creation, many scholars interpret it as a symbolic description of the evolution of consciousness. The creation of male and female principles could represent the unfolding of duality from the non-dual consciousness, which is central to Advaita Vedanta philosophy.
Connection to Social Harmony: The classification of gods into castes also serves as an allegory for social harmony. The Upanishadic vision suggests that all roles, whether spiritual (Brahmana), protective (Kshatriya), economic (Vaishya), or supportive (Shudra), are essential for the welfare of society, highlighting an ideal of cooperation over hierarchy.
The Fourth Khanda of First Chapter, Purushavidha Brahmana of the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad offers profound metaphysical insights into the nature of creation, the unity of all beings, and the eternal, changeless nature of the Supreme Self. Its teachings about desire, dharma, the nature of self, and the duties of humans are timeless and remain relevant even in the complexities of modern life. The call for realizing the oneness of all existence and the importance of dharma is as pertinent today as it was in ancient times.