Truth, Light, Bliss

Simple words. Simple sentences. Simple structure. Three lines of Sanskrit, which form one of India's most famous aphorisms, is deemed to be a Mahavakya (महावाक्य) or Great Pronouncement.

In these three terse lines, a world of wisdom awaits. They are, at once, scientific and philosophical in purport. So, from cosmologists to seekers, all can contemplate the meaning and gain knowledge from this text. Contained within the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad, which is a large collection of teachings; the words are to be chanted in the Vedic method, using the correct notes (svara-s) and pronunciation. Each part is considered to be a Mantra, therefore, repeating the lines in the mind (Japa) and having cognisance of their meaning, is a beneficial meditation practice.

In Swami Krishnananda's commentary on this Upanishad he writes about this section (1:3:28): "Now, a very important chant…..the Pavamana Abhyaroha…all-purifying… 'elevated holy chant' ".

~ asato maa sadgamaya

The meaning of Sat (सत्) is Truth and Asat is Not Truth. Many will have come across this word in the term Satsang, where people (Sanga) gather to explore and experience Truth (Sat). Sanga is a gathering of beings, seen and unseen, who come together to explore and experience the reality of true being. In this small essay and with your presence we are, in some simple way, gathering to consider Sat.

When we say 'Lead me', it indicates that we are moving in the direction of Truth in our lives. Becoming more positive in our actions, words, and thoughts. In yogic and Buddhist terms, we create positive karma through our body, speech, and mind.

~ tamaso maa jyotirgamaya

Jyotis (ज्योतिस्) is Light and Tamas (तमस्) is Darkness. Jyotisa (ज्योतिष) is the science of Vedic Astrology. In the Vedic view, the sun of our solar system is looked upon as a visible representation of the Eternal Light and that this is also within us at the heart centre. Atma (आत्मा) connected to the Paramatma (परमात्मा).

So, with this second line we continue our momentum, bringing us closer to the highest ideals and goals of the yogic path (Sadhana) i.e. Samadhi.

~ mrityor maa amritamgamaya

Amrita (अमृत) is the nectar of immortality, the elixir. At an everyday level, for us, it could be seen as the wish for a healthy mind and body leading to longevity. Mrtyu (मृत्यु) is death, decay. Therefore, Amrita is No Death.

Of course we know that the human form will end but at the spiritual level this line asserts again, the link to the Paramatma.