Muktika Upanishad : Shri Ram teachings to Hanuman ji
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ऐतरेयो चान्दोग्यो बृहदारण्यकः ।
In the Muktika Upanishad, a dialogue between Shri Ram and Hanuman ji is presented, where Shri Ram imparts profound teachings about the path to moksh, or spiritual liberation. This Upanishad provides valuable insights into sadhana (spiritual practice) and lists essential texts for a spiritual seeker. Here, we'll explore the sadhana that Shri Ram recommended to Hanuman ji, the ten sacred books for liberation, and a brief overview of the Mandukya Upanishad, which is one of these key texts.
Shri Rama ji Teachings for Hanuman ji
In the Muktika Upanishad, Shri Ram instructs Hanuman ji to embrace a spiritual path that focuses on understanding the self and attaining liberation from the cycle of samsara (birth, death, and rebirth). The sadhana (spiritual practice) recommended by Shri Ram ji encompasses several key components:
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Jnana Yoga (Path of Knowledge): Shri Ram encourages Hanuman ji to pursue knowledge and wisdom, leading to the realization of the true self. This involves deep contemplation and understanding of the nature of the soul (Atman) and its connection to the ultimate reality (Brahman).
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Bhakti Yoga (Path of Devotion): Given Hanuman's devotion to Ram bhagwan , Bhakti Yoga becomes an essential aspect of his sadhana. Ram bhagwan acknowledges the power of devotion to dissolve the ego and foster a deep connection with the divine.
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Karma Yoga (Path of Action): Ram bhagwan also implies the importance of selfless action, suggesting that performing one's duties without attachment can lead to spiritual growth and liberation.
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Meditation and Reflection: Ram bhagwan. instructs Hanuman ji to meditate and reflect on the teachings to internalize the wisdom and reach a state of inner peace and detachment from worldly desires.
The Ten Sacred Books for Liberation
Ram bhagwan advises Hanuman ji to read and study ten significant texts to attain liberation. These texts encompass a broad spectrum of Hindu philosophy and spirituality, providing guidance on various aspects of the journey to moksha. The ten books mentioned by Rama are as follows:
- Isa Upanishad: Focuses on the unity of the Atman and Brahman, emphasizing renunciation and the rejection of material attachment.
- Kena Upanishad: Explores the nature of Brahman and the source of all knowledge, emphasizing inquiry and understanding.
- Katha Upanishad: A story about a young seeker, Nachiketa, who gains knowledge of the self and the afterlife from Yama, the god of death.
- Prashna Upanishad: Presents a series of questions and answers related to the nature of the universe, the origin of beings, and the significance of meditation.
- Mundaka Upanishad: Distinguishes between higher and lower knowledge and emphasizes the importance of realizing Brahman for liberation.
- Mandukya Upanishad: Discusses the nature of Aum and describes the four states of consciousness, culminating in the ultimate state of Turiya.
- Taittiriya Upanishad: Explores the layers of human existence, from the physical body to the highest spiritual reality.
- Aitareya Upanishad: Focuses on the creation of the universe and the nature of the Atman.
- Chandogya Upanishad: Contains various teachings on meditation, the nature of reality, and the concept of unity.
- Brihadaranyaka Upanishad: One of the largest Upanishads, it explores the nature of the self, the concept of rebirth, and the journey toward liberation.
Mandukya Upanishad: A Brief Overview
The Mandukya Upanishad is a concise but profound text that explores the nature of the sacred syllable Aum (Om) and describes the four states of consciousness. It is one of the foundational texts for understanding the non-dualistic (Advaita) approach to spirituality.
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The Four States of Consciousness: The Mandukya Upanishad describes waking, dreaming, deep sleep, and the ultimate state of Turiya, which transcends the other three states. Turiya is the realization of the self as one with Brahman, representing the pinnacle of spiritual consciousness.
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The Significance of Aum: The Upanishad reveals the significance of Aum as a symbol of the ultimate reality and the essence of Brahman. It encapsulates the journey from the outermost state (waking) to the innermost state (Turiya), leading to liberation.
Conclusion
In the Muktika Upanishad, Ram Bhagwan teachings to Hanuman ji offer a comprehensive approach to spiritual practice and liberation. By emphasizing the importance of knowledge, devotion, meditation, and selfless action, Rama guides Hanuman toward the ultimate goal of moksha. The ten sacred books serve as a roadmap for spiritual seekers, providing the knowledge and wisdom needed to navigate the journey toward liberation. Understanding and reflecting on these teachings can inspire spiritual growth and lead to profound transformation.