Kena Upanisad: With the commentary of Sankaracarya

The Kena Upanishad, one of the most important Upanishads in Hindu philosophy, is a short but profound text that explores the nature of ultimate reality and the nature of the self. It is part of the Sama Veda, and its primary focus is on the nature of Brahman, the ultimate reality, and how it can be realized.

The commentary by Shankaracharya on the Kena Upanishad is one of the most significant philosophical works that offers deep insight into the meaning and interpretation of the text. Shankaracharya, the great Advaita Vedanta philosopher, elucidates the meaning of the Upanishad from the perspective of non-dualism (Advaita), emphasizing the oneness of the individual soul (Atman) and the supreme consciousness (Brahman).

Overview of the Kena Upanishad:

The text consists of four chapters, with the central theme being an exploration of the nature of Brahman and how it can be apprehended by the human mind. Here are the key aspects discussed in the Upanishad:

1. First Chapter:

   • The first chapter opens with a discussion of the power behind all the senses and faculties of the body. It states that although the senses (such as sight, hearing, and speech) perform their functions, they are governed by a higher unseen power. This power is none other than Brahman. The question posed is: Who is it that gives the faculties their ability to function?
   • The chapter encourages contemplation on the "Unknown" reality behind all perceptions.

2. Second Chapter:

   • The second chapter delves into the nature of the mind and intellect. It addresses the question of what causes the mind to think, and how this thinking is ultimately not independent but governed by a higher, unseen force (again referring to Brahman).
   • The Upanishad emphasizes that the senses and intellect, despite their powers, are ultimately limited and cannot grasp the full essence of Brahman.

3. Third Chapter:

   • The third chapter explores the experience of ultimate knowledge and realization of Brahman. It reflects on the paradox that Brahman can neither be seen nor touched but can only be realized through deep meditation and insight.
   • This chapter speaks of the difficulty in comprehending the true nature of Brahman, yet it asserts that true knowledge is beyond the intellect and perception.

4. Fourth Chapter:

   • The final chapter of the Kena Upanishad speaks of the state of realization, where the seeker attains a state of unity with Brahman. It asserts that knowledge of the self and the realization of Brahman transcend dualities and distinctions.

Shankaracharya's Commentary:

Shankaracharya's commentary on the Kena Upanishad expounds upon the key teachings of the text from the perspective of Advaita Vedanta (Non-dualism). He interprets the Upanishadic teachings as a discourse on the non-difference between the individual self (Atman) and the supreme consciousness (Brahman). Here are a few central themes from his commentary:

1. The Role of Brahman:

   • Shankaracharya explains that Brahman is the ultimate cause behind all creation, perception, and action. The Upanishad's question "Who is it that directs the mind?" reveals that Brahman, which is beyond the reach of the senses, is the silent force behind the functioning of the world.

2. The Inaccessibility of Brahman:

   • According to Shankaracharya, Brahman is beyond sensory perception and cannot be grasped by the intellect. However, it can be realized through direct experiential knowledge, which transcends the limitations of the mind and senses.

3. Atman-Brahman Identity:

   • A key point in Shankaracharya’s commentary is his explanation of the essential identity of Atman (the individual soul) and Brahman (the supreme reality). He clarifies that the apparent distinction between the individual and the universe is an illusion (Maya). In ultimate reality, Atman and Brahman are non-different.

4. Self-Realization:

   • The highest goal, according to Shankaracharya, is to recognize that one’s true self (Atman) is indeed Brahman. This realization comes from the removal of ignorance (Avidya) and the dissolution of the ego, which falsely separates the individual from the whole.

5. The Role of the Guru:

   • Shankaracharya emphasizes the importance of the Guru (spiritual teacher) in guiding the seeker to the ultimate realization of Brahman. The teacher helps remove ignorance and directs the disciple to the path of knowledge.