The Smokeless Fire

Isha, Kena, Katha UpanishadsThe outside world grabs our attention with its many-hued and varied attractions. Looking out at it, it is difficult to believe that there could be a world inside, too. That is why most people spend their whole lives busy in the outer world. It is a rare few who look inside and come to the conclusion that the material world is not the whole story at all. In fact, what lies underneath is so blissful that they do not like to come out again! The Upanishads are the guiding lights for that hidden inner world, and Isha, Kena and Katha Upanishads stand at their forefront. In an endearing manner, these Upanishads hold our hands and take us gently into the Unknown - that which is beyond the visible, beyond the perceived, beyond action, beyond even Dharma! With a modicum of logic and lots of enlightened perception, the seers explain to us why this inner world indeed exists and why it is really the only world worth looking for. On the way, they give tips for living in the outer world, too, in a way that will open up the doors to that other world. For this reason, even the first-time seeker can find a world of wisdom tucked away in their verses.But bare knowledge has no meaning till it is converted into something perceptible. Devotion is the elixir that brings knowledge to life. True seers break out into ecstasy every now and then as they perceive the Divine. Their devotion will find an inner chord in you that will resonate as you chant the verses.Phrases from these Upanishads are often quoted in different worldly settings, but they mostly have an other-worldly meaning. To find out more, delve into the beauty of these Upanishads and come out refreshed and purified.