The call of the Upanishads
74
The call of the Upanishads
Rohit Mehta’s approach to the Upanishads in this 1984 text is commendably direct. He successfully demystifies complex Vedantic concepts, particularly the intricate relationship between the individual self and the absolute reality. The strength of the work lies in its consistent effort to draw parallels with modern psychological and philosophical frameworks, making the ancient wisdom feel less alien. However, this very accessibility occasionally leads to oversimplification. For instance, the explanation of Maya, while clear, might gloss over some of the subtler epistemological challenges inherent in the concept. A particularly insightful section explores the concept of *neti neti* ('not this, not this') as a path to understanding Brahman, illustrating the limitations of language in describing the Absolute. Despite its occasional brevity on certain points, the book offers a solid foundation for engaging with these seminal texts.
📝 Description
74
Rohit Mehta's 1984 book makes the Upanishads accessible to a modern audience.
First published in 1984, The Call of the Upanishads by Rohit Mehta aims to translate the core philosophical inquiries of these ancient Hindu texts for contemporary readers. Mehta structures the book to guide readers through the central dialogues and concepts, deliberately avoiding overly academic language while maintaining the intellectual depth of the original Sanskrit.
The work is suitable for individuals interested in Eastern philosophy, spirituality, and comparative religion, particularly those without prior familiarity with Vedic texts. It functions as a helpful resource for students of philosophy, those seeking spiritual understanding, and anyone wanting to grasp the origins of Hindu thought. Its straightforward presentation benefits newcomers, while its thoughtful analysis provides ongoing interest for those already acquainted with the subject.
Emerging in the mid-1980s, Mehta's book appeared during a time of growing global interest in Eastern spiritual traditions. It joined a wider movement of scholars and seekers looking beyond the Western canon, offering a specific interpretation of the Upanishads. These texts have influenced Western thinkers, including Arthur Schopenhauer and Ralph Waldo Emerson, who engaged with Indian philosophy during the Romantic and Transcendentalist periods.
The Upanishads are a foundational body of Sanskrit literature within Hinduism, exploring metaphysical concepts that have long captivated thinkers across traditions. They represent a shift within Vedic thought, moving from ritualistic concerns to philosophical contemplation of ultimate reality. Their ideas about the nature of consciousness, the self, and the universe have resonated with various esoteric and philosophical movements, including Transcendentalism and certain strands of Western mysticism, due to their focus on inner knowledge and the unity of existence.
💡 Why Read This Book?
• Gain a foundational understanding of Brahman and Atman, the core metaphysical tenets of the Upanishads, which are crucial for comprehending Hindu philosophy. • Explore the concept of Maya, the principle of cosmic illusion, and its implications for perceiving reality, as discussed in sections on illusion. • Grasp the path to Moksha, or liberation, through practices like meditation and self-inquiry, as detailed in the discussions on spiritual freedom.
⭐ Reader Reviews
Honest opinions from readers who have explored this book.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Upanishads and why are they significant in Hinduism?
The Upanishads are a collection of Sanskrit texts forming the theoretical basis of Hinduism. They represent the culmination of Vedic thought and introduce key philosophical concepts like Brahman, Atman, and the nature of reality, shaping subsequent Indian religious and philosophical traditions.
Who was Rohit Mehta and what is his contribution in 'The Call of the Upanishads'?
Rohit Mehta, an Indian philosopher and writer, authored 'The Call of the Upanishads' in 1984. His contribution lies in making the complex philosophical and spiritual ideas of the Upanishads accessible to a wider, modern audience through clear explanations and relevant interpretations.
What is the concept of Brahman as explained in this book?
Brahman, as presented in 'The Call of the Upanishads,' is the ultimate, unchanging reality that underlies all existence. It is the supreme cosmic spirit, the source and sustainer of the universe, often described as pure consciousness and bliss.
How does the book explain the relationship between Atman and Brahman?
The book elucidates the central Upanishadic tenet that Atman (the individual soul or self) is identical to Brahman (the absolute reality). This concept, often expressed as 'Tat Tvam Asi' (Thou Art That), signifies the non-dualistic nature of existence.
What does the Upanishadic concept of Maya refer to?
Maya is explained as the cosmic illusion or the veil of ignorance that obscures the true nature of reality (Brahman). It is the phenomenal world of multiplicity that deludes individuals into perceiving separation and impermanence.
When was 'The Call of the Upanishads' first published?
Rohit Mehta's 'The Call of the Upanishads' was first published in 1984, a period when interest in Eastern philosophical traditions was growing in the West.
🔮 Key Themes & Symbolism
The Identity of Atman and Brahman
This central theme explores the profound equation of the individual self (Atman) with the universal, absolute reality (Brahman). The work emphasizes that the perceived separation between the individual consciousness and the cosmic consciousness is an illusion. Through various dialogues and parables, Mehta illustrates how realizing this unity is the key to spiritual liberation, moving beyond ego-bound existence to an understanding of non-duality.
The Nature of Maya
The book tackles the concept of Maya, often translated as illusion, which posits that the material world and its perceived diversity are not the ultimate reality. Mehta explains Maya not as a negation of existence, but as a power that conceals the singular truth of Brahman. Understanding Maya is crucial for transcending the limitations of ordinary perception and the cycle of suffering caused by attachment to the ephemeral.
The Path to Moksha
Moksha, or liberation from the cycle of birth and death (samsara), is presented as the ultimate goal. The work details various paths and practices advocated in the Upanishads to achieve this state, including jnana yoga (the yoga of knowledge), meditation, ethical conduct, and the dissolution of ego. It highlights that Moksha is not an afterlife event but a realization attainable in this life.
The Significance of Om
The sacred syllable Om (Aum) is explored as a potent symbol representing the entirety of existence and consciousness. The book interprets Om as the sound of creation, encompassing the past, present, and future, and the three states of consciousness (waking, dreaming, deep sleep). Meditating on Om is presented as a powerful technique to connect with the underlying reality of Brahman.
💬 Memorable Quotes
Direct passages from the work, attributed to the author.
“The Self is the only reality.”
— This concise statement captures the Upanishadic assertion that beyond the changing phenomena of the external world and the transient states of the mind, there exists an eternal, unchanging core—the Atman—which is the true essence of all beings and identical to the ultimate reality, Brahman.
“To know Brahman is to cease to be separate.”
— This interpretation captures the essence of non-dual realization. It implies that the pursuit of spiritual knowledge leads to the dissolution of the false sense of individuality and isolation, revealing an inherent interconnectedness with the universal consciousness.
“Liberation comes from understanding, not from action alone.”
— This interpretation emphasizes the intellectual and experiential component of Moksha. While actions are part of the spiritual path, the ultimate freedom arises from a useful insights and realization of one's true nature, rather than mere ritualistic performance.
💡 Key Ideas
Editorial paraphrase of the work's core concepts — not direct quotes.
The world we perceive is a projection, not a substance.
This paraphrase highlights the Upanishadic view of Maya, suggesting that the empirical world, with its apparent solidity and multiplicity, is a manifestation or appearance rather than an independent, fundamental reality. It encourages looking beyond the surface to the underlying unity.
Meditation is the key to unlocking the inner Self.
This paraphrase points to the practical aspect of Upanishadic philosophy, emphasizing that through disciplined mental practices like meditation, one can quiet the external distractions and internal chatter to directly experience the Atman, the true Self.
🌙 Esoteric Significance
Tradition
This work engages deeply with the Vedanta tradition, a major school of Hindu philosophy rooted in the Upanishads. Within the broader spectrum of esoteric thought, Vedanta, particularly Advaita Vedanta, shares common ground with certain mystical traditions that emphasize non-duality, the illusory nature of the material world, and the ultimate unity of consciousness. It departs from purely ritualistic or devotional paths by focusing on philosophical inquiry and direct realization of the Absolute.
Symbolism
Key symbols explored include 'Om' (Aum), representing the primordial sound and the totality of existence, encompassing creation, preservation, and dissolution. The concept of 'Brahman' itself functions as a supreme symbol for the unmanifest, formless, and infinite ultimate reality. The 'Atman' symbolizes the divine spark within the individual, ultimately identical to Brahman, often depicted through allegorical journeys or the quest for inner knowledge.
Modern Relevance
Contemporary thinkers and practitioners in fields like transpersonal psychology, comparative philosophy, and mindfulness-based practices often draw upon Upanishadic concepts. The emphasis on consciousness, the nature of reality, and the pursuit of inner peace through self-inquiry appeals to modern therapeutic and self-development approaches, making the wisdom of the Upanishads, as presented by Mehta, relevant to current explorations of the human mind and spirit.
👥 Who Should Read This Book
• Individuals new to Eastern philosophy seeking a clear introduction to the foundational concepts of Vedanta and Hindu metaphysics. • Students of comparative religion or philosophy interested in understanding the intellectual underpinnings of major world traditions. • Spiritual seekers exploring non-dualistic philosophies and contemplative practices aimed at realizing ultimate reality.
📜 Historical Context
The Call of the Upanishads, published in 1984, arrived during a period of significant global interest in Eastern spiritual traditions, a trend amplified by the counterculture movements of the preceding decades. Western intellectuals and spiritual seekers were increasingly turning to texts like the Upanishads, which had already profoundly influenced figures such as Arthur Schopenhauer and Ralph Waldo Emerson in the 19th century. Mehta's work aimed to bridge the gap between these ancient Sanskrit philosophical dialogues and a modern, often secularized, audience. It emerged in a landscape where Theosophy and various forms of Yoga were already popular, offering a more direct philosophical exploration of Vedanta. While not directly engaging with specific academic debates of the era, Mehta's accessible prose positioned the Upanishads as relevant sources for contemporary existential and metaphysical questions, distinct from the more ritualistic interpretations that sometimes dominated discourse.
📔 Journal Prompts
The concept of Brahman as the sole reality: How does this challenge your perception of the material world?
The identity of Atman and Brahman: Explore the implications of this non-dualistic principle for your sense of self.
Maya as cosmic illusion: Reflect on instances where perceived reality might be obscuring a deeper truth.
The path to Moksha: Consider what 'liberation' means in the context of your own life and aspirations.
The role of Om in Upanishadic thought: What does this sacred syllable symbolize for you?
🗂️ Glossary
Brahman
The ultimate, unchanging reality, the supreme cosmic spirit that is the source, substance, and essence of all existence. It is considered formless, infinite, and eternal.
Atman
The individual soul or self. In Upanishadic philosophy, particularly Advaita Vedanta, the Atman is ultimately identical to Brahman, representing the true, eternal essence of a being.
Maya
A Sanskrit term often translated as illusion, delusion, or cosmic magic. It refers to the power that conceals the true nature of reality (Brahman) and projects the phenomenal world of multiplicity and change.
Moksha
Liberation or release from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara). It is the ultimate spiritual goal in Hinduism, characterized by the realization of one's true nature and union with the Absolute.
Om (Aum)
A sacred syllable and mantra in Hinduism, considered the sound of the universe. It symbolizes the totality of existence, consciousness, and the three states of waking, dreaming, and deep sleep.
Neti Neti
A Sanskrit phrase meaning 'not this, not this'. It is a method of negation used in Upanishadic inquiry to arrive at an understanding of Brahman by progressively eliminating all that is finite, conditioned, and empirical.
Jnana Yoga
The yoga or path of knowledge. It involves the pursuit of wisdom and self-realization through study, reflection, and direct experience of the truth about the Self and Reality.
🔮 Readers Also Liked
Browse all →
More by Rohit Mehta
All books →
More Free Occult Philosophy Books
View all →
