Aksara Brahma Yoga

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Aksara Brahma Yog
‌Om, the sacred symbol described in Akshara Bharahm Yog
Information
Religion	Hinduism
Author	Traditionally attributed to Vyasa
Language	Sanskrit
Verses	28

The Akshara Bhrahma Yog (Sanskrit: अक्षर ब्रह्म योग, romanized: Akŭṣhar Bŭrhŭm Yōg) is the eighth of the eighteen chapters of the Bhagavad Gita. The chapter has a total of 28 shlokas. The chapter is the 30th chapter of Bhishma Parva, the sixth episode of the Mahabharata.

Etymology

Akshara, refers to the imperishable or eternal, and Brahma Yoga signifies the yoga of an ultimate reality or the divine. In this chapter, Lord Krishna explains to Arjuna the significance of understanding and realizing the eternal essence that transcends the material world. The term's etymology is rooted in the concepts of the Gita itself, emphasizing the pursuit of spiritual knowledge and the connection between the individual soul (jivatma) and the ultimate reality (paramatma).

Overview

1-5: Inquiry about the nature of ultimate reality, the process of departing from the mortal world, and the importance of thoughts at the time of death.

6-12: Attaining God in the final moments, divine manifestations, meditation on formless aspect, cycle of creation, and significance of devotion.

13-22: Paths after death, cycle of creation and dissolution, eternal nature of God, influence of Gunas, role of knowledge, and attaining God through devotion.

23-28: Path of devotion, meditation on God, significance of "Om," dedicating actions to God, importance of devotion, knowledge, and detachment.

Content

In this chapter, Krishna elaborates on various concepts, including the nature of duty (dharma) and the imperishable nature of the soul (atman). He advises Arjuna to fulfill his warrior duty without attachment to the results, emphasizing the importance of selfless action (karma yoga). Krishna explains that individuals have control only over their actions, not over the results, and encourages Arjuna to act in accordance with his dharma.

Krishna introduces the idea of the eternal soul, asserting that it transcends birth and death. He highlights the distinction between the physical body and the true self, which is immortal and unaffected (Akshara) by external circumstances. This understanding is the basis of spiritual discipline and renunciation (sannyasa).

The Gita also outlines different paths to spiritual realization, encompassing karma yoga (path of selfless action), bhakti yoga (path of devotion), and jnana yoga (path of knowledge). Krishna emphasizes that all paths can lead to the ultimate truth, and individuals should choose the one that resonates with their nature and inclinations.

Krishna explains that devotion to a higher power is a path of surrender and love. He reveals his divine universal form to Arjuna, demonstrating his omnipresence and the interconnectedness of all beings. This revelation underscores Krishna's role as the Supreme Being and the essence of all existence.

Arjuna's doubts gradually subside as he comprehends the intricate tapestry of life, and he resolves to fulfill his duty as a warrior. With newfound clarity, he agrees to fight, motivated by his commitment to dharma and his trust in Krishna's teachings.

The Bhagavad Gita serves as a timeless guide for ethical living, self-realization, and spiritual growth. It explores the complexities of human nature, the significance of duty, and the pursuit of a higher purpose. Krishna's guidance to Arjuna illustrates the importance of aligning one's actions with inner values while maintaining a detached perspective on outcomes.

In essence, the Akshara Bharham Yog encapsulates profound philosophical insights, offering a roadmap for leading a balanced life amidst challenges and dilemmas. The dialogue between Krishna and Arjuna underscores the significance of seeking wisdom, making conscious choices, and embracing one's duty while remaining rooted in a deeper understanding of the self and the universe.

Themes

• The Eternal and Imperishable Nature of the Soul (Akshara): In this chapter, Lord Krishna teaches Arjuna about the eternal and indestructible nature of the soul (Atman). The term Akshara refers to that which is imperishable. The Gita emphasizes that the soul is beyond the physical body and mind, and it doesn't undergo birth and death. This understanding helps Arjuna overcome his fear of mortality.
• The Process of Transition at the Time of Death: Lord Krishna describes the process of departing from the physical body during death. He explains that the state of mind and consciousness at the time of death determines the soul's journey to the next life. By maintaining a meditative and devoted state of mind, individuals can ensure a positive transition and a better future existence.
• The Importance of Devotion and Surrender to God: The chapter underscores the significance of unwavering devotion (bhakti) and surrender to the divine. Krishna explains that by focusing one's thoughts on the Supreme Being and cultivating a deep connection through love and devotion, individuals can attain liberation (moksha) and break the cycle of birth and death.
• The Significance of the Om Sound in Spiritual Practice: Om (or Aum) is a sacred sound often considered to be the primordial vibration of the universe. It symbolizes the ultimate reality or Brahman. In the context of the Gita, Krishna mentions the syllable Om as a representation of the Divine. Chanting or meditating on "Om" can help align one's consciousness with the cosmic forces and connect with the higher spiritual dimensions.

In summary, Akshara Brahma Yoga teaches about the eternal nature of the soul, the process of transitioning at death, the importance of devotion and surrender, and the significance of Om in spiritual practice. These teachings guide individuals towards self-realization, spiritual growth, and liberation from the cycle of life and death.

Significance

Sacred symbol Om

The Akshara Brahma Yoga, found in the Bhagavad Gita, holds great significance. It emphasizes the eternal and indestructible nature of the soul (Atman) using the syllable Om as a representation of the ultimate reality. Lord Krishna explains the concept of oneness between the individual soul and the universal consciousness. This chapter underscores the importance of spiritual discipline, devotion, and meditation as means to realize this unity. Through the metaphor of a tree, Krishna illustrates the roots as the divine, the trunk as the cosmic order, and the leaves as the individual souls. By understanding the imperishable nature of the soul and aligning oneself with the universal, one can attain liberation (Moksha). Akshara Brahma Yoga teaches the path to self-realization, emphasizing the connection between individual and divine, and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment.

Legacy

 ओमित्येकाक्षरं ब्रह्म व्याहरन्मामनुस्मरन् ।
य: प्रयाति त्यजन्देहं स याति परमां गतिम् ॥

— Lord Krishna, Bhagvad Gita, 8.13

English translation of above Shloka is as following:

The one who utters the single syllable 'Om,' remembering Me, and departs abandoning the body, that person attains the supreme goal.

Deendayal Upadhyay, the creator of Integral Humanism ideology

Akshara Brahma Yoga, found in the Bhagavad Gita, is a profound discourse by Lord Krishna to Arjuna, delving into the concept of the eternal, unchanging reality. This chapter emphasizes the significance of the syllable "Om" as a representation of the ultimate reality, connecting everything in creation.

"Om" symbolizes the supreme consciousness, serving as a bridge between the individual and the divine. Lord Krishna explains that he is the essence of Om, illustrating the oneness between him and the universe. This oneness underlines the idea that everything emanates from the same divine source, promoting unity and interconnectedness.

Deendayal Upadhyay, a philosopher and politician, drew inspiration from such teachings, emphasizing the integration of spiritual wisdom and socio-economic progress. His philosophy, known as "Integral Humanism," stressed the importance of the individual, society, and the divine working in harmony. This mirrors the Bhagavad Gita's message of balance between material and spiritual aspects of life.

Integral Humanism, of Deendayal Upadhyaya, was an influential ideological foundation for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). While the Bhagavad Gita, emphasizes duty, righteousness, and selflessness, its influence on the BJP's Integral Humanism can be seen in the party's focus on cultural and ethical values, decentralization, and the harmonious development of individuals and society. The BJP has drawn inspiration from both Integral Humanism and the Bhagavad Gita to shape its approach to governance and policy-making.

The Legacy of Akshara Brahma Yoga endures as a reminder of the timeless wisdom imparted by Lord Krishna. Its teachings, embodied by figures like Deendayal Upadhyay, continue to influence thought leaders and spiritual seekers, inspiring a holistic approach to life. The essence of "Om" and the unity expressed in the Gita remain a guiding light, promoting understanding, compassion, and interconnectedness in a world that often seeks division.

The sacred symbol Om

See also: Om

Sacred symbol Om, discussed in Akshara Brahma Yog

The Om symbol holds profound significance in Akshara Brahma Yoga. Also known as Aum, it's a sacred syllable representing the ultimate reality, encompassing creation, preservation, and dissolution. The three phonetic components of Aum — "A," "U," and "M" — symbolize these phases of existence.

In Akshara Brahma Yoga, Aum signifies the unchanging, eternal essence amidst the ever-changing world. "A" resonates with the waking state, symbolizing creation and the beginning. "U" corresponds to the dream state, representing preservation and continuity. "M" signifies the state of deep sleep and dissolution, leading to rebirth.

The history of Aum dates back to ancient Indian texts, particularly the Upanishads. Its roots are found in the Vedic scriptures, where it's considered the primordial sound that birthed the universe. Aum is closely linked with the concept of Shabada Brahman, the cosmic sound underlying all creation. The Mandukya Upanishad extensively discusses Aum's metaphysical significance and its connection to different states of consciousness.

Over time, Aum became a fundamental element of Hindu philosophy, meditation, and spiritual practices. It's chanted at the beginning and end of prayers, mantras, and meditation sessions. The symbol itself visually represents the essence of Aum — the curve at the bottom symbolizes the waking state, the curve at the top represents the dream state, and the half curve in the middle embodies the state of deep sleep and transcendence.

In Akshara Brahma Yoga, the Om symbol serves as a potent reminder of the interconnectedness of all aspects of existence and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. Its resonance goes beyond its phonetic components, reaching into the realm of the absolute, and guiding practitioners toward understanding the true nature of reality.

Oneness of Lord Krishna

See also: Krishna

 यं यं वापि स्मरन्भावं त्यजत्यन्ते कलेवरम् ।
तं तमेवैति कौन्तेय सदा तद्भावभावित: ॥
तस्मात्सर्वेषु कालेषु मामनुस्मर युध्य च
मय्यर्पितमनोबुद्धिर्मामेवैष्यस्यसंशयम् ॥
अभ्यासयोगयुक्तेन चेतसा नान्यगामिना ।
परमं पुरुषं दिव्यं याति पार्थानुचिन्तयन् ॥
कविं पुराणमनुशासितार
मणोरणीयांसमनुस्मरेद्य: ।
सर्वस्य धातारमचिन्त्यरूप
मादित्यवर्णं तमस: परस्तात् ॥
प्रयाणकाले मनसाचलेन
भक्त्या युक्तो योगबलेन चैव ।
भ्रुवोर्मध्ये प्राणमावेश्य सम्यक्
स तं परं पुरुषमुपैति दिव्यम् ॥

— Lord Krishna, Bhagvad Gita, 8.6–8.10

English translation of following shloka is as following:

Whatever state of being one remembers when he quits the body, that state he will attain without fail, O son of Kunti! because of his constant thought of that state. Therefore, at all times remember Me and fight. With mind and intellect fixed on Me, you will surely come to Me. He who meditates on the Omniscient, Ancient, Controller, Subtle, and Effulgent, the Regulator of all, and the Deity of the sun, with a steady and unwavering mind at the time of death, by the power of yoga united with devotion, holding the breath steady between the eyebrows, he attains the Supreme Divine Person."

— Lord Krishna, Bhagvad Gita, 8.6–8.10

File:Lord Krishna 20210904.jpg

Lord Krishna, the supreme god

Akshara Brahma Yoga, emphasizes the oneness of Lord Krishna as the eternal, imperishable reality that transcends the material and spiritual realms. In this discourse, Lord Krishna reveals himself as the Akshara Brahma, the unchanging and indestructible supreme consciousness that resides within all beings. He describes how everything in the universe, both perishable and imperishable, emanates from this ultimate reality.

Krishna illustrates that he is the essence of all creation, the source from which all things originate, and the destination to which all things return. He is the cosmic intelligence that sustains the universe, and the eternal thread that connects all living beings. By realizing this oneness with the Akshara Brahma, individuals can attain liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Krishna's teachings in Akshara Brahma Yoga emphasize the importance of devotion, selfless action, and detachment as means to attain spiritual realization. He encourages Arjuna, his disciple, to dedicate all actions to the divine and cultivate unwavering faith. By understanding that everything exists within the Akshara Brahma and is a manifestation of the divine, one can overcome the illusion of duality and experience the ultimate unity.

In essence, Akshara Brahma Yoga underscores the profound interconnectedness of all existence and emphasizes that realizing the eternal oneness of Lord Krishna leads to spiritual enlightenment and liberation from the cycle of suffering. It is a call to recognize the divine presence within oneself and all beings, fostering a deep sense of unity and harmony in the pursuit of self-realization.

See also

• Bhagvad Gita
• Krishna
• Arjuna