108 Upanishads
Quick Reference Guide
Complete List & Study Guide
A comprehensive reference to all 108 Upanishads, classified by Veda, with detailed
coverage of the 13 major Upanishads, key teachings, and practical study guidelines.
2025 • For Personal Study & Distribution
Table of Contents
1. Introduction to the Upanishads
What Are the Upanishads? ........................... 3
The 108 Upanishads Overview ........................ 3
Classification by Veda ............................. 3
2. The 13 Major Upanishads
Detailed Breakdown ................................. 4
Key Teachings & Themes ............................ 4
3. Complete List of 108 Upanishads
Rig Veda Upanishads ............................... 6
Yajur Veda Upanishads ............................. 7
Sama Veda Upanishads .............................. 8
Atharva Veda Upanishads ........................... 9
4. Study Recommendations
Beginner Path .................................... 10
Intermediate Path ................................. 10
Advanced Path .................................... 10
5. Daily Practice Guidelines
Meditation Techniques ............................. 11
Japa Practice .................................... 11
6. Quick Reference by Theme
Brahman .......................................... 12
Atman ............................................. 12
Maya .............................................. 12
Moksha ............................................ 12
7. Glossary of Sanskrit Terms
A-D ............................................... 13
E-M ............................................... 13
N-Z ............................................... 14
8. Resources for Further Study
Recommended Books ................................ 15
Online Resources .................................. 15
1. Introduction to the Upanishads
What Are the Upanishads?
The Upanishads (Sanskrit: उपनिषद्, meaning "sitting near" or "esoteric teaching")
form the philosophical foundation of [Vedic philosophy](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vedic_philosophy)
and [Hinduism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism). Composed between 800-200 BCE, these texts
represent the culmination of [Vedic thought](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vedas) and the beginning
of [Advaita Vedanta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Advaita_Vedanta).
There are traditionally considered to be 108 Upanishads, though only 13 are widely
studied and commented upon by major teachers. The Upanishads explore the fundamental questions:
"What is reality?" "What is consciousness?" "What is the nature of the self?" and "What is liberation?"
The 108 Upanishads Overview
The 108 Upanishads are classified based on the four [Vedas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vedas),
the oldest sacred texts of India:
- Rig Veda (10 Upanishads) - Knowledge of hymns and mantras
- Yajur Veda (32 Upanishads) - Knowledge of sacrificial rites
- Sama Veda (16 Upanishads) - Knowledge of musical chants
- Atharva Veda (50 Upanishads) - Knowledge of daily life and magic
Classification by Veda
While the Upanishads are attributed to different Vedas, they were composed as independent
philosophical treatises. The classification helps organize the vast body of work and shows
the development of thought across different schools and traditions.
2. The 13 Major Upanishads
Detailed Breakdown
Of the 108 Upanishads, 13 are considered "major" or "principal" based on their depth,
authenticity, and the quality of their teachings. These are the texts traditionally studied
in [Advaita Vedanta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Advaita_Vedanta) and other schools.
ISA (Ishavasya) Upanishad - From Shukla Yajur Veda
Core Teaching: The fundamental identity of the individual self (Atman) with
the universal consciousness (Brahman). Famous verse: "All this is to be covered by the Lord."
Key Concepts: Enness in action, detachment from results, universal presence of Brahman.
KATHA (Katha) Upanishad - From Krishna Yajur Veda
Core Teaching: The story of young Nachiketa learning about death and immortality
from Lord Yama. Explores the relationship between the mortal and immortal.
Key Concepts: The three states of consciousness (waking, dreaming, deep sleep),
the fourth state (Turiya), transcendence of death through self-knowledge.
KENA (Kena) Upanishad - From Sama Veda
Core Teaching: "By what does the mind perceive? By what does the ear hear?"
Explores the mysterious principle behind all experience.
Key Concepts: The unknown knower, the subtle cause behind all manifestations,
the necessity of intuitive understanding beyond intellectual knowledge.
PRASNA (Prasna) Upanishad - From Atharva Veda
Core Teaching: Six questions about the nature of Brahman, creation, and the self.
Grouped under the title "Questions."
Key Concepts: The power behind cosmic creation, the nature of Prana (life force),
the relationship between the individual and cosmic consciousness.
MUNDaka (Mundaka) Upanishad - From Atharva Veda
Core Teaching: "The higher knowledge (Para Vidya) that leads to liberation,
and the lower knowledge (Apara Vidya) that leads to worldly success."
Key Concepts: The two kinds of knowledge, the Brahman as the eternal foundation,
the dissolving of ignorance through self-inquiry.
MANDUKya (Mandukya) Upanishad - From Atharva Veda
Core Teaching: The four states of consciousness symbolized by A-U-M and the
silence after. "AUM" is the entire universe in one syllable.
Key Concepts: The sacred syllable AUM as the essence of all existence, the
four states (waking, dreaming, deep sleep, and Turiya), the complete identity of Atman and Brahman.
TAITTIRIYA (Taittiriya) Upanishad - From Krishna Yajur Veda
Core Teaching: The layers of human existence: physical body, vital force (Prana),
mind, intellect, and bliss. "From bliss we are born, by bliss we live, and to bliss we return."
Key Concepts: The five sheaths (Pancha Kosha), the nature of Brahman as Sat-Chit-Ananda
(Existence-Consciousness-Bliss), the importance of proper education.
AITAREYA (Aitareya) Upanishad - From Rig Veda
Core Teaching: "In the beginning was Atman alone. Creating the universe from
himself, he multiplied into many."
Key Concepts: The process of cosmic creation through the power of consciousness,
the identification of Atman as the underlying reality, the potential divinity of the individual.
CHHANDOGya (Chhandogya) Upanishad - From Sama Veda
Core Teaching: The "neti neti" (not this, not this) method of self-inquiry,
and the story of Uddalaka teaching his son Shvetaketu about the nature of reality.
Key Concepts: The teaching through negation, the Sat-Chit-Ananda nature of Brahman,
the similarity between the individual consciousness and cosmic consciousness.
BRIHADARANYaka (Brihadaranyaka) Upanishad - From Shukla Yajur Veda
Core Teaching: The largest and most comprehensive Upanishad. The "Great Forest"
teaching on the nature of reality, creation, and the self.
Key Concepts: "Aham Brahmasmi" (I am Brahman), the identity of Atman and Brahman,
the three kinds of food (sattvic, rajasic, tamasic), the mystery of deep sleep state.
SHVETASHVATARA (Shvetashvatara) Upanishad - From Shukla Yajur Veda
Core Teaching: The Upanishadic teaching of a personal God (Ishvara) in addition
to the impersonal Absolute (Brahman).
Key Concepts: The unity of Atman and Brahman, the doctrine of cosmic play (Lila),
the possibility of direct perception of truth, the expression of deep devotional love.
MUNDAka (Mundaka) Upanishad - From Atharva Veda
Core Teaching: "Blow apart the beginning of ignorance with the sword of
self-knowledge." Focuses on the difference between lower and higher knowledge.
Key Concepts: The metaphor of bird and tree (individual soul and Brahman),
the destructive fire of knowledge, liberation as the result of right discrimination.
MAITRI (Maitri) Upanishad - From Shukla Yajur Veda
Core Teaching: The dialogue between King Brihadratha and sage Sanatkumara
on the nature of the self and reality.
Key Concepts: The multiplicity of beings within the one consciousness,
the role of divine grace, the cyclical nature of creation and destruction.
Key Themes Across Major Upanishads
- Atman-Brahman Identity: The core teaching that the individual consciousness
and universal consciousness are one
- Maya: The principle of appearance or illusion that hides true reality
- Moksha: Liberation from ignorance and the cycle of rebirth
- SAT-CHIT-ANANDA: Existence-Consciousness-Bliss as the nature of ultimate reality
- NON-DUALITY: The fundamental oneness of all existence
3. Complete List of 108 Upanishads
Rig Veda Upanishads (10 Upanishads)
1. Aitareya Upanishad
(Major Upanishad)
2. Atma Upanishad
(Attributed to cosmic creation teaching)
3. Kaushitaki (Kausitaki) Upanishad
(Important ritual and knowledge Upanishad)
4. Mudgala Upanishad
(On sacred knowledge and devotion)
5. Nirvana Upanishad
(On ultimate liberation)
6. Rahasya Upanishad
(On secret teachings)
7. Tripura Upanishad
(On the three cities of creation)
8. Sandilya Upanishad
(On devotion and divine love)
9. Saurabhi (Saurabha) Upanishad
(On divine essence)
10. Ekakshara Upanishad
(On the one syllable "AUM")
Yajur Veda Upanishads (32 Upanishads)
11. Brhadaranyaka Upanishad
(Major Upanishad - The Great Forest)
12. Ishavasya (Isa) Upanishad
(Major Upanishad - From Shukla Yajur Veda)
13. Katha Upanishad
(Major Upanishad - From Krishna Yajur Veda)
14. Taittiriya Upanishad
(Major Upanishad - From Krishna Yajur Veda)
15. Svetasvatara Upanishad
(Major Upanishad - From Shukla Yajur Veda)
16. Maitri (Maitrayani) Upanishad
(Major Upanishad - From Shukla Yajur Veda)
17. Dhyana-Bindu Upanishad
(On meditation and point of consciousness)
18. Brahma Upanishad
(On the nature of Brahman)
19. Garbha Upanishad
(On embryonic development and consciousness)
20. Kriyananda (Krishna) Upanishad
(On divine bliss)
21. Niralamba Upanishad
(On the unsupported consciousness)
26. Paramahamsa Upanishad
(On the supreme swan consciousness)
27. Sannyasa Upanishad
(On renunciation)
28. Sarasvati Upanishad
(On the goddess of knowledge)
29. Trishikhi-Brahma Upanishad
(On the threefold knowledge of Brahman)
30. Mandalabrahmana (Mandala Brahmana) Upanishad
(On cosmic realms)
31. Avadhuta Upanishad
(On the liberated consciousness)
32. Yajnavalkya Upanishad
(On sacrificial knowledge)
Sama Veda Upanishads (16 Upanishads)
33. Chhandogya Upanishad
(Major Upanishad - The teaching of Shvetaketu)
34. Kena (Talavakara) Upanishad
(Major Upanishad - By whom? Questions)
35. Arunika (Aranyaka) Upanishad
(On the knowledge of the forest)
36. Ksaurika (Ksaurika) Upanishad
(On razor-sharp discrimination)
37. Yoga-Tattva Upanishad
(On the essence of yoga)
38. Yoga-Cudamany (Yoga Chudamani) Upanishad
(On the crown jewel of yoga)
39. Nirvana Upanishad
(On ultimate liberation)
40. Advaya-Taraka Upanishad
(On non-dual knowledge)
41. Hamsa Upanishad
(On the universal "So-Hum" mantra)
42. Mantrika (Mantrika) Upanishad
(On sacred sounds and mantras)
43. Mandalabrahma (Mandala Brahma) Upanishad
(On the cosmic sphere of Brahma)
44. Dakshinavarti (Dakshinamurti) Upanishad
(On the formless teacher)
45. Sarva-Sara Upanishad
(On the essence of all)
46. Kundalini Upanishad
(On the awakened energy)
47. Sita Upanishad
(On the divine feminine)
48. Muktika Upanishad
(On the Upanishads as liberating knowledge)
Atharva Veda Upanishads (50 Upanishads)
49. Prasna Upanishad
(Major Upanishad - Six Questions)
50. Mundaka Upanishad
(Major Upanishad - On higher knowledge)
51. Mandukya Upanishad
(Major Upanishad - The syllable AUM)
52. Shadvimsa (Shadvinsha) Upanishad
(On the twenty-six divine principles)
53. Bhasma (Bhasmabj) Upanishad
(On sacred ash and mortality)
54. Ganapati (Ganesa) Upanishad
(On the remover of obstacles)
55. Kalagni-Rudra (Kalagnirudra) Upanishad
(On fire and transformation)
56. Krishna Upanishad
(On divine incarnation)
57. Jabala Upanishad
(On hermit knowledge)
58. Sarvasara Upanishad
(On universal essence)
59. Nada-Bindu Upanishad
(On sound and point of consciousness)
60. Dhananjaya (Dhananjani) Upanishad
(On the conqueror of wealth)
61. Garbha Upanishad
(On embryonic existence)
62. Devata (Devi) Upanishad
(On divine feminine energy)
63. Athena Upanishad
(On the goddess of wisdom)
64. Subala Upanishad
(On gentle wisdom)
65. Kriira Upanishad
(On play and cosmic dance)
66. Mahanirvana (Mahannirvana) Upanishad
(On great liberation)
67. Sarva Upanishad
(On all aspects of reality)
68. Upanishad Upanishad
(On the Upanishadic knowledge itself)
69. Amrita-Bindu (Amritabindu) Upanishad
(On the nectar of consciousness)
70. Amrita-Nada (Amritanada) Upanishad
(On the nectar of sound)
71. Vishvasara Upanishad
(On the essence of the universe)
72. Kshurika Upanishad
(On the sharp blade of discrimination)
73. Santikalpa (Shantikalpa) Upanishad
(On peaceful practices)
74. Santivati (Shantivati) Upanishad
(On peaceful states)
75. Dvaya Upanishad
(On the dual nature of reality)
76. Pranagnihotra (Pranagnihotra) Upanishad
(On internal fire offering)
77. Parabrahma Upanishad
(On supreme Brahman)
78. Advaya Upanishad
(On non-dual truth)
79. Astavakra Upanishad
(By the eight-fold crippled sage)
80. Surya Upanishad
(On the sun consciousness)
81. Aksharana (Akshi) Upanishad
(On the indestructible essence)
82. Aditya Upanishad
(On the cosmic sun)
83. Savitri (Savitri) Upanishad
(On the solar force)
84. Purusha Upanishad
(On the universal person)
85. Maya Upanishad
(On the principle of appearance)
86. Atmashatka (Atma Shatka) Upanishad
(On the sixfold nature of self)
87. Satpragna (Satpragnapurna) Upanishad
(On full understanding of existence)
88. Eka-jati (Ekajati) Upanishad
(On the one birth of consciousness)
89. Shukarahasya (Shukarahasya) Upanishad
(On the secret of the boar manifestation)
90. Tarasara Upanishad
(On the essence that transcends)
91. Nada Upanishad
(On sound and vibration)
92. Kriivala (Krishna) Upanishad
(On divine love)
93. Bhallavi (Bhalavalli) Upanishad
(On powerful knowledge)
94. Yogi (Yogatattva) Upanishad
(On the essence of yoga)
95. Panchabrahma Upanishad
(On the five-fold Brahman)
96. Sakshya (Sakshya) Upanishad
(On direct witness consciousness)
97. Vaikhanasa Upanishad
(On meditative practices)
98. Tejobindu (Tejobindu) Upanishad
(On the point of pure light)
99. Chikitsa (Chikitsa) Upanishad
(On healing through knowledge)
100. Sambhu-Murti (Sambhu) Upanishad
(On the form of bliss)
101. Dhyani-Bindu Upanishad
(On meditation and point of focus)
102. Brahma-Vidya (Brahma-Vidya) Upanishad
(On knowledge of Brahman)
103. Aruna (Arunika) Upanishad
(On the dawning of knowledge)
104. Vasudeva Upanishad
(On the all-pervading consciousness)
105. Mudgala Upanishad
(On transformation through devotion)
106. Kali-Santara (Kalisantara) Upanishad
(On crossing the darkness)
107. Jitante (Jitante) Upanishad
(On conquering death)
108. Paramahamsa Parivrajakas (Paramahamsa) Upanishad
(On the supreme swan consciousness)
4. Study Recommendations
Beginner Path (0-1 year)
Start with accessible introductions and focus on practical understanding:
Essential Reading Order:
- "The Upanishads" - Eknath Easwaran (best first introduction)
- "Eight Upanishads" - Swami Gambhirananda (commentary-based)
- "The Mandukya Upanishad" - A.G.K. (focus on AUM)
- "Katha Upanishad" - Swami Nikhilananda (story-based)
Key Concepts to Master:
- Difference between Atman and Brahman
- The three states of consciousness
- Maya (appearance/illusion)
- Karma and rebirth
- The nature of liberation (Moksha)
Daily Practice (30-60 minutes):
- Read 1-2 verses from a major Upanishad
- Reflect on the meaning for 15 minutes
- Meditate on AUM for 20 minutes
- Journal insights and questions
Intermediate Path (1-3 years)
Study the major Upanishads with traditional commentaries:
Recommended Texts:
- "Shankara's Commentary" on major Upanishads (traditional interpretation)
- "The Principal Upanishads" - Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan (philosophical depth)
- "The Brahma Sutra" with Upanishad commentary
- All 13 major Upanishads in original order
Key Studies:
- Compare different Upanishadic schools of thought
- Study Sanskrit terms in depth
- Memorize key verses (minimum 50 verses)
- Explore Tantric and Yogic Upanishads
Daily Practice (60-90 minutes):
- Chant selected verses in Sanskrit
- Study one verse deeply for 30 minutes
- Meditation on specific concepts (Sakshi, Turiya, etc.)
- Discuss with teacher or study group
Advanced Path (3+ years)
Master all 108 Upanishads and explore specialized texts:
Comprehensive Study:
- Complete study of all 108 Upanishads
- Traditional texts: Shankara, Vidyaranya, Sureshvara
- Comparative study with other traditions (Tibetan Buddhism, Kashmir Shaivism)
- Research and original writing on Upanishadic philosophy
Specialized Areas:
- Sanskrit language mastery
- Philosophical systems (Advaita, Dvaita, Vishishtadvaita)
- Mystical experiences and direct realization
- Integration into daily life and teaching others
Daily Practice (2+ hours):
- Intensive meditation on Upanishadic teachings
- Self-inquiry (Ramana Maharshi method)
- Teaching and sharing knowledge
- Silencing the mind through sravana (hearing) and manana (reflection)
Important Note for All Levels
Study alone is not sufficient. The Upanishads are meant to be lived, not just studied.
Regular meditation, self-reflection, and guidance from a qualified teacher are essential.
As Adi Shankara taught: "Brahma satyam jagan mithya" (Brahman is real, the world is appearance) -
this must be experienced, not just intellectually understood.
5. Daily Practice Guidelines
Meditation Techniques from the Upanishads
1. AUM Meditation (Mandukya Upanishad)
From the Mandukya Upanishad:
"AUM is the whole of this. Its explanation is: all that has been, is, and will be
is AUM. Even that which is beyond time, space, and causation - all this is AUM."
Practice:
- Sit comfortably with spine erect
- Chant "A-U-M" slowly and clearly (3 seconds per sound)
- Then remain silent for 3 seconds
- Repeat for 20-30 minutes
- After practice, rest in the silence after AUM
2. "So-Hum" Meditation (Isa Upanishad)
From the Isa Upanishad:
"So-Hum" - I am That, That I am.
Practice:
- Breathe in silently: "So" (I am)
- Breathe out silently: "Hum" (That, the Absolute)
- Feel the identity between individual consciousness and universal consciousness
- Practice for 20-30 minutes
3. Sakshi Meditation - Witness Consciousness (Upanishadic Tradition)
Teaching from multiple Upanishads:
"You are the witness consciousness (Sakshi) of all experiences.
Rest in this witness nature."
Practice:
- Settle into meditation posture
- Ask: "Who am I?" or "What am I?"
- Observe: "I see thoughts" (not "I have thoughts")
- Recognize: "I am the witness of all experiences"
- Rest as pure awareness, the one who knows everything
4. Neti-Neti Meditation (Brihadaranyaka Upanishad)
From the teachings of sage Uddalaka:
"Neti neti" - Not this, not this. This is the method to discover the true self."
Practice:
- When thoughts arise, say: "I am not this thought"
- When sensations appear, say: "I am not this body"
- When emotions arise, say: "I am not this emotion"
- Continue until only pure awareness remains
- Rest in the awareness that is beyond all qualities
Japa Practice (Repetition)
Universal Mantras from Upanishadic Teaching
- "Aham Brahmasmi" - I am Brahman (Identity with the Absolute)
- "Tat Tvam Asi" - Thou art That (Individual is the Absolute)
- "Ayam Atma Brahma" - This Self is Brahman (Self is the Absolute)
- "Aham Vasudevasmi" - I am the all-pervading consciousness
Japa Guidelines:
- Repeat on 108-bead mala (minimum 1 round daily)
- Focus on the meaning, not just the sound
- Best practiced during Brahma Muhurta (4-6 AM)
- Continue throughout the day with mental repetition
Reading and Reflection
Daily Study Schedule
For All Levels:
- Morning (15-30 minutes): Read and contemplate 1-2 key verses
- Evening (15-30 minutes): Reflect on how the teaching applies to daily life
- Before Sleep (10 minutes): Review insights and set intention for practice
Study Questions for Reflection
- What is the difference between knowledge and realization?
- How do I distinguish between the real and the apparent?
- What is my true nature beyond all roles and identities?
- How can I live as the witness in daily activities?
- What does it mean that "I am already free"?
6. Quick Reference by Theme
| Theme |
Definition |
Key Upanishad(s) |
Study Verse |
| Brahman |
The absolute, infinite, eternal reality that is the foundation of all existence |
All Upanishads |
Sat-Chit-Ananda (Existence-Consciousness-Bliss) |
| Atman |
The individual self or consciousness, identical with Brahman |
Chhandogya, Brihadaranyaka |
"Aham Brahmasmi" |
| Maya |
The principle of appearance or illusion that hides true reality |
Shvetashvatara, Aitareya |
Creation as Lila (divine play) |
| Moksha |
Liberation from ignorance and the cycle of rebirth through self-knowledge |
Mundaka, Katha |
Beyond all dualities |
| Sat-Chit-Ananda |
The three attributes of Brahman: Existence, Consciousness, Bliss |
Taittiriya |
"From bliss we are born" |
| Karma |
The law of cause and effect that shapes experiences across lifetimes |
Katha, Prasna |
Action in detachment (Karma Yoga) |
| Dharma |
Righteous living aligned with one's true nature and cosmic order |
Multiple Upanishads |
Living in accordance with truth |
| Sakshi |
Witness consciousness - the awareness that witnesses all experiences |
Chhandogya, Brihadaranyaka |
The eternal witness |
| Turiya |
The fourth state of consciousness beyond waking, dreaming, and deep sleep |
Mandukya |
Silence after AUM |
| Neti-Neti |
"Not this, not this" - method of negating all identifications to find true self |
Brihadaranyaka, Chhandogya |
Teaching of Uddalaka to Shvetaketu |
7. Glossary of Sanskrit Terms
A-D
Advaita
Non-dualism; the teaching that there is only one reality (Brahman) and that individual consciousness is identical with it.
Aham Brahmasmi
"I am Brahman" - the great affirmation of identity from the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad.
Atman
The individual self, consciousness, or soul. In Advaita Vedanta, identical with Brahman.
AUM (Om)
The sacred syllable representing the totality of existence. Composed of A, U, M, and the silence after.
Brahman
The ultimate reality, the absolute, infinite, eternal consciousness that is the foundation of all existence.
Dharana
Concentration; focusing the mind on a single point (preliminary step to meditation).
Dhyana
Meditation; the continuous flow of consciousness toward the object of concentration.
Diksha
Initiation; receiving spiritual teaching and empowerment from a qualified teacher.
E-M
Guru
Teacher; one who dispels ignorance and guides students toward self-realization.
Ishvara
Lord; personal aspect of the absolute, with qualities and form (distinct from formless Brahman in Advaita).
Japa
Repetition of a mantra or divine name; form of meditation using sound.
Jivanmukti
Liberation while alive; one who has realized self-knowledge and lives in freedom.
Jnana Yoga
The path of knowledge; spiritual practice focused on discriminative inquiry into the nature of self and reality.
Karma
Action; the law of cause and effect that determines experiences in this life and future lives.
Kosha
Sheath; the five layers of human existence (physical, vital, mental, intellectual, and bliss).
Maya
Illusion or appearance; the principle that makes the one reality appear as many.
Moksha
Liberation; freedom from ignorance, the cycle of birth and death, and all limitations.
Mundaka
The Upanishad that teaches the difference between higher and lower knowledge, and the need for liberation.
N-Z
Neti-Neti
"Not this, not this" - method of negation to discover the true self by rejecting all identifications.
Prana
Life force; the vital energy that animates all living beings.
Prasna
Question; the Upanishad of six questions about the nature of reality and self.
Sakshi
Witness; the awareness that witnesses all experiences without being affected by them.
Samsara
The cycle of birth, death, and rebirth; the round of existence experienced by the deluded.
Sat-Chit-Ananda
Existence-Consciousness-Bliss; the three attributes of Brahman as taught in the Taittiriya Upanishad.
Satsang
Association with truth; company of spiritual seekers and teachers, or study of scriptures.
Shiksha
Teaching; instruction in pronunciation and meter of Vedic texts.
Sravana
Hearing; the first step in gaining self-knowledge by listening to teachings of the Upanishads.
Tat Tvam Asi
"Thou art That" - the great teaching of identity from the Chhandogya Upanishad.
Turiya
The fourth state of consciousness; the reality beyond waking, dreaming, and deep sleep.
Upanishad
Sitting near (teacher); esoteric teaching that reveals the non-dual nature of reality.
Vairagya
Detachment; dispassion toward worldly pleasures and the means to attain them.
Vedanta
End of the Vedas; the philosophical teachings of the Upanishads.
Viveka
Discrimination; the ability to distinguish between the real (Brahman) and the apparent (world).
8. Resources for Further Study
Recommended Books
Essential Reading (Beginner Level)
- "The Upanishads" - Eknath Easwaran
- Best introduction for modern readers. Clear, accessible translation with practical commentary.
- "The Upanishads: A New Translation" - Swami Nikhilananda
- Classic translation with insightful commentary based on traditional Advaita Vedanta.
- "Eight Upanishads" - Swami Gambhirananda
- Detailed commentary following Shankara's interpretation. Deep and thorough.
- "The Mandukya Upanishad and the Golden Bird" - A.G.K. Krishna
- Focused study on the shortest but most profound Upanishad.
Intermediate Level
- "The Principal Upanishads" - Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan
- Scholarly translation with extensive philosophical background and notes.
- "The Brahma Sutra" - Swami Sivananda
- Essential text that systematically presents Advaita Vedanta philosophy.
- "Self-Knowledge" - Swami Nikhilananda
- Commentary on the Brahma Sutra by Shankara, explaining the non-dual teaching.
- "The Upanishads: Breath of the Eternal" - Swami Prabhavananda & Frederick Manchester
- Accessible translation with psychological insights for modern readers.
Advanced Level
- Collected Works of Shankara
- Original commentaries on all major Upanishads by the founder of Advaita Vedanta.
- "Vivekachudamani" - Swami Madhavananda
- "Crest Jewel of Discrimination" - masterwork on self-inquiry and discrimination.
- "Panchadashi" - Swami Vidyaranya
- Comprehensive treatise on Advaita Vedanta philosophy and practice.
- "Aparokshanubhuti" - Swami Rama
- "Direct Experience of the Self" - practical guide to self-realization.
Online Resources
Sacred Texts Archives
- Sanskrit Documents Collection - sanskritdocuments.org
- Vedanta Society Library - vedanta.org
- Ramakrishna Math Archives - RamakrishnaMath.org
Audio Resources
- Swami Saradananda's Lectures - Available through Vedanta Society
- Ramana Maharshi's Talks - arunachala.org
- AUDIO UPANISHADS - Various channels with Sanskrit chanting and English explanation
Study Groups and Communities
- Local Vedanta Societies (Search by city)
- Online Study Groups (Facebook, Reddit: r/Vedanta)
- Ramana Maharshi Ashram (Live virtual satsang)
- Chinmaya Mission Centers (Global network of study groups)
Traditional Teachers to Study
Classical Commentators
- Adi Shankara (788-820 CE) - Founder of Advaita Vedanta
- Gaudapada (6th century) - Author of Mandukya Karika
- Vidyaranya (14th century) - Author of Panchadashi
- Sureshvara (8th century) - Shankara's disciple
Modern Teachers
- Swami Vivekananda (1863-1902) - Brought Vedanta to the West
- Ramana Maharshi (1879-1950) - Master of self-inquiry
- Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan (1888-1975) - Philosopher-President of India
- Swami Sivananda (1887-1963) - Synthesized different Vedanta schools
- Swami Chinmayananda (1916-1993) - Popularized Upanishadic teaching