The Mundka Upanishad is part of the Atharva Veda and is divided into three chapters, each with two sections. The name is derived from the root Mundka, which means "to shave," because he who understands the teaching of the Upanishad is "shaved," or "liberated," from error and ignorance. This Upanishad distinguishes clearly between higher knowledge of the Supreme Brahman and lower knowledge of the empirical world. One can only reach Brahman through higher wisdom, not through sacrifices or worship. Only the sannyasin who has given up everything can attain the highest level of knowledge.
It is a Mantra-Upanishad, which means that it takes the form of a Mantra. However, as the commentators point out, despite being written in verse, it is not to be used for sacrificial purposes, as are other mantras. Its sole purpose is to teach the highest knowledge, Brahman knowledge, which cannot be obtained through sacrifices or worship (Upasana), but only through the teaching contained in the Upanishad. Each mantra in this Upanishad is a joy to read, with its beautiful style, lucid meters, serious wording, and lofty feelings.
- Publisher: Gita Press, Gorakhpur
- Language: Sanskrit Text with Hindi translation
- Pages: 112
- Cover: Paperback
- Product Type: Religious Books
- Weight: 240gram
- Size: 8inchX5.5inch
