Shvetashvatara Upanishad

Shvetashvatara Upanishad

The Shvetāshvatara Upanishad, belonging to the Krishna Yajurveda, is one of the principal Upanishads of Hindu philosophy. It explores the deepest questions of existence—about the Self (Atman), the ultimate reality (Brahman), and the cosmic cause of the universe. Unique among Upanishads, it emphasizes both the impersonal absolute and a personal God (Īshvara), often identified with Rudra-Shiva. It highlights the role of yoga, meditation, and devotion as means to realize the divine truth, while introducing concepts like Māyā (cosmic illusion). With its poetic imagery and devotional tone, this text bridges philosophy and theism, inspiring both Vedantic inquiry and the Bhakti tradition.