The Importance Of The Upanishads In Brahmanism

Brahmanism, A Direct Predecessor To Hinduism, Was Based On Texts Called Upanishads. Firstly, the Upanishads represent a collection of ancient religious and philosophical texts. Written in India between 800-500 BCE. Hence, being thousands of years old. The Upanishads appeared in a time, when people needed a bigger spiritual progress than those attained with Vedic religious practices. People focused on non-attachment, giving up every material possession and even their family life.

Brahmanism, A Direct Predecessor To Hinduism, Was Based On Texts Called Upanishads

The Upanishads contain the teachings of those who gave up their material possessions and practiced deep spiritual work for spiritual awakening. Therefore, these texts allow you to understand your inner self from an eternal spiritual point of view. Instead of the then normal religious perspective.

The name of this collection of texts comes from the Sanskrit “upa” (near) and “shad” (sit). Therefore, the meaning of “upanishad” is something similar to “sitting down near”. Referring to sitting near an illuminated teacher. Who will pass you his teachings and practices. The Upanishads being the closest thing to an illuminated teacher. Because it is a collection of teaches and practices from teachers and masters who already achieved enlightenment.

The Upanishads of Brahmanism

It might be hard to believe, but there are over 200 Upanishads. But 14 of these 200 are the most important. The 14 most important Upanishads are:

• Isa
• Kena
• Katha
• Prasna
• Mundaka
• Mundakya
• Taittiriya
• Aitareya
• Chandogya
• Brhadaranyaka
• Svetasvatara
• Kausitaki
• Mahanarayana
• Maitri

These are mostly important because they contain the basic philosophies and practices. These texts analyze certain philosophies from neutral perspectives. Giving accurate interpretations with all the opposing views in them.

Brahmanism, A Direct Predecessor To Hinduism, Was Based On Texts Called Upanishads

The Upanishads are not instructions. They are texts with interpretations and explanations. These texts inspire you to focus on your inner self. These texts inspire you to adapt a more philosophical thinking. Although, these texts are for teachers. Because, even one of the first lessons teaches that the human intellect can’t understand the Upanishads.

In conclusion, Brahmanism, A Direct Predecessor To Hinduism, Was Based On Texts Called Upanishads. And these texts contain helpful philosophies for those who need answers. Also, these sacred texts are very important for the followers of Brahmanism. And it is impressive that they managed to survive thousands of years.