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The Prashna Upanishad

An Upanishad that explores fundamental questions about existence through a dialogue. Begin your journey through its chapters.

The First Question

प्रथमः प्रश्नः

This chapter addresses Kabandhi's question regarding the origin of creation, explaining how Prajapati manifested the universe through the fundamental duality of rayi (matter) and prana (life/spirit).

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The Question on Prana

Prāṇa Praśna

This chapter explores the essential nature and supremacy of Prana, establishing it as the fundamental life-force that sustains all bodily functions, senses, and indeed the entire cosmic existence.

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The Yoga of the Life Breath

Prāṇa Yoga

This chapter elucidates the nature, origin, fivefold divisions, functions, and ultimate significance of Prana in connecting the individual soul to the cosmos, and its role in destiny and spiritual realization.

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Yoga of the Imperishable and the Individual Self

पुरुष-अक्षर-योगः

This chapter investigates the nature of the individual self (Purusha) across different states of consciousness (waking, dream, deep sleep) and reveals its ultimate resting place in the imperishable Supreme Atman.

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The Yoga of Meditation on Om

Oṅkārābhidhyāna Yoga

This chapter explains the progressive spiritual benefits and ultimate liberation achieved through meditating on the sacred syllable AUM (Om) in its single, dual, and threefold aspects, leading to different realms and ultimately to the Supreme Brahman.

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Inquiry into the Sixteen-Part Purusha

Puruṣa Ṣoḍaśakalā Praśnaḥ

This chapter explores the nature and origin of the sixteen aspects of existence and their ultimate absorption into the imperishable, partless Supreme Purusha.

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