The Tejo Bindu Upanishad (The Essence of Radiant Consciousness)

 The Tejo Bindu Upanishad  (The Essence of Radiant Consciousness)

"Even to the wise and the thoughtful this meditation is difficult to perform, and difficult to attain, difficult to cognise and difficult to abide in, difficult to define and difficult to cross.”

The Tejo Bindu Upanishad is attached to the Krishna Yajurveda and classified as one of the 21 Yoga Upanishads. Its exact origins and dating remain uncertain, but it is believed to have been composed during ancient times, possibly between the 5th and 8th centuries AD. It delves into the nature of Tejobindu, the sacred drop of radiant consciousness, and its significance in the journey of self-realization. The text emphasizes the practice of yoga and dhyana (meditation) as a path to understanding the soul, but acknowledges that meditation is very difficult. Within the verses, seven extra limbs of yoga are described in addition to those included in the eight-limbed path of Patanjali’s Ashtanga yoga. It outlines what is required for a successful meditation practice, including having Brahman as the focal point. The text closes with a description of a yogi who has achieved spiritual freedom or liberation.

The Upanishad centers around the concept of Tejobindu, often referred to as the drop of radiant consciousness. It represents the essence of divine illumination that exists within every individual. It explores the interplay between Nada (sound) and Bindu (point or dot)within the Tejobindu. Nada symbolizes the primordial sound that resonates throughout the cosmos, while Bindu represents the focal point of concentration. Further it explains that by merging Nada and Bindu within the Tejobindu, seekers can attain a state of transcendence and unity with the ultimate reality.

The Upanishad offers guidance on the practices required for realizing the essence of Tejobindu. It emphasizes the importance of meditation, focusing the mind on the inner sound (Nada), and the contemplation of the Bindu as the focal point of concentration. It delves into the nature of consciousness and its relationship with Tejobindu. It teaches that consciousness is eternal, all-pervading, and the essence of existence. The Upanishad emphasizes that by realizing the luminous nature of consciousness through the Tejobindu, individuals can transcend the limitations of the material world and merge with the divine essence.

The teachings of this Upanishad hold immense relevance in the modern world, where individuals seek spiritual growth, inner peace, and self-realization. Its emphasis on the luminous nature of consciousness reminds us of the infinite potential that exists within each of us. In an era where distractions and external influences abound, the Upanishad’s teachings offer guidance on focusing our awareness inward and uncovering the radiant essence of our being. Furthermore, the exploration of Nada and Bindu within the Tejobindu aligns with contemporary understandings of the power of sound and concentration in meditation and mindfulness practices. It offers seekers a profound exploration of Tejobindu, the drop of radiant consciousness that resides within every being. By delving into the wisdom of the Upanishad, individuals can cultivate a deeper understanding of consciousness, transcend the limitations of the material world, and merge with the luminous essence of existence.