Give a brief explanation
Krishna
The Kaushitaki Upanishad is an ancient text that belongs to the Rigveda and discusses various topics related to Vedanta philosophy. ¹ One of the themes that it explores is the concept of detachment and renunciation, which are considered essential for attaining liberation from the cycle of birth and death. ²
According to the Kaushitaki Upanishad, detachment and renunciation are not merely external acts of giving up worldly possessions and pleasures, but also internal states of mind that free one from attachment, egoism, ignorance and desire. ² The text advises that one should cultivate detachment by realizing the impermanence and illusory nature of the phenomenal world, and by identifying oneself with the supreme self (atman) that is eternal, blissful and pure. ³
Renunciation, on the other hand, is the practical expression of detachment, where one renounces all actions that are motivated by selfishness and ignorance, and performs only those actions that are in harmony with one's true nature and the cosmic order (dharma). ⁴ The text also describes the lifestyle of a renunciant (sannyasi), who should live a simple, austere and peaceful life, without harming any living being, without expecting any reward or recognition, and without being affected by praise or blame. ⁵
The Kaushitaki Upanishad asserts that by practicing detachment and renunciation, one can overcome the bondage of karma and attain the highest knowledge of Brahman, the ultimate reality that is beyond name and form. ⁶ Such a person becomes free from fear, sorrow and delusion, and enjoys supreme peace and bliss.
Source:
(1) Kaushitaki Upanishad - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaushitaki_Upanishad
(2) The Kausitaki Upanishad English Translation by Jayaram V - Hindu Website https://www.hinduwebsite.com/kausitaki-upanishad.asp
(3) Kaushitaki Upanishad - Hinduism Made Simple - Wara KarmaYoga. https://texts.wara.in/vedas/upanishads/kaushitaki.html
(4) Kaushitaki Upanishad – Vyasa Mahabharata. https://www.vyasaonline.com/kaushitaki-upanishad/
(5) Kathashruti Upanishad - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kathashruti_Upanishad
(6) RENUNCIATION IN THE UPANISHADS 600 to 200 BCE - The Hindus: An .... https://erenow.net/common/thehindusanalternativehistory/8.php
Krishna
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