The Universality of the Vedas

Abstract

The Vedas constitute a repository of all knowledge required by mankind to live and lead a successful and complete life “here,” paving the way at the same time for release from the cycle of birth and death and for “attaining” Bliss “thereafter.” For this the Vedic Sages had set forth in the Upanishads a methodology of arriving at the absolute Truth through a delicate system of enquiry and meditation preceded by strict physical, verbal and mental disciples prescribed on the basis of prolonged experimentation and perseverance. The Vedic teaching in this context appeals to the whole of mankind as it transcends colour, creed or community and is of concern and interest to all individuals, whatever be their beliefs and their calling in life. The individual self, the Jīva, is no different from the Universal Self, the Ātman or Brahman, knowing which all forms of geographical, social, cultural or physiological differences melt down into the Absolute Reality, the Eternal Truth, the underlying Consciousness of the whole Universe, the Satyam JñānamAnantam Brahma. This Upanishadic teaching is unique in itself, and is not limited by time and space. It is eternal and universal, for freedom and eternal happiness is that the whole of humanity is seeking. And this, only the Vedas can give.