Why is the Upanishadic concept of oneness relevant? (Upanishads…)

In the previous several posts, I discussed some interesting views expressed by one of the most ancient of the scriptures namely the Upanishads. Whether one agrees with whatever is discussed in the Upanishads or not, I personally feel that their core messages are very relevant today. 

In a world riddled with hatred, violence and narrow identities; seeing the entire creation as one entity makes lot of sense. As, many Upanishads point out, when one sees the same unified entity everywhere, in everyone, how can one hate or despise any other? We are not just islands unto ourselves, but parts of a whole, or different forms of the same single entity. 

So if one form gets hurt, it indirectly hurts us all. On the other hand, our betterment is not in our narrow interests, but in the interest of all. Is it not a vision that can unify not only all humans but also all animate and even inanimate things?

Upanishads are not just making statements, but they also provide a way of realizing the truths enunciated by them. That is through deep meditation by which anyone can attain the same truths.

If that gives an impression that the Upanishads advise one to retire to forest and spend time meditating, it is not so. They don’t recommend disassociation from the world.  As Ïshäväsya Upanishad puts it

One should aspire to live for full hindered years, performing one’s duties and enjoying the world. Only things you need to keep in mind are

1. Don’t be overly attached to worldly pleasures.  

2. Also don’t covet things that do not rightfully belong to you. After all, everything in this world belongs to the one who dwells in each and everything in this world.

If you live this way, you will not be tormented by the results of your actions. There is no better way to live, than this.

What is more interesting is that the Upanishads don’t say that you need to worship God, or please him. They also do not say that you have to deprive yourselves from all enjoyment. As long as you remember the above points, that is enough.

That is a very positive message which encourages one to live on for full life, enjoying the world, but without getting overly attached to pleasures, and at the same time without snatching someone else’s rightful share. What is most important is “keep doing your duty”.

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