A Meaningful Invocation

At HCI, classes and other gatherings begin with the above invocation. This well-known and treasured verse is found in both the Katha and Taittirya Upanishads. We recite this Shanti mantra (peace chant) to remove obstacles on our path to acquiring knowledge, and so that both teacher and student approach the learning process with a favorable attitude. In the 8th century CE*, Sri Adi Shankaracharya wrote a renowned exposition on this verse in his commentary on Book II (Brahmavalli) of the Taittirya Upanishad.

In his exposition, Shankaracharya details the profound meaning of this shloka. For example, the second line expresses the aspiration that both teacher and student find tremendous enjoyment in learning. The word Bhunaktu conveys that both parties should relish the educational experience.

The use of Viryam in the third line, denotes the intention for these studies to be dynamic and compelling. The student aims to develop the intellectual capacity to receive knowledge at the highest levels, and the teacher must sustain the energy required to transmit that knowledge. In the fourth line, the word Tejasvi signifies the goal that our studies be radiant in their scholarly brilliance. Shankaracharya indicates that this verse is recited when commencing study of the Upanishads which are the path to enlightenment (Brahma Vidya); therefore the teachings and discussions must necessarily be intellectually luminous. In the final line there is an appeal that there be no friction between teacher and student -- both should maintain humility and an open mind. As with all Peace Mantras, the word Shanti is recited 3 times at the conclusion to invoke peace in one's own mind and physical self, peace for other beings in the local environment and peace for the natural world.

The Upanishads place the highest emphasis on seeking knowledge. They state that qualities of discernment, objectivity, focus, and a true desire for enlightenment are paramount when undertaking any educational endeavor. We aspire to maintain these same qualities in every class at HCI and in the pages of our HCI journal, Kutumba.

*Dates are disputed, different sources date Sri Adi Shankaracharya's life to be anywhere between 5th century BC to 8th century CE.

References:
Swami Chinmayananda "Taittiriya Upanishad"
Swami Sarvapriyananda, Ramakrishna Mission, Lectures on Katha Upanishad
Taittitirya Upanishad with the commentaries of Sri Sankaracharya, translated by Alladi Mahadeva Sastry

Lakshmi Srinivasan, M.D.

Member, HCI Editorial Board | Graduating CHT-2022

Dr. Srinivasan is a practicing physician. She lives in Northern California with her husband and children. She is a recent graduate of the CHT program (class of 2022) and is excited to serve on the editorial board of Kutumba, the HCI journal.