Narsimha Tapaniya Upanishad
Narsimha Uttara Tapaniya Upanishad & Narsimha Poorva Tapaniya
(Part of the Atharva Veda)
Introduction:
Nrisimha Tapaniya Upanishad is presented usually as two separate Upanishads, the Narsimha Poorva and the Narsimha Uttara Tapaniya Upanishads. In this section we have presented both the Upanishads together for reader's convenience. The Nrisimha Tapaniya Upanishad speaks about the incarnation of Lord Vishnu as Narasimha, who incarnated partly as human and partly as lion to rescue Prahlada from his demonic father and save the worlds from the latter's oppression.
Interestingly it begins with a reference to Shankara rather than Vishnu and describes Lord Narasimha as Neela Lohita, the blue necked one, an epithet usually ascribed to Lord Siva. He is also described directly as Umapathi. Lord Narasimha is depicted in the Upanishad, not just as an angry god with a beastly appearance, but as the god of knowledge and the lord of Brahma.
The Poorva Tapaniya Upanishad is devoted mostly to explain the meaning of the Narasimha Mantra, referred here as the king of the mantras, and other related mantras. The Uttara Tapaniya Upanishad deals mostly with deeper spiritual aspects such as the nature of soul, the nature of human personality and different states of consciousness. The soul is described as the ever watchful lion, free from all attachments and delusion.
Translation by Shri P. R. Ramachander, reproduced with his graceful consent
Nrisimha Poorva Tapaniya Upanishad:
Om ! O Devas, may we hear with our ears what is auspicious; May we see with our eyes what is auspicious, O ye worthy of worship ! May we enjoy the term of life allotted by the Devas, Praising them with our body and limbs steady ! May the glorious Indra bless us ! May the all-knowing Sun bless us ! May Garuda, the thunderbolt for evil, bless us ! May Brihaspati grant us well-being ! Om ! Let there be Peace in me ! Let there be Peace in my environment ! Let there be Peace in the forces that act on me !
Om Shanti ! Shanti ! Shanti !
The First Upanishad
Bhagawan Narasimha who is partly human and partly lion shines as Parabrahma with Rutha (discipline of the visible world) and Sathya (basic truth). He appears with two colours viz. black and golden red. His nature is to go up and he has a very terrible and fearsome stare but he is a “Sankara” doing good to people. He is called “Neela Lohitha (He who is red and black)” because his neck is black and the top of it is red. In another of his aspects he is Umapathi (husband of Uma) and Pasupathi (Lord of all beings). He holds the bow called “Pinaka” and has great luster. He is the god of all knowledge. He is god of all beings. He is the Lord of all Vedas. He is the boss of Brahma and He is praised by Yajur Veda. One should know the praise of Sama Veda of him. Those who know that will attain the deathless state.
The Second Upanishad
Devas were afraid of death, sins and family life. They approached Praja Pathi. He told them about the Narasimha Mantra which was “the King of all Mantras” written in Anushtup meter. Because of this, they won victory over death. They won over all sins and also destroyed the problems of family life. So any of those who are afraid of death, sins and family life, should get themselves taught the “Narasimha Mantra” which is called “the King of Mantras” and which is written in anushtup meter. They all would win over death and win over sin as well problems due to family life.
The King of Mantras: (The following is a simple translation of the King of Mantras of Lord Narasimha and what follows is an explanation and justification of each description.)
My salutations to That Nrusimha,
Who is fierce,
Who is heroic,
Who is Maha Vishnu,
Who is burning,
Who has faces every where,
Who is half Lion and half Man,
Who is fearful,
Who is safe,
Who is death and deathlessness.
1.He is called “Ugra [fierce]” because by his power He creates, looks after, destroys and elevates without break and also attracts all devas, all beings, all bhoothas Hey Lord Narasimha, you who is being praised by me, please give me perennial happiness even when I am in this body which is not permanent. Let your soldiers kill all my enemies who are different from me.
2.He is called “Veera [heroic]” because by his power He makes all worlds, all devas, all beings and all boothas play, and allow them to take rest and also creates, helps them grow and attracts without any break these worlds, devas, beings and boothas. He is behind every action, very capable, mountain like and one who fulfills the desires of devas.
3.He is “Maha Vishnu”, because he pervades in all the worlds and makes all the world pervade, similar to the fatty gum that spreads in all meat, from this side to that and also from other side to this side. There is nothing in the world that is not him. He is pervading in all things in the world. He is the leader of all souls. Worship of souls is His worship. He exists in all the three shining things viz. Moon, Sun and fire.
4.He is called “Jwalantham [burning]”, because he makes the entire world which includes all devas, all beings and all Bhoothas shine because of his luster and also shines in them and makes them release flames. He is the one who created the world and makes it rapidly multiply. He is the one who shines because of his own luster and also makes others shine. He spreads heat throughout the world and makes the world swelter. He spreads his rays everywhere and makes them release rays. He has a personality which causes only good. He gives only that which is good and he is good.
5.He is called “Sarvatho Mukham [having faces everywhere]” because he sees everywhere without having any organs, he is able to hear every thing, he is able to go every where, he is able to attract everything, and also because he is spread everywhere and exists every where. In the beginning he was alone and he has become all these things now. Those who rule over the world came from him. In the end everything goes back and merges in him. I salute him who has faces every where.
6.Among all animals the most fear some and also most special is the lion. That is why God of the Universe took birth as Narasimha. That deathless form became one which does good to the entire world. That is why he is called “Narasimham [half man and half lion]”. That Maha Vishnu who has this fearsome form does not cause fear among his devotees. He is being worshipped and praised by them. He is the one who travels all over earth and also one who lives on the mountain top. In his form of Trivikrama, he measured all the worlds in three steps.
7.He is called "Bheeshanam [fear full]” because all the crowds of devas, men and Bhoothas and all the worlds run away fearing Him; but he is not afraid of anything. The wind blows because it is afraid of Him. The Sun rises above because he is afraid of Him. It is because of fear for Him, that the God of fire, Indra and the God of death do their work.
8.He is called “Bhadram [safe]’ because he is good things personified, because he forever shines giving good things, because he makes others shine, because he is superior and because he does very good things. Hey Devas, we have to hear with our ears about this “Bhadram”. Hey, those of you who are fit to be worshipped, we have to see with our eyes that “Bhadram”. Let us live as much as the Gods live with healthy organs and healthy bodies praising and singing Him.
9.He is called “Mruthyu-Mruthyum [death and deathlessness]” because just by mere thought of His devotees, he destroys death and untimely death to them. He is one who gives the knowledge of the soul and also one who gives strength. All devas bow before Him and praise Him. Let us satisfy Him by offering Him “Havis-food” through the fire sacrifice because even his shadow is nectar and he is the death which destroys death.
10.He is worshipped by the chanting of “Namami [I salute him]”, because he is being worshipped by all devas, all those who have forsaken his world and all those who swear by Brahmam and also because the lord of the Vedas worship him telling these words. Indra, Mithra (Sun), Aryama and all other devas exist in him.
11.I was born before this world which is pretty and orderly. I existed even before the devas. I am the central power of that which never dies. He who gives me (in my form as food for people) in charity, becomes the one who protects the soul. If given without understanding this, I who am food, eat the one who eats. I am the one who becomes all the world and destroys it. My light is like that of a sun, who standing alone gives light to all the world.
This Upanishad says that one who understands this attains salvation.
The Third Upanishad
The devas requested Brahma to teach them the power of Anushtup Mantra Raja (The king of Chants set to anushtup meter) and also its root. Brahma told them:
This illusion (Maya) which is the power of Narasimha (which is Om) is the one which creates everything, protects them and destroys them. Therefore you have to realize that this illusion is the power. The one who understands the power of this illusion, he crosses all sins and also attains deathlessness. He enjoys the wealth with fame. The experts in Brahmam argue among themselves whether this is short, long or extra long (Pronunciation?). One who pronounces this with short ending, will burn away all sins and would attain deathlessness. He who pronounces this in long ending, would get wealth with fame and also attain deathlessness. He who pronounces it with extra long ending would attain ethereal knowledge and also deathlessness. What follows is the explanation given by sages:
“Oh power behind EEm who is the personification of the power of illusion, please protect us. Please bless us so that we are able to cross easily in a straight forward manner this sea of birth and death. People who know you, call you also as Sreedevi, Lakshmi, Parvathy, Bhoodevi (The Goddess of Earth), Sashti Devi, Sree Vidhya and Indra Sena. Requesting you to give me long life, I submit myself to you who is the mother of all Vedas.
All the beings and things in the world were produced from the sky (Ether). All living things were made from the sky. They live in the sky. They go towards the sky and enter and disappear there. So we have to understand that the sky is the root (The root word for the sky is Ham).”
The explanation given by sages are as follows:
“That root “Ham” is the Sun God traveling in the pure sky, in “Air” in the atmosphere, in “Fire” in fire sacrifices, and exists as “Guests” in homes. That is the only one thing which is with devas and also with men. It is the truth. It is that thing which is born out of sky, water, earth, sacrificial fire and mountains. This is the great truth. The Upanishad says that “only the one who knows this knows the secret implication of the mantra”.
Fourth Upanishad
The devas approached Brahma and asked him to teach them about the branch (part) mantras of the Narasimha Mantra Raja. Brahma told them that they should know that the Pranava, Savithri, Yajur Lakshmi and Narasimha Gayathri are the four parts (Branches) of Narasimha Mantra and also that any one who knows this attains deathlessness.
1. Pranavam is nothing but “Om”
2. The Savithri Mantra which protects those who chant it is told in Yajur Veda. It has spread throughout the world. The Savithri Ashtakshara (Eight letters) consists of the two letters “Gruni”, the three letters, “Soorya” and the three letters “Aadhithya”. This is a chant which increases your stature and your wealth. Great wealth will come in search of one who knows this.
3. The Yajur Mahalakshmi Mantra is “Om Bhoor Lakshmi, Bhuvar Lakshmi, Suva Kala Karni, Thanno Lakshmi Prachodayath”. This has 24 letters. All this universe is in the form of this Gayathri. So the one who knows this Yajur Maha Lakshmi Mantra, would enjoy great wealth with lot of fame.
4. The Narasimha Gayathri is, “Om Nrusimhaya Vidhmahe Vajra Nakhaya Deemahi. Thannah Simha Prachodayath”. This is the mantra in which all the Vedas and Devas reside. The one who knows this would be the one with whom the Devas and Vedas will live forever.
The devas approached Brahma and asked him, “By chanting which Mantra, God will take great mercy on us and give us a sight of His form. Please tell us about that.” Then Brahma told them as follows:
“Om, Um, Om. Yo Vai Nirusimho Devo Bhagawan Yascha Brahma Thasmai Vo Namo Namah. Om Kram Om. Yo Vai Nrusimho Devo Bhagwan Yascha Vishnu Thasmai Vai Namo Nama. Om Veem Om. Yo Vai Nrusimho Devo Bhagwan Yascha Maheswara Thasmai Vai Namo Nama.”
[The 32 gods to whom similar mantra has to be prayed with Um-kram-Veem-Ram are Brahma, Vishnu, Maheswara Purusha, Eashwara, Saraswathi, Sree Gowri, Prakuthi, Vidhya, Omkara, Ardha mathra, Vedhaa, Panchakhya, Saptha Vyahrudaya, Loka Pala, Vasava, Rudra, Aadhithya, Ashtou Gruha, Maha Bhootha, Kaala, Manu, Mruthyu, Yama, Kandhaka, Paraana, Soorya, Soma, Virat Purusha, and Jeeva and in the end chant “Om Ham, Om, Yo Vai Nrusimho Devo Bhagawan Yascha Sarvam Tasmai Vai Namo Nama.”)
Brahma told, “If One who prays God daily using these 32 mantras, God will become greatly pleased and would appear personally. So to any one who prays Bhagawan Narasimha using these mantras, He would appear to him personally. That devotee would also see everything and attain deathlessness .Thus tells the great Upanishad.”
Fifth Upanishad
Devas approached Brahma and requested him, “Bhagawan, please tell us about the famous Chakra called Maha Chakra. The sages tell that ”It is supposed to fulfill all the wishes and is the gateway to salvation”.
Lord Brahma told them:
“Sudharshana (the holy wheel of Lord Vishnu) is that great Chakra. On its middle is written, the Taraka mantra (OM) and also the single letter of Narasimha (Kshroum), on its six petals of the Sudarshana six letters (Sahasrara Hum Phat) are written, on its eight petals the eight letters (Om Namo Narayanaya) are written, on its twelve petals is written the twelve holy letters (Om Namo Vasudevaya), on its sixteen petals, the mathruka (model) sixteen letters with their roots (Am Aam, Em, EEm…. Aha) is written and on its 32 petals are written the letters of the “Narasimha Anushtup Mantra Raja.” This is the Sudarshana Chakra, This fulfills all ones wishes and is the gateway of salvation. It is a form of Yajur Veda, Rig Veda, Sama Veda, Brahmam and Amrutha (nectar).
The one who daily chants this “Narasimha Anushtup Mantra Raja“ would be able to control fire, control wind, control Sun, control moon, control water, control all devas, control all planets and control poison.
Rig Veda tells us about this, “The devotees who practice this would be able to see Lord Vishnu in the ethereal sky, like an ordinary man is able to see the sun in the sky. The devotees who are Brahmins would be able to praise the lighted Vishnu’s form. The Upanishads tell that, this would be attained only by one who worships without any desire.”
Om ! O Devas, may we hear with our ears what is auspicious; May we see with our eyes what is auspicious, O ye worthy of worship ! May we enjoy the term of life allotted by the Devas, Praising them with our body and limbs steady ! May the glorious Indra bless us ! May the all-knowing Sun bless us ! May Garuda, the thunderbolt for evil, bless us ! May Brihaspati grant us well-being ! Om ! Let there be Peace in me ! Let there be Peace in my environment ! Let there be Peace in the forces that act on me !
Here ends the Nrisimha Poorva Tapaniyopanishad, as contained in the Atharva-Veda.
Om Shanti ! Shanti ! Shanti !
Nrisimha Uttara Tapaniya Upanishad:
Om ! O Devas, may we hear with our ears what is auspicious; May we see with our eyes what is auspicious, O ye worthy of worship ! May we enjoy the term of life allotted by the Devas, Praising them with our body and limbs steady ! May the glorious Indra bless us ! May the all-knowing Sun bless us ! May Garuda, the thunderbolt for evil, bless us ! May Brihaspati grant us well-being ! Om ! Let there be Peace in me ! Let there be Peace in my environment ! Let there be Peace in the forces that act on me !
Om Shanti ! Shanti ! Shanti !
First Chapter
Devas approached Lord Brahma and requested him, “Please teach us about the soul which is more minute than the atom and also about the letter “Om”. He said, “So be it” and what he said was:
“All this is the letter “Om”. What is past, what is present and what will be in future are its interpretations. All these are Om. All these are Brahmam. This soul also is Brahmam. Joining this Atma (soul) with the Brahmam called Om and joining together the Brahmam and the soul, and realizing that the birthless, deathless, nectar drenched and fearless Brahmam is nothing but the Om, and then putting together the three types of bodies and all these in to it and then making it our own so as to become one with that and then destroy it. Continue to meditate that Om which is the soul with the three types of bodies and also the Parabrahmam with three types of bodies. This soul which is gross and enjoys mega pleasures, which is also very minute and enjoys even the minutest pleasures and which becomes united and enjoys the pleasures of happiness, has four legs (branches).
When it is awake its feelings are gross. It enjoys gross feelings with its seven organs and 19 faces (ten sense organs, five pranas, mind, brain, sensibility and ego). Its name is,Chaturathma Viswan (on the whole) and Vaisvanaran (partly). This is its first leg.
In the state of dream, its feelings are very minute. It will enjoy this minute sense with its seven organs and nineteen faces. Its name is Chaturathma Thaijasan (on the whole) and also Hiranygarbhan (partly). This is its second leg.
Where there is no desire and also where there are no dreams, that state is called Sushupthi. In that state, one is single, personification of knowledge, having an endless form, one who enjoys happiness and steadfastly concentrates only on knowledge. His name is Chaturathma Pragnan (knower). This is the third leg (aspect). He alone is Lord of all beings, one who knows everything, one who resides in everything, one who is the root cause of everything and one where all beings which were born meet their end. These three involving Sushupthi and Swapna are only illusions. Soul is the only form which is real.
The fourth feet (aspect) of this four fold soul is Thureeya. It is something which make all others act, something which is within everything and it is the active essence beyond Jagrat (awakening), Sushupthi (sleep) and Swapna(dream). Something about it is as follows: It is without macro consciousness. It is without micro consciousness. It is without medium consciousness. It is the personification of consciousness. It is not something immobile and it is not immobile consciousness. It cannot be seen. It cannot be described. It cannot be understood. It is something without any identification. It is something which is unimaginable. It is something which cannot be pointed out. It is something which can be perceived only with the firm belief that there is only one soul. It is that aspect of Pancha Boothas (Five elements viz earth, air, fire, water and ether), where the entire universe is crashed in. It is considered as the fourth state after Shiva (peace), Santha (inner peace without any negative activity), and Advaita (the concept of non dualism). It is the soul. It is that thing which has to be understood. It is that aspect of God, which is the knowledge beyond all knowledge and is called Thuriya Thuriyam.
Second Chapter
The four branches of Brahmam, which is Shining well, is full of same essence of happiness, is never aging, is never dying, is full of nectar and which is providing protection, should be matched with the four letters (branches) of Om. The one who knows, that the Chaturathma Viswan (on the whole) and Vaiswanaran (partly) who are awake and have similarity to the four formed Aakara (letter Aa), are spread inside everything in the form of Sthoola (macro), Sookshma (micro), Bheeja (root) and Sakshi (witness) and are the first of everything, would realize all his wishes. He would be the first among every one.
The Chaturathma Thaijasan (on the whole) and Hiranya Garbhan (partly) who exist in the state of dreams are similar to the four formed letter Uu. This Uu has the form of gross, micro, root and witness. Because of its greatness and because of its double relation, the one who knows this through gross, micro, root and witness aspects would increase the tide of knowledge. He would possess equanimity along with pleasure and pain.
The Chaturathma Pragnan (on the whole) and Easwaran (partly), who are in the state of sleep, are similar to the four formed letter Ma. This letter Ma also has the forms of gross, micro, root and witness. The one who knows this in its aspect of its measurability and its capacity to hide it in itself by macro, micro, root and witness properties, would be able to measure the entire world by his wisdom and would be able to hide everything within himself.
Like this we have to pray on the stages of wakefulness, sleep and dream by the Aa, Uu, and Ma letters of Om. The fourth letter is the one which has within itself the Easwara. It is that which can rule by itself, it is itself Easwara and it has a self glitter. This soul which is the fourth, exists as known and unknown among all beings. Its light is like the Kalagni Surya (sun who is like a fire causing death) at the time of the final deluge. It gives to all, itself as soul and would make everything in to itself. Like the Sun which swallows darkness, this soul which is the unified power, exists like fire which remains detached after burning the fuel, beyond word and mind and has a holy divine form and is the Thuriya. This is the Om. It is within everything which has a name and form, and is the knowledge and the knower. Because it exists as Thuriya and has a divine form and is within everything as knowledge and the knower and is detached and formless, there are no differences within it. And so the teaching regarding this is as follows:
Because it is without syllable, it is peace (Shiva), it is the place where universe meets the end, it is indescribable, it has a non dualistic form and is placed in the fourth position, and it is “Om” itself. The soul, who understands this in this manner, would attain the soul himself.
This valorous hero would understand Thuriya using the Narsaimha Anushtup Mantra Raja. This would make the soul shine. He should deeply meditate on Brahmam as something which would destroy everything, which cannot be conquered by any one, which is everywhere, which shines for ever, which is devoid of ignorance, which is able to cut off his own bondage, which is non dual, which is personification of happiness, which is the basis for everything, which exists for ever and which is one without ignorance, passion and base qualities.
Third Chapter
Meditate deeply on Pranava (Om) in the form of Chidagni (The fire within) which is in Agni Mandala (Orbit of fire) of the Mooladhara, in the Maha Peeta (consisting of 4, 7 and 32 petal lotus) with its family of four worlds (Earth, atmosphere, heavens and moon world) and seven souls (Loka-Veda-Devatha-Gana-Chanda-Agni-Vyahruthi). Then meditate on letter Aa which is the Chaturathma (4 souls) and the Sapthathma (seven souls) as Brahma in the belly (Mani Pooraka), on letter Uu as Vishnu in the heart (Aanahatha), on letter Ma as Rudra in the middle of eyelids (Aagna), on the dot which is the happy nectar form of the soul of Omkara (Sound of Om) in Dwadasantha (just above the eyes) and the soul (Athma) in the form of sound in Shodasantha. Thus after worshipping with nectar (Ananda Amrutha) the four fold Brahmas (Devatha, Teacher, Mantra and the soul), Vishnu, Rudra separately and then together in the form of Linga with offerings and then unifying the linga forms in the Atma Jyothi (Light of the soul) and filling up the macro, micro and causal bodies with this light, we have to unify Atma Jyothi which is their basis with macro, micro, root and witness properties. Afterwards adjust the very gross Virat form in the very micro Hiranyagarbha form, and this micro form in the great causal Iswara form and after arranging the mantras similarly, and meditating on “Otha-Anuj-Jnathru-Anugna-Avikalpa” stages, and merging all this in to the Omkara (sound of Om) in Thuriya, we have to reach the Nirvikalpa Paramathma (formless great truth).
Fourth Chapter
Thus the soul should be meditated upon nine times as the Omkara form of Para Brahma with thuriya pranava sound. Using anushtup mantra as the ever happy full Atma starting with the chants “Om Ugram, Sachidananda Poorna-Prathyag-Sadathmanam, Nrusimham Pramathmanam Param Brahma Chinthayami” and ending with “Om Mruthyum Mruthyum….”. Then the same prayer nine times with Chidathmanam instead of Sadathmanam. Then the same prayer 9 times with Anandathmanam instead of Sadathmanam. Then the same prayer 9 times with Poornathmanam instead of Sadathmanam and again the same prayer with Pratyagathmanam instead of Sadathmanam. Meditating well on the five forms of Sath, Chit, Ananda, Poorna and Atma and pray with the Navathmaka mantras and then meditate on the soul using “Aham (self)”, then salute and then unite yourself with Brahmam. [Example for mantras of Namaskara (saluting) “Om Ugram Sachidananda Poorna Prathyag Sadathmanam (substitute Chidathmanam etc) Nrusimham Paramathmanam Param Brahma Aham Namami.”]
The other alternative is to pray Lord Narasimha using the Anushtup Mantra. He (Narasimha) who is God exists as a human being and also as soul of every one for all times and every where, and also as one who destroys attachments and also as God of the universe. He is the soul of Thuriya. Believing he is yourself, the one who practices yoga should meditate on the Omkara Brahmam.
He is the great sage who serves God, who establishes the lion with its fame, after mutually attracting Viswa, Thaijasa and Pragna who are like the sons of Atma with Pranava which has been pointed out as the bull of Vedas, after making them without separate identity and finishing them in Sakshi Chaithanya and afterwards kill the darkness of ignorance using the fame of the lion.
That devotee who after saluting Virat, Hiranya Garbha and Easwara who have been joined in the horns of Pranava and uniting them in the same Paramatma principle and then saluting Narasimha as described above and make him personally present by methods like Ugra (Very angry) and Veera (great hero), would exist in the form similar to Narasimha.
Fifth Chapter
That type of practitioner would not have any desire towards worldly things, would have all his earlier desires fulfilled and would have desire only on Atma (soul). His Pranas (soul spirits) do not start and go any where and would attain their ultimate here itself in Brahmam. He exists as Brahmam and attains Brahmam. He who worships the exalted Atma in Omkara (the letter Om), attains Brahmam in the form of Narasimham.
He who meditates and venerates the ultimate God in the form of Aa, Uu and Ma, which is incomparable, which is the holy spirit, which sees every thing, which is the witness of everything, which swallows everything, which is the darling of every body, which is prior to everything and which makes everything else shine, would understand and know Para Brahma. One who knows like that would shine as God Para Brahma Narasimha.
Sixth Chapter
Devas wanted to understand this Atma (soul). The Asura qualities caught hold of them. To get rid of that effect, they worshipped Narasimha who is the Thuriya soul which is in the summit of Omkara using the Anushtup Mantra. Then the sin like Asura qualities itself became the great light of wisdom which is the prime happiness (like poison becoming medicine). Those devas became mentally calm, having their sensory organs under control, became those who were not attracted by worldly desires, became those having patience, became those whose conduct became stable, became those who were attracted by the Atma, became those who were having playfulness, unity and happiness, and became those who realized that “Om” is “light of Atma which is Para Brahmam”, and felt that all other places are empty and merged in to the “Om”. So the practitioner should do penance like devas, stabilize his mind in the Omkara Para Brahmam, and would make other people see his Atma as Para Brahmam. There is a holy stanza about this viz. “After meditating on the horns which are the different parts of Pranava and further meditating on the Thuriya Paramatma which is a horn but not a part, add the Nrusimha Raja Mantra to the different parts of Pranava." The three types of Devas(Sathvika, Rajasa and Thamasa) serve the pranava in which, the first two letters (Aa and Uu) are merged and fixed in the third letter Ma and make themselves exalted.
Seventh Chapter
Adding the first half of the Uu with the letter Aa, and making it as the form of Lord Narasimha, and then using the second half of letter Uu on Narasimha Brahma because it is macro, because it is shining, because it is famous, because it is Mahadeva (great God), because he is Maheswara (Greatest God), because it is the best Sathva (sathvic quality), because it is the greatest wisdom, because it is the greatest happiness, and because it is the greatest lord, then unite it with soul which is the meaning of the letter Ma. One who knows this, would be without a body, without sensory organs, without soul, without ignorance, with the form of Sat Chit Ananda (ever lasting bliss) and would become as one who attained salvation (one who attains Swarajya).
Therefore one has to meditate on Para Brahma with the letter Aa, cross the mind with letter Ma and search for that state where one is the witness of the mind. When one pushes out everything, then everything enters in and when he attains awakening of wisdom, then everything rises from him. Thus if one meditates, catch it, set fire and swallow, he would become Narasimha who is of the form of Atma and would establish himself in his own power. There is a holy stanza about this. Its meaning is like this: Join Aa the first letter of Pranava, with the first part of its second letter Uu, and join these together with letter Ma and merge it with Thuriya Brahma which is the meaning of Pranava and is a witness beyond the states of waking sleep and dream.
Eighth Chapter
His soul is woven completely from side to side with thuriya. This with its Narasimha form, and in which every thing pervades and which is the soul of everything, contains everything. This is the secret and is without form or seed. This soul is non dualistic and without form or seed. The word “Om” is non dualistic and is full of wisdom. (Narasimha, the soul of thuriya and the meaning of Omkara are all the same. They swallow everything). This is the unique body of Parameshwara (lord of every thing). This is without form or seed. This which does not have any form or seed, does not have differences within. The one who thinks that there is difference between them, breaks into hundred pieces and breaks in to thousand pieces and attains death from death. This is without a two, self resplendent and great joy. That soul is the ultimate support. It is Brahmam. Brahmam is the ultimate support. The one who knows this becomes Brahmam which is the ultimate support.
Ninth Chapter
Devas approached Prajapathi and requested him, “Oh God, please tell us about the Omkaratma (the letter Om which is the soul). He agreed and told them:
Atma stands behind and observes and is with you as a witness. It is lion, a form beyond thought, a form without feelings and something which can be attained from every where. There is nothing second to it, which is separate from that. It is the Atma which is ready everywhere. Due to the illusion this Atma appears as something different. From Pragna, due to the cover of ignorance, the world is produced. For the living being, Atma is the resplendent Paramatma. Because the sensory organs are not able to feel it, it is not known, even when it is known.
Prajapathi told devas, “see that Atma which is resplendent and without second, which is before you, as, “I am it and it is me”. Has it been seen?”
Devas replied, “Yes, it has been seen. It is beyond things which are known and things which are not known. Where has illusion gone now? How did illusion disappear?”
Prajapathi told them, “It is not surprising that the illusion has disappeared. Because you are all people with a wonderful form. There is nothing surprising even in that. That form of the soul is natural to you all. Understand that is the form of “Om”. You now tell me what you have understood.”
They said, “it appears as if we have understood it and also appears as if that we have not understood it. It also appears as if it is beyond all description”.
Prajapathi told them, “You have now got the knowledge about the soul”.
They told him, “Oh, God, we are seeing it but we are not seeing it, like we see other things. We do not have capacity to describe it. Oh, God salutations to you. Please shower your grace on us.”
Prajapathi told them, “If you want to know any thing more, please ask me. Ask without fear.”
They told, “This knowledge about the soul is a great blessing. Our salutations to you.”
Thus Prajapathi taught them. There is a stanza about it: “Understand that Atma which is spread everywhere by the practice of Om. Understand that, the Atma which does not have any thing which is different and which is in you as the knower, is very much within you. After understanding that stabilize there, as a witness who advises".
Om ! O Devas, may we hear with our ears what is auspicious; May we see with our eyes what is auspicious, O ye worthy of worship ! May we enjoy the term of life allotted by the Devas, Praising them with our body and limbs steady ! May the glorious Indra bless us ! May the all-knowing Sun bless us ! May Garuda, the thunderbolt for evil, bless us ! May Brihaspati grant us well-being ! Om ! Let there be Peace in me ! Let there be Peace in my environment ! Let there be Peace in the forces that act on me !
Here ends the Nrisimha Uttara Tapaniya Upanishad, as contained in the Atharva Veda.
(Part of the Atharva Veda)
Introduction:
Nrisimha Tapaniya Upanishad is presented usually as two separate Upanishads, the Narsimha Poorva and the Narsimha Uttara Tapaniya Upanishads. In this section we have presented both the Upanishads together for reader's convenience. The Nrisimha Tapaniya Upanishad speaks about the incarnation of Lord Vishnu as Narasimha, who incarnated partly as human and partly as lion to rescue Prahlada from his demonic father and save the worlds from the latter's oppression.
Interestingly it begins with a reference to Shankara rather than Vishnu and describes Lord Narasimha as Neela Lohita, the blue necked one, an epithet usually ascribed to Lord Siva. He is also described directly as Umapathi. Lord Narasimha is depicted in the Upanishad, not just as an angry god with a beastly appearance, but as the god of knowledge and the lord of Brahma.
The Poorva Tapaniya Upanishad is devoted mostly to explain the meaning of the Narasimha Mantra, referred here as the king of the mantras, and other related mantras. The Uttara Tapaniya Upanishad deals mostly with deeper spiritual aspects such as the nature of soul, the nature of human personality and different states of consciousness. The soul is described as the ever watchful lion, free from all attachments and delusion.
Translation by Shri P. R. Ramachander, reproduced with his graceful consent
Nrisimha Poorva Tapaniya Upanishad:
Om ! O Devas, may we hear with our ears what is auspicious; May we see with our eyes what is auspicious, O ye worthy of worship ! May we enjoy the term of life allotted by the Devas, Praising them with our body and limbs steady ! May the glorious Indra bless us ! May the all-knowing Sun bless us ! May Garuda, the thunderbolt for evil, bless us ! May Brihaspati grant us well-being ! Om ! Let there be Peace in me ! Let there be Peace in my environment ! Let there be Peace in the forces that act on me !
Om Shanti ! Shanti ! Shanti !
The First Upanishad
Bhagawan Narasimha who is partly human and partly lion shines as Parabrahma with Rutha (discipline of the visible world) and Sathya (basic truth). He appears with two colours viz. black and golden red. His nature is to go up and he has a very terrible and fearsome stare but he is a “Sankara” doing good to people. He is called “Neela Lohitha (He who is red and black)” because his neck is black and the top of it is red. In another of his aspects he is Umapathi (husband of Uma) and Pasupathi (Lord of all beings). He holds the bow called “Pinaka” and has great luster. He is the god of all knowledge. He is god of all beings. He is the Lord of all Vedas. He is the boss of Brahma and He is praised by Yajur Veda. One should know the praise of Sama Veda of him. Those who know that will attain the deathless state.
The Second Upanishad
Devas were afraid of death, sins and family life. They approached Praja Pathi. He told them about the Narasimha Mantra which was “the King of all Mantras” written in Anushtup meter. Because of this, they won victory over death. They won over all sins and also destroyed the problems of family life. So any of those who are afraid of death, sins and family life, should get themselves taught the “Narasimha Mantra” which is called “the King of Mantras” and which is written in anushtup meter. They all would win over death and win over sin as well problems due to family life.
The King of Mantras: (The following is a simple translation of the King of Mantras of Lord Narasimha and what follows is an explanation and justification of each description.)
My salutations to That Nrusimha,
Who is fierce,
Who is heroic,
Who is Maha Vishnu,
Who is burning,
Who has faces every where,
Who is half Lion and half Man,
Who is fearful,
Who is safe,
Who is death and deathlessness.
1.He is called “Ugra [fierce]” because by his power He creates, looks after, destroys and elevates without break and also attracts all devas, all beings, all bhoothas Hey Lord Narasimha, you who is being praised by me, please give me perennial happiness even when I am in this body which is not permanent. Let your soldiers kill all my enemies who are different from me.
2.He is called “Veera [heroic]” because by his power He makes all worlds, all devas, all beings and all boothas play, and allow them to take rest and also creates, helps them grow and attracts without any break these worlds, devas, beings and boothas. He is behind every action, very capable, mountain like and one who fulfills the desires of devas.
3.He is “Maha Vishnu”, because he pervades in all the worlds and makes all the world pervade, similar to the fatty gum that spreads in all meat, from this side to that and also from other side to this side. There is nothing in the world that is not him. He is pervading in all things in the world. He is the leader of all souls. Worship of souls is His worship. He exists in all the three shining things viz. Moon, Sun and fire.
4.He is called “Jwalantham [burning]”, because he makes the entire world which includes all devas, all beings and all Bhoothas shine because of his luster and also shines in them and makes them release flames. He is the one who created the world and makes it rapidly multiply. He is the one who shines because of his own luster and also makes others shine. He spreads heat throughout the world and makes the world swelter. He spreads his rays everywhere and makes them release rays. He has a personality which causes only good. He gives only that which is good and he is good.
5.He is called “Sarvatho Mukham [having faces everywhere]” because he sees everywhere without having any organs, he is able to hear every thing, he is able to go every where, he is able to attract everything, and also because he is spread everywhere and exists every where. In the beginning he was alone and he has become all these things now. Those who rule over the world came from him. In the end everything goes back and merges in him. I salute him who has faces every where.
6.Among all animals the most fear some and also most special is the lion. That is why God of the Universe took birth as Narasimha. That deathless form became one which does good to the entire world. That is why he is called “Narasimham [half man and half lion]”. That Maha Vishnu who has this fearsome form does not cause fear among his devotees. He is being worshipped and praised by them. He is the one who travels all over earth and also one who lives on the mountain top. In his form of Trivikrama, he measured all the worlds in three steps.
7.He is called "Bheeshanam [fear full]” because all the crowds of devas, men and Bhoothas and all the worlds run away fearing Him; but he is not afraid of anything. The wind blows because it is afraid of Him. The Sun rises above because he is afraid of Him. It is because of fear for Him, that the God of fire, Indra and the God of death do their work.
8.He is called “Bhadram [safe]’ because he is good things personified, because he forever shines giving good things, because he makes others shine, because he is superior and because he does very good things. Hey Devas, we have to hear with our ears about this “Bhadram”. Hey, those of you who are fit to be worshipped, we have to see with our eyes that “Bhadram”. Let us live as much as the Gods live with healthy organs and healthy bodies praising and singing Him.
9.He is called “Mruthyu-Mruthyum [death and deathlessness]” because just by mere thought of His devotees, he destroys death and untimely death to them. He is one who gives the knowledge of the soul and also one who gives strength. All devas bow before Him and praise Him. Let us satisfy Him by offering Him “Havis-food” through the fire sacrifice because even his shadow is nectar and he is the death which destroys death.
10.He is worshipped by the chanting of “Namami [I salute him]”, because he is being worshipped by all devas, all those who have forsaken his world and all those who swear by Brahmam and also because the lord of the Vedas worship him telling these words. Indra, Mithra (Sun), Aryama and all other devas exist in him.
11.I was born before this world which is pretty and orderly. I existed even before the devas. I am the central power of that which never dies. He who gives me (in my form as food for people) in charity, becomes the one who protects the soul. If given without understanding this, I who am food, eat the one who eats. I am the one who becomes all the world and destroys it. My light is like that of a sun, who standing alone gives light to all the world.
This Upanishad says that one who understands this attains salvation.
The Third Upanishad
The devas requested Brahma to teach them the power of Anushtup Mantra Raja (The king of Chants set to anushtup meter) and also its root. Brahma told them:
This illusion (Maya) which is the power of Narasimha (which is Om) is the one which creates everything, protects them and destroys them. Therefore you have to realize that this illusion is the power. The one who understands the power of this illusion, he crosses all sins and also attains deathlessness. He enjoys the wealth with fame. The experts in Brahmam argue among themselves whether this is short, long or extra long (Pronunciation?). One who pronounces this with short ending, will burn away all sins and would attain deathlessness. He who pronounces this in long ending, would get wealth with fame and also attain deathlessness. He who pronounces it with extra long ending would attain ethereal knowledge and also deathlessness. What follows is the explanation given by sages:
“Oh power behind EEm who is the personification of the power of illusion, please protect us. Please bless us so that we are able to cross easily in a straight forward manner this sea of birth and death. People who know you, call you also as Sreedevi, Lakshmi, Parvathy, Bhoodevi (The Goddess of Earth), Sashti Devi, Sree Vidhya and Indra Sena. Requesting you to give me long life, I submit myself to you who is the mother of all Vedas.
All the beings and things in the world were produced from the sky (Ether). All living things were made from the sky. They live in the sky. They go towards the sky and enter and disappear there. So we have to understand that the sky is the root (The root word for the sky is Ham).”
The explanation given by sages are as follows:
“That root “Ham” is the Sun God traveling in the pure sky, in “Air” in the atmosphere, in “Fire” in fire sacrifices, and exists as “Guests” in homes. That is the only one thing which is with devas and also with men. It is the truth. It is that thing which is born out of sky, water, earth, sacrificial fire and mountains. This is the great truth. The Upanishad says that “only the one who knows this knows the secret implication of the mantra”.
Fourth Upanishad
The devas approached Brahma and asked him to teach them about the branch (part) mantras of the Narasimha Mantra Raja. Brahma told them that they should know that the Pranava, Savithri, Yajur Lakshmi and Narasimha Gayathri are the four parts (Branches) of Narasimha Mantra and also that any one who knows this attains deathlessness.
1. Pranavam is nothing but “Om”
2. The Savithri Mantra which protects those who chant it is told in Yajur Veda. It has spread throughout the world. The Savithri Ashtakshara (Eight letters) consists of the two letters “Gruni”, the three letters, “Soorya” and the three letters “Aadhithya”. This is a chant which increases your stature and your wealth. Great wealth will come in search of one who knows this.
3. The Yajur Mahalakshmi Mantra is “Om Bhoor Lakshmi, Bhuvar Lakshmi, Suva Kala Karni, Thanno Lakshmi Prachodayath”. This has 24 letters. All this universe is in the form of this Gayathri. So the one who knows this Yajur Maha Lakshmi Mantra, would enjoy great wealth with lot of fame.
4. The Narasimha Gayathri is, “Om Nrusimhaya Vidhmahe Vajra Nakhaya Deemahi. Thannah Simha Prachodayath”. This is the mantra in which all the Vedas and Devas reside. The one who knows this would be the one with whom the Devas and Vedas will live forever.
The devas approached Brahma and asked him, “By chanting which Mantra, God will take great mercy on us and give us a sight of His form. Please tell us about that.” Then Brahma told them as follows:
“Om, Um, Om. Yo Vai Nirusimho Devo Bhagawan Yascha Brahma Thasmai Vo Namo Namah. Om Kram Om. Yo Vai Nrusimho Devo Bhagwan Yascha Vishnu Thasmai Vai Namo Nama. Om Veem Om. Yo Vai Nrusimho Devo Bhagwan Yascha Maheswara Thasmai Vai Namo Nama.”
[The 32 gods to whom similar mantra has to be prayed with Um-kram-Veem-Ram are Brahma, Vishnu, Maheswara Purusha, Eashwara, Saraswathi, Sree Gowri, Prakuthi, Vidhya, Omkara, Ardha mathra, Vedhaa, Panchakhya, Saptha Vyahrudaya, Loka Pala, Vasava, Rudra, Aadhithya, Ashtou Gruha, Maha Bhootha, Kaala, Manu, Mruthyu, Yama, Kandhaka, Paraana, Soorya, Soma, Virat Purusha, and Jeeva and in the end chant “Om Ham, Om, Yo Vai Nrusimho Devo Bhagawan Yascha Sarvam Tasmai Vai Namo Nama.”)
Brahma told, “If One who prays God daily using these 32 mantras, God will become greatly pleased and would appear personally. So to any one who prays Bhagawan Narasimha using these mantras, He would appear to him personally. That devotee would also see everything and attain deathlessness .Thus tells the great Upanishad.”
Fifth Upanishad
Devas approached Brahma and requested him, “Bhagawan, please tell us about the famous Chakra called Maha Chakra. The sages tell that ”It is supposed to fulfill all the wishes and is the gateway to salvation”.
Lord Brahma told them:
“Sudharshana (the holy wheel of Lord Vishnu) is that great Chakra. On its middle is written, the Taraka mantra (OM) and also the single letter of Narasimha (Kshroum), on its six petals of the Sudarshana six letters (Sahasrara Hum Phat) are written, on its eight petals the eight letters (Om Namo Narayanaya) are written, on its twelve petals is written the twelve holy letters (Om Namo Vasudevaya), on its sixteen petals, the mathruka (model) sixteen letters with their roots (Am Aam, Em, EEm…. Aha) is written and on its 32 petals are written the letters of the “Narasimha Anushtup Mantra Raja.” This is the Sudarshana Chakra, This fulfills all ones wishes and is the gateway of salvation. It is a form of Yajur Veda, Rig Veda, Sama Veda, Brahmam and Amrutha (nectar).
The one who daily chants this “Narasimha Anushtup Mantra Raja“ would be able to control fire, control wind, control Sun, control moon, control water, control all devas, control all planets and control poison.
Rig Veda tells us about this, “The devotees who practice this would be able to see Lord Vishnu in the ethereal sky, like an ordinary man is able to see the sun in the sky. The devotees who are Brahmins would be able to praise the lighted Vishnu’s form. The Upanishads tell that, this would be attained only by one who worships without any desire.”
Om ! O Devas, may we hear with our ears what is auspicious; May we see with our eyes what is auspicious, O ye worthy of worship ! May we enjoy the term of life allotted by the Devas, Praising them with our body and limbs steady ! May the glorious Indra bless us ! May the all-knowing Sun bless us ! May Garuda, the thunderbolt for evil, bless us ! May Brihaspati grant us well-being ! Om ! Let there be Peace in me ! Let there be Peace in my environment ! Let there be Peace in the forces that act on me !
Here ends the Nrisimha Poorva Tapaniyopanishad, as contained in the Atharva-Veda.
Om Shanti ! Shanti ! Shanti !
Nrisimha Uttara Tapaniya Upanishad:
Om ! O Devas, may we hear with our ears what is auspicious; May we see with our eyes what is auspicious, O ye worthy of worship ! May we enjoy the term of life allotted by the Devas, Praising them with our body and limbs steady ! May the glorious Indra bless us ! May the all-knowing Sun bless us ! May Garuda, the thunderbolt for evil, bless us ! May Brihaspati grant us well-being ! Om ! Let there be Peace in me ! Let there be Peace in my environment ! Let there be Peace in the forces that act on me !
Om Shanti ! Shanti ! Shanti !
First Chapter
Devas approached Lord Brahma and requested him, “Please teach us about the soul which is more minute than the atom and also about the letter “Om”. He said, “So be it” and what he said was:
“All this is the letter “Om”. What is past, what is present and what will be in future are its interpretations. All these are Om. All these are Brahmam. This soul also is Brahmam. Joining this Atma (soul) with the Brahmam called Om and joining together the Brahmam and the soul, and realizing that the birthless, deathless, nectar drenched and fearless Brahmam is nothing but the Om, and then putting together the three types of bodies and all these in to it and then making it our own so as to become one with that and then destroy it. Continue to meditate that Om which is the soul with the three types of bodies and also the Parabrahmam with three types of bodies. This soul which is gross and enjoys mega pleasures, which is also very minute and enjoys even the minutest pleasures and which becomes united and enjoys the pleasures of happiness, has four legs (branches).
When it is awake its feelings are gross. It enjoys gross feelings with its seven organs and 19 faces (ten sense organs, five pranas, mind, brain, sensibility and ego). Its name is,Chaturathma Viswan (on the whole) and Vaisvanaran (partly). This is its first leg.
In the state of dream, its feelings are very minute. It will enjoy this minute sense with its seven organs and nineteen faces. Its name is Chaturathma Thaijasan (on the whole) and also Hiranygarbhan (partly). This is its second leg.
Where there is no desire and also where there are no dreams, that state is called Sushupthi. In that state, one is single, personification of knowledge, having an endless form, one who enjoys happiness and steadfastly concentrates only on knowledge. His name is Chaturathma Pragnan (knower). This is the third leg (aspect). He alone is Lord of all beings, one who knows everything, one who resides in everything, one who is the root cause of everything and one where all beings which were born meet their end. These three involving Sushupthi and Swapna are only illusions. Soul is the only form which is real.
The fourth feet (aspect) of this four fold soul is Thureeya. It is something which make all others act, something which is within everything and it is the active essence beyond Jagrat (awakening), Sushupthi (sleep) and Swapna(dream). Something about it is as follows: It is without macro consciousness. It is without micro consciousness. It is without medium consciousness. It is the personification of consciousness. It is not something immobile and it is not immobile consciousness. It cannot be seen. It cannot be described. It cannot be understood. It is something without any identification. It is something which is unimaginable. It is something which cannot be pointed out. It is something which can be perceived only with the firm belief that there is only one soul. It is that aspect of Pancha Boothas (Five elements viz earth, air, fire, water and ether), where the entire universe is crashed in. It is considered as the fourth state after Shiva (peace), Santha (inner peace without any negative activity), and Advaita (the concept of non dualism). It is the soul. It is that thing which has to be understood. It is that aspect of God, which is the knowledge beyond all knowledge and is called Thuriya Thuriyam.
Second Chapter
The four branches of Brahmam, which is Shining well, is full of same essence of happiness, is never aging, is never dying, is full of nectar and which is providing protection, should be matched with the four letters (branches) of Om. The one who knows, that the Chaturathma Viswan (on the whole) and Vaiswanaran (partly) who are awake and have similarity to the four formed Aakara (letter Aa), are spread inside everything in the form of Sthoola (macro), Sookshma (micro), Bheeja (root) and Sakshi (witness) and are the first of everything, would realize all his wishes. He would be the first among every one.
The Chaturathma Thaijasan (on the whole) and Hiranya Garbhan (partly) who exist in the state of dreams are similar to the four formed letter Uu. This Uu has the form of gross, micro, root and witness. Because of its greatness and because of its double relation, the one who knows this through gross, micro, root and witness aspects would increase the tide of knowledge. He would possess equanimity along with pleasure and pain.
The Chaturathma Pragnan (on the whole) and Easwaran (partly), who are in the state of sleep, are similar to the four formed letter Ma. This letter Ma also has the forms of gross, micro, root and witness. The one who knows this in its aspect of its measurability and its capacity to hide it in itself by macro, micro, root and witness properties, would be able to measure the entire world by his wisdom and would be able to hide everything within himself.
Like this we have to pray on the stages of wakefulness, sleep and dream by the Aa, Uu, and Ma letters of Om. The fourth letter is the one which has within itself the Easwara. It is that which can rule by itself, it is itself Easwara and it has a self glitter. This soul which is the fourth, exists as known and unknown among all beings. Its light is like the Kalagni Surya (sun who is like a fire causing death) at the time of the final deluge. It gives to all, itself as soul and would make everything in to itself. Like the Sun which swallows darkness, this soul which is the unified power, exists like fire which remains detached after burning the fuel, beyond word and mind and has a holy divine form and is the Thuriya. This is the Om. It is within everything which has a name and form, and is the knowledge and the knower. Because it exists as Thuriya and has a divine form and is within everything as knowledge and the knower and is detached and formless, there are no differences within it. And so the teaching regarding this is as follows:
Because it is without syllable, it is peace (Shiva), it is the place where universe meets the end, it is indescribable, it has a non dualistic form and is placed in the fourth position, and it is “Om” itself. The soul, who understands this in this manner, would attain the soul himself.
This valorous hero would understand Thuriya using the Narsaimha Anushtup Mantra Raja. This would make the soul shine. He should deeply meditate on Brahmam as something which would destroy everything, which cannot be conquered by any one, which is everywhere, which shines for ever, which is devoid of ignorance, which is able to cut off his own bondage, which is non dual, which is personification of happiness, which is the basis for everything, which exists for ever and which is one without ignorance, passion and base qualities.
Third Chapter
Meditate deeply on Pranava (Om) in the form of Chidagni (The fire within) which is in Agni Mandala (Orbit of fire) of the Mooladhara, in the Maha Peeta (consisting of 4, 7 and 32 petal lotus) with its family of four worlds (Earth, atmosphere, heavens and moon world) and seven souls (Loka-Veda-Devatha-Gana-Chanda-Agni-Vyahruthi). Then meditate on letter Aa which is the Chaturathma (4 souls) and the Sapthathma (seven souls) as Brahma in the belly (Mani Pooraka), on letter Uu as Vishnu in the heart (Aanahatha), on letter Ma as Rudra in the middle of eyelids (Aagna), on the dot which is the happy nectar form of the soul of Omkara (Sound of Om) in Dwadasantha (just above the eyes) and the soul (Athma) in the form of sound in Shodasantha. Thus after worshipping with nectar (Ananda Amrutha) the four fold Brahmas (Devatha, Teacher, Mantra and the soul), Vishnu, Rudra separately and then together in the form of Linga with offerings and then unifying the linga forms in the Atma Jyothi (Light of the soul) and filling up the macro, micro and causal bodies with this light, we have to unify Atma Jyothi which is their basis with macro, micro, root and witness properties. Afterwards adjust the very gross Virat form in the very micro Hiranyagarbha form, and this micro form in the great causal Iswara form and after arranging the mantras similarly, and meditating on “Otha-Anuj-Jnathru-Anugna-Avikalpa” stages, and merging all this in to the Omkara (sound of Om) in Thuriya, we have to reach the Nirvikalpa Paramathma (formless great truth).
Fourth Chapter
Thus the soul should be meditated upon nine times as the Omkara form of Para Brahma with thuriya pranava sound. Using anushtup mantra as the ever happy full Atma starting with the chants “Om Ugram, Sachidananda Poorna-Prathyag-Sadathmanam, Nrusimham Pramathmanam Param Brahma Chinthayami” and ending with “Om Mruthyum Mruthyum….”. Then the same prayer nine times with Chidathmanam instead of Sadathmanam. Then the same prayer 9 times with Anandathmanam instead of Sadathmanam. Then the same prayer 9 times with Poornathmanam instead of Sadathmanam and again the same prayer with Pratyagathmanam instead of Sadathmanam. Meditating well on the five forms of Sath, Chit, Ananda, Poorna and Atma and pray with the Navathmaka mantras and then meditate on the soul using “Aham (self)”, then salute and then unite yourself with Brahmam. [Example for mantras of Namaskara (saluting) “Om Ugram Sachidananda Poorna Prathyag Sadathmanam (substitute Chidathmanam etc) Nrusimham Paramathmanam Param Brahma Aham Namami.”]
The other alternative is to pray Lord Narasimha using the Anushtup Mantra. He (Narasimha) who is God exists as a human being and also as soul of every one for all times and every where, and also as one who destroys attachments and also as God of the universe. He is the soul of Thuriya. Believing he is yourself, the one who practices yoga should meditate on the Omkara Brahmam.
He is the great sage who serves God, who establishes the lion with its fame, after mutually attracting Viswa, Thaijasa and Pragna who are like the sons of Atma with Pranava which has been pointed out as the bull of Vedas, after making them without separate identity and finishing them in Sakshi Chaithanya and afterwards kill the darkness of ignorance using the fame of the lion.
That devotee who after saluting Virat, Hiranya Garbha and Easwara who have been joined in the horns of Pranava and uniting them in the same Paramatma principle and then saluting Narasimha as described above and make him personally present by methods like Ugra (Very angry) and Veera (great hero), would exist in the form similar to Narasimha.
Fifth Chapter
That type of practitioner would not have any desire towards worldly things, would have all his earlier desires fulfilled and would have desire only on Atma (soul). His Pranas (soul spirits) do not start and go any where and would attain their ultimate here itself in Brahmam. He exists as Brahmam and attains Brahmam. He who worships the exalted Atma in Omkara (the letter Om), attains Brahmam in the form of Narasimham.
He who meditates and venerates the ultimate God in the form of Aa, Uu and Ma, which is incomparable, which is the holy spirit, which sees every thing, which is the witness of everything, which swallows everything, which is the darling of every body, which is prior to everything and which makes everything else shine, would understand and know Para Brahma. One who knows like that would shine as God Para Brahma Narasimha.
Sixth Chapter
Devas wanted to understand this Atma (soul). The Asura qualities caught hold of them. To get rid of that effect, they worshipped Narasimha who is the Thuriya soul which is in the summit of Omkara using the Anushtup Mantra. Then the sin like Asura qualities itself became the great light of wisdom which is the prime happiness (like poison becoming medicine). Those devas became mentally calm, having their sensory organs under control, became those who were not attracted by worldly desires, became those having patience, became those whose conduct became stable, became those who were attracted by the Atma, became those who were having playfulness, unity and happiness, and became those who realized that “Om” is “light of Atma which is Para Brahmam”, and felt that all other places are empty and merged in to the “Om”. So the practitioner should do penance like devas, stabilize his mind in the Omkara Para Brahmam, and would make other people see his Atma as Para Brahmam. There is a holy stanza about this viz. “After meditating on the horns which are the different parts of Pranava and further meditating on the Thuriya Paramatma which is a horn but not a part, add the Nrusimha Raja Mantra to the different parts of Pranava." The three types of Devas(Sathvika, Rajasa and Thamasa) serve the pranava in which, the first two letters (Aa and Uu) are merged and fixed in the third letter Ma and make themselves exalted.
Seventh Chapter
Adding the first half of the Uu with the letter Aa, and making it as the form of Lord Narasimha, and then using the second half of letter Uu on Narasimha Brahma because it is macro, because it is shining, because it is famous, because it is Mahadeva (great God), because he is Maheswara (Greatest God), because it is the best Sathva (sathvic quality), because it is the greatest wisdom, because it is the greatest happiness, and because it is the greatest lord, then unite it with soul which is the meaning of the letter Ma. One who knows this, would be without a body, without sensory organs, without soul, without ignorance, with the form of Sat Chit Ananda (ever lasting bliss) and would become as one who attained salvation (one who attains Swarajya).
Therefore one has to meditate on Para Brahma with the letter Aa, cross the mind with letter Ma and search for that state where one is the witness of the mind. When one pushes out everything, then everything enters in and when he attains awakening of wisdom, then everything rises from him. Thus if one meditates, catch it, set fire and swallow, he would become Narasimha who is of the form of Atma and would establish himself in his own power. There is a holy stanza about this. Its meaning is like this: Join Aa the first letter of Pranava, with the first part of its second letter Uu, and join these together with letter Ma and merge it with Thuriya Brahma which is the meaning of Pranava and is a witness beyond the states of waking sleep and dream.
Eighth Chapter
His soul is woven completely from side to side with thuriya. This with its Narasimha form, and in which every thing pervades and which is the soul of everything, contains everything. This is the secret and is without form or seed. This soul is non dualistic and without form or seed. The word “Om” is non dualistic and is full of wisdom. (Narasimha, the soul of thuriya and the meaning of Omkara are all the same. They swallow everything). This is the unique body of Parameshwara (lord of every thing). This is without form or seed. This which does not have any form or seed, does not have differences within. The one who thinks that there is difference between them, breaks into hundred pieces and breaks in to thousand pieces and attains death from death. This is without a two, self resplendent and great joy. That soul is the ultimate support. It is Brahmam. Brahmam is the ultimate support. The one who knows this becomes Brahmam which is the ultimate support.
Ninth Chapter
Devas approached Prajapathi and requested him, “Oh God, please tell us about the Omkaratma (the letter Om which is the soul). He agreed and told them:
Atma stands behind and observes and is with you as a witness. It is lion, a form beyond thought, a form without feelings and something which can be attained from every where. There is nothing second to it, which is separate from that. It is the Atma which is ready everywhere. Due to the illusion this Atma appears as something different. From Pragna, due to the cover of ignorance, the world is produced. For the living being, Atma is the resplendent Paramatma. Because the sensory organs are not able to feel it, it is not known, even when it is known.
Prajapathi told devas, “see that Atma which is resplendent and without second, which is before you, as, “I am it and it is me”. Has it been seen?”
Devas replied, “Yes, it has been seen. It is beyond things which are known and things which are not known. Where has illusion gone now? How did illusion disappear?”
Prajapathi told them, “It is not surprising that the illusion has disappeared. Because you are all people with a wonderful form. There is nothing surprising even in that. That form of the soul is natural to you all. Understand that is the form of “Om”. You now tell me what you have understood.”
They said, “it appears as if we have understood it and also appears as if that we have not understood it. It also appears as if it is beyond all description”.
Prajapathi told them, “You have now got the knowledge about the soul”.
They told him, “Oh, God, we are seeing it but we are not seeing it, like we see other things. We do not have capacity to describe it. Oh, God salutations to you. Please shower your grace on us.”
Prajapathi told them, “If you want to know any thing more, please ask me. Ask without fear.”
They told, “This knowledge about the soul is a great blessing. Our salutations to you.”
Thus Prajapathi taught them. There is a stanza about it: “Understand that Atma which is spread everywhere by the practice of Om. Understand that, the Atma which does not have any thing which is different and which is in you as the knower, is very much within you. After understanding that stabilize there, as a witness who advises".
Om ! O Devas, may we hear with our ears what is auspicious; May we see with our eyes what is auspicious, O ye worthy of worship ! May we enjoy the term of life allotted by the Devas, Praising them with our body and limbs steady ! May the glorious Indra bless us ! May the all-knowing Sun bless us ! May Garuda, the thunderbolt for evil, bless us ! May Brihaspati grant us well-being ! Om ! Let there be Peace in me ! Let there be Peace in my environment ! Let there be Peace in the forces that act on me !
Here ends the Nrisimha Uttara Tapaniya Upanishad, as contained in the Atharva Veda.
