top of page

Exploring Nirvana Shatakam: Part Two

Writer's picture: Vimida DasVimida Das

Updated: Nov 22, 2023

Introduction:

The essence of Vedantic philosophy encapsulated in the profound verses of the Nirvana Shatakam invites us into a realm of self-realization and transcendence. This sacred hymn, composed by Adi Shankaracharya, delves into the depths of human existence, unraveling layers of identity beyond the physical realm. Each verse unfolds a deeper understanding, guiding us to comprehend the boundless nature of consciousness and the illusion of worldly attachments. Part 2 of this exploration elucidates the intricate meanings within the verses, unveiling the significance of concepts like Prana, Pancha Vayu, Sapta Dhatu, Pancha Kosha, Nadis, and Karmendriyas.

Decoding the Second Stanza: 


"na cha prāṇa saṁjño na vai pañcha vāyuḥ
na vā sapta dhātur na vā pañcha kośāḥ
na vāk pāṇi pādaṁ na chopastha pāyu
chidānandarūpaḥ śivō'ham śivō'ham"

Translation:


“I am not the vital breath (prana) nor the five vital airs (pancha vayu),

I am not the seven elements of the body (sapta dhatu) nor the five sheaths (pancha kosha).

I am neither the organs of action (vak, pani, padam, upastha, payu),

I am the embodiment of knowledge and bliss, I am Shiva, I am Shiva."

Exploring the  Meaning:

What is prana?

Prana, in various Eastern philosophical and spiritual traditions, refers to the vital life force or energy that permeates the universe. In Hindu philosophy, specifically within yoga and Ayurveda, Prana is considered the vital energy responsible for sustaining life on all levels—physical, mental, and spiritual. 

Prana is believed to flow through a network of subtle channels (nadis) in the body, and its balance and proper flow are essential for good health and well-being. It's associated not only with breath and respiration but also with the movement of energy within the body, including circulation, digestion, and the functioning of the nervous system.

Different types of Prana are associated with specific functions within the body, such as the movement of breath (Apana), the energy governing circulation (Vyana), the energy for digestion and assimilation (Samana), among others. We can relate it to Wind coming with Water and Fire elements for better understanding.

Practices like yoga, pranayama (breath control), and meditation are aimed at regulating and enhancing the flow of Prana for physical health and spiritual growth.


What is Pancha Vayu?

"Pancha Vayu" refers to the five vital airs or aspects of Prana in the body according to yogic and Ayurvedic teachings. These are different manifestations or subdivisions of the life-sustaining energy known as Prana. Each Vayu has specific functions and influences various physiological processes:

Prana Vayu: 

  • Governs the intake of breath and is associated with the inhalation process. It's related to the chest region. Prana Vayu is also linked to mental processes and vitality

Apana Vayu: 

  • Manages the elimination processes in the body, including excretion through urine, feces, and sweat. It governs downward and outward movements and resides in the lower abdomen and pelvic region.

Vyana Vayu: 

  • Responsible for the circulation of Prana throughout the body. It coordinates and harmonizes all bodily functions, ensuring a balanced distribution of energy among different organs and systems.

Udana Vayu

  • Controls upward and outward movements, including speech, sneezing, and the overall upward energy flow in the body. Udana Vayu operates in the throat region and influences actions that involve upward movement or expression. Udana Vayu is the force responsible, at the time of death, for carrying the subtle body out of the physical body.

Samana Vayu: 

  • Manages digestion and assimilation, ensuring the proper breakdown and absorption of nutrients from food. It operates in the region of the abdomen and helps maintain digestive fire (Agni).

Balancing and regulating these five Vayus are crucial for overall well-being, as disturbances or imbalances in their functioning can lead to various physical and mental health issues. Practices like yoga, pranayama, meditation, and Ayurveda aim to harmonize and optimize the flow of these Vayus to maintain health and vitality.


What the sentence implies: 

The phrase "I am not the vital breath (prana) nor the five vital airs (pancha vayu)" from the shloka emphasizes a deep philosophical concept about the nature of self or consciousness.

Here, "I" refers to the true self or consciousness that transcends the physical body and its functions. It suggests that the essence of one's being isn't limited to or defined by the physiological processes or vital energies associated with the body.

The assertion "I am not the vital breath (prana)" implies that the true self isn't merely confined to the act of breathing or the life force associated with respiration. It signifies detachment from the physiological function of inhaling and exhaling.

Similarly, "nor the five vital airs (pancha vayu)" extends this idea further by stating that the essence of self isn't identified with the various aspects of vital energies (Prana, Apana, Vyana, Udana, Samana) that regulate bodily functions like circulation, digestion, and elimination.

In essence, this part of the shloka negates the identification of the true self with the physiological processes and vital energies operating within the body, suggesting that the self transcends these bodily functions and energies. It emphasizes a deeper, transcendent understanding of the self beyond the physical realm.


What are sapta dhātur?

"Sapta Dhatus" refers to the seven essential components or tissues in the human body according to Ayurvedic medicine. These seven dhatus are the fundamental building blocks that contribute to the structure and functioning of the body:


Rasa Dhatu:

  • Plasma or the primary nutrient fluid derived from the digestion of food.

Rakta Dhatu: 

  • Blood, responsible for nourishing all body tissues and organs.

Mamsa Dhatu: 

  • Muscles or flesh, providing structural support and movement.

Meda Dhatu: 

  • Fat tissue, offering insulation, energy storage, and cushioning.

Asthi Dhatu

  • Bones, the framework providing support and protection.

Majja Dhatu

  • Marrow, found in bones, responsible for producing blood cells and providing nourishment.

Sukra/Shukra Dhatu

  • Reproductive tissue or semen in males and the equivalent in females.

These dhatus are interconnected and support each other in maintaining the body's overall health and functioning. We can relate it to Earth coming with Fire and Water elements for clarity. Ayurveda emphasizes the balance and nourishment of these dhatus for optimal well-being.


What are pañcha kośāḥ?

“Pañcha Koshas" refers to the concept of the five sheaths or layers that encapsulate the human existence according to Vedantic philosophy.   We can relate it to the Space elements to understand better. These sheaths represent different levels or coverings of the self, ranging from the gross physical body to subtler aspects of existence:

Annamaya Kosha: 

  • The outermost sheath, representing the physical body or the material aspect. It consists of the physical matter derived from food (Anna). This sheath encompasses the physical organs, bones, muscles, and the entire bodily structure.

Pranamaya Kosha

  • The Pranamaya Kosha, one of the five sheaths according to Vedantic philosophy, encompasses the layer of vital energy or the life force within an individual. Here's a more detailed exploration of Pranamaya Kosha:

Vital Energy and Functions:

 Pranamaya Kosha is associated with the flow and regulation of Prana, the vital life force that sustains the body. It governs various physiological functions such as respiration, circulation, digestion, and the overall vitality of the body.

Subtle Energy System: 

Within this sheath, the Prana or life force is said to flow through subtle energy channels called nadis. These nadis serve as pathways for the movement of energy, and the harmonious flow of Prana through these channels is considered crucial for physical and mental well-being.

Nadis:

In yogic and Ayurvedic traditions, nadis refer to the subtle energy channels through which Prana, the life force, flows in the body. Here are some key points about nadis:

Subtle Energy Pathways:

  • Nadis are described as channels or pathways that carry Prana throughout the body, similar to how blood vessels carry blood. However, nadis are part of the subtle body, not the physical body.

Unseen Channels:

They are considered subtle and are not physically visible or tangible. They exist on a more energetic or spiritual level, functioning beyond the scope of the physical body's anatomy.

Three Primary Nadis:

Among the thousands of nadis described in ancient texts, three primary nadis are most emphasized:

  • Ida: Associated with the left side of the body, feminine energy, and the moon. It is said to be cooling and calming, governing mental processes and emotions.

  • Pingala: Linked to the right side of the body, masculine energy, and the sun. It is considered heating and energizing, responsible for vitality and physical processes.

  • Sushumna: The central channel, considered the main pathway for the flow of Prana. It runs along the spine from the base (Muladhara Chakra) to the crown of the head (Sahasrara Chakra). Awakening the Sushumna is associated with spiritual awakening and higher states of consciousness.

  • Chakra Activation: Nadis intersect and converge at various points in the body, forming energy centers known as chakras. The flow of Prana through nadis affects the balance and activation of these chakras, influencing physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of an individual's well-being.

  • Balancing Prana: Practices like yoga, pranayama (breath control), meditation, and certain energy-based practices aim to purify and balance the nadis, ensuring a smooth and harmonious flow of Prana. This balance is believed to contribute to overall health and spiritual development.

Nadis are fundamental to the understanding of subtle energy systems in yoga and Ayurveda, playing a significant role in the regulation of Prana and the holistic well-being of an individual.


Breath and Prana: 

Pranamaya Kosha is intricately linked to breath and the different aspects of Prana that are essential for the body's functioning. Practices like pranayama (breath control) aim to regulate and balance the flow of Prana within this sheath, thereby impacting overall health and vitality.

Energy Circuits and Chakras: 

This sheath is also associated with the chakras, which are energy centers in the body. Pranamaya Kosha involves the coordination and balance of these energy centers, influencing physical, mental, and emotional states.

Chakras, in various spiritual and yogic traditions, are described as energy centers within the subtle body that correspond to specific points along the spine. Here's an overview:

Location and Alignment: 

There are generally seven primary chakras aligned along the spine, starting from the base and ascending to the crown of the head:

Muladhara (Root Chakra)

Located at the base of the spine, associated with survival, security, and basic needs.

Svadhisthana (Sacral Chakra)

Positioned in the lower abdomen, linked to creativity, pleasure, and emotional balance.

Manipura (Solar Plexus Chakra): 

Found in the upper abdomen, associated with personal power, self-esteem, and confidence.

Anahata (Heart Chakra): 

Located in the center of the chest, connected to love, compassion, and relationships.

Vishuddha (Throat Chakra): 

Positioned at the throat, related to communication, expression, and authenticity.

Ajna (Third Eye Chakra): 

Between the eyebrows, associated with intuition, insight, and higher consciousness.

Sahasrara (Crown Chakra):

 Located at the crown of the head, linked to spiritual connection, enlightenment, and transcendence.

Energetic Significance:

Each chakra is believed to correspond to specific physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects. They are associated with nerve centers, organs, emotions, and psychological states, as well as the flow of subtle energy (Prana) through the body.

Balancing and Activation: 
  • The balance and harmonization of these chakras are considered crucial for overall well-being. Practices such as yoga, meditation, breathwork, visualization, and specific energy-based techniques aim to cleanse, balance, and activate these energy centers.

Blockages and Healing
  • Imbalances or blockages in chakras are believed to manifest as physical ailments, emotional disturbances, or spiritual disconnection. Various healing modalities focus on clearing blockages and restoring balance to promote health and vitality on all levels.

Symbolic Representations
  • Chakras are often depicted as spinning wheels or lotus flowers, each associated with specific colors, elements, sounds, and psychological attributes, symbolizing their unique qualities and energies.


Understanding and working with the chakras are integral to many spiritual and holistic practices, aiming to promote physical health, emotional balance, mental clarity, and spiritual growth by aligning and balancing these energy centers within the body.

Manomaya Kosha: 
  • The mental sheath, comprising the mind, emotions, thoughts, and sensory perceptions. It represents the layer of experiences, desires, and psychological aspects.

Vijnanamaya Kosha: 
  • The sheath of intellect or wisdom. It involves the higher functions of the mind, including reasoning, discernment, and intellect. This sheath reflects the deeper understanding and consciousness.

Anandamaya Kosha
  • The bliss sheath or the innermost covering. It signifies the aspect of pure joy, contentment, and fulfillment. It is associated with the experience of profound peace and happiness derived from a connection with the inner self.

These Koshas represent the layers of human existence, each subtler than the previous one, and understanding them helps in exploring the depth and complexity of human consciousness and existence.

Each Kosha, while representing different layers of human existence according to Vedantic philosophy, is associated with its own limitations or constraints:

Annamaya Kosha (Physical Sheath):
  • Limitation: It pertains primarily to the physical body and is subject to physical ailments, aging, and mortality. Its limitations include susceptibility to diseases, injuries, and the eventual decay of the body over time.

Pranamaya Kosha (Vital Energy Sheath):
  • Limitation: This sheath governs vital energy and is constrained by fluctuations in energy levels. Imbalances or blockages in Prana can lead to fatigue, lack of vitality, and disruptions in bodily functions.

Manomaya Kosha (Mental Sheath):
  • Limitation: Associated with thoughts, emotions, and mental faculties, this sheath is limited by fluctuations in emotions, mental disturbances, and the influence of external stimuli. It can lead to anxiety, stress, and psychological challenges.

Vijnanamaya Kosha (Intellectual Sheath):
  • Limitation: Despite representing higher intellect and wisdom, this sheath may be limited by the boundaries of intellectual understanding. It might struggle to comprehend deeper spiritual truths or realities beyond rational comprehension.

Anandamaya Kosha (Bliss Sheath):
  • Limitation: Although representing the blissful aspect of existence, this sheath may be limited by temporary experiences of joy or happiness. It might not provide a sustained and perpetual state of bliss due to external circumstances or fluctuations in emotional states.


How is Anandamaya Kosha not the Ananda in Chidananda?

In the context of Vedantic philosophy, "Anandamaya Kosha" represents the sheath or layer associated with bliss or joy within the framework of human existence. It is one of the five Koshas, encapsulating the blissful aspect of the self.

On the other hand, in the phrase "Chidananda," which translates to "consciousness-bliss," the term "Ananda" refers to bliss or joy, while "Chid" signifies consciousness or awareness.

The distinction lies in their contexts:

Anandamaya Kosha (Bliss Sheath):

Represents the layer of bliss or joy within the framework of the self, considered as one of the five layers enveloping human existence. It embodies the experiences of happiness or joy within the individual.

Chidananda (Consciousness-Bliss):

This term represents the inherent nature of the ultimate reality or the divine. It signifies the state where consciousness or awareness merges with absolute bliss, representing the inherent nature of the supreme consciousness.


While "Anandamaya Kosha" represents a layer of bliss within the individual's existence and experiences, "Chidananda" represents the essential nature of absolute consciousness being inseparable from bliss or joy. They differ in their contexts and the levels of reality they signify—individual existence versus the ultimate reality or the divine consciousness.


What the sentence implies: 

The phrase "I am not the seven features of the body (sapta dhatu) nor the five sheaths (pancha kosha)" refers to a fundamental concept in Vedantic philosophy where the true essence of the self or consciousness transcends identification with the physical body and it.

The shloka aims to convey that the true self or consciousness is not confined or defined by the physical body and its constituents (the elements) nor by the layers or coverings that envelop human existence (the sheaths). It emphasizes a deeper understanding that the essence of the self transcends the limitations of the physical and conceptual aspects associated with the body, leading to a realization of a more profound, unbounded sense of identity.


Understanding Karmendriyas

The organs mentioned in the phrase "na vāk pāṇi pādaṁ na chopastha pāyu" are termed as "organs of action" because they are directly involved in performing physical actions or functions within the external world. These organs, known as Karmendriyas in Vedantic philosophy, facilitate various activities and engagements with the environment:

  • Vāk (Speech):

 The organ of speech responsible for verbal communication.

  • Pāṇi (Hands): 

The hands, representing the organ for grasping, holding, and manipulation.

  • Pādaṁ (Feet): 

Refers to the feet, representing the organ of locomotion and movement.

  • Upastha (Genital Organ): 

Represents the reproductive organ, associated with procreation and sexual function.

  • Pāyu (Excretory Organ): 

Refers to the organ responsible for excretion or elimination.


What the sentence implies: 


  • The assertion "na vāk pāṇi pādaṁ na chopastha pāyu" signifies the detachment of the true self from identification solely with these organs of action. It implies that the essence of the self or consciousness is beyond these bodily functions and actions.

  • Transcendence of Limitations: This phrase highlights the understanding that the true self is not limited or defined by the functionalities or actions performed by these organs. It emphasizes a realization that goes beyond mere identification with the physical actions or bodily functions.

  • Spiritual Significance: It points towards the deeper realization of the self as distinct from the physical body and its functionalities. By stating "I am not these organs of action," it prompts the recognition of a deeper, unbounded aspect of identity that transcends the physical realm and its limitations.

Conclusion:


The Nirvana Shatakam echoes the timeless wisdom of Vedanta, beckoning us to contemplate the essence of our existence. Through negation and detachment from bodily identifications, it guides us toward self-realization beyond the confines of the physical form. Part 2 of this exploration journeys through the depths of these verses, shedding light on the subtleties of Prana, the complexities of Pancha Vayu, the constituents of Sapta Dhatu, the layers of Pancha Kosha, the intricacies of Nadis, and the understanding of Karmendriyas. As we grasp these profound teachings, we embark on a transformative path, seeking the ultimate truth that transcends the limitations of the material world, leading us closer to the eternal bliss of self-realization and oneness with the divine.



Comments


bottom of page