Mantra 3 of Sri Isopanisad
Brief Comment on Mantra 3 of Sri Isopanisad:
Brief Comment on Mantra 3 of Sri Isopanisad:
This passage explains that as the true soul begins to diminish that it will be thrust into the lower planets, which are full of darkness and ignorance. As indicated before, humans are distinct from animals. Animals do not have the capacity for self-realization. Humans have this capacity, yet frequently refuse to use it.
As Srila Prabhupada states in his purport to this mantra, there are only two types of human beings: suras (godly persons) and asuras (demons). Humans who recognize their duty and work in the spirit of fulfilling that duty are suras. These individuals devote themselves to the service of Sri Krishna out of love. Their actions are akarma, and they seek self-realization which will lead to liberation in Krishnaloka.
On the other hand, asuras are those who neglect these duties either out of malice or ignorance. The human being has so many wonderful facilities at his disposal, yet the vast majority of humans live lives very similar to the animals. They work hard to attain food and other material needs, yet refuse to work hard for self-realization and liberation. The Sri Isapanisad and Bhagavad-Gita are very clear on the role and responsibilities of man, as well as the results of these choices.
"If man fails to discharge his duties as a human being, he is forced to transmigrate to the asurya planets and take birth in degraded species of life to work hard in ignorance and darkness." (p.31)
However, a person who begins the path of self-realization will be transported to Krishnaloka where there will be no more rebirths, nor the suffering that goes along with it. Even if one begins the path and does not finish it in a single lifetime, they are rewarded for their attempt by birth into a family of spiritually advanced brahmana, or a vaisya (merchant). These advanced states will afford one a better opportunity to attain transmigration in that next life.
The conclusion is clear, but the choice is personal.
Replies
A very nice synopsis, so simple yet rational and complete. From the complete Whole, an infinitesimal complete, bearing the same pure qualities, representing the Original, is seen in this boiled down milk