“Yatha pinde Tatha brahmande.”
Space exploration is great! Science and technology has allowed mankind in the modern age to go beyond surface explorations to include other planets and multiple trips to the moon. However, the insistence by nations and peoples to explore the outer realms of the universe for possibilities, be it of life on other planets, acquirable and usable energy sources or simply expanding the knowledge base, has led to, unfortunately, a shift in trajectory that negates the importance of inner exploration.
The Sanskrit phrase taken from the Yajur Veda states, “Yatha pinde Tatha brahmande” and loosely translates to “As is the individual, so is the Universe; As is the Universe, so is the Individual.” The insistence on an inner focus and exploration has always been the sole principle of Hinduism. One of the most unique concepts found within Hinduism is the belief that the entire universe, in fact everything that exists outside our bodies also exists inside our bodies too (in both a figurative and a literal sense). The reason why this is believed is because the Vedic conception of the universe is comparable to that of a fractal. A fractal is known for its self-repeating nature and the universe as described in the Vedas is mentioned as having the same patterns reproduced in all levels of the cosmos. Thus, the Upanishads boldly declare, “Whatever is in the macrocosm is also in the microcosm.” The microcosm is oneself and the macrocosm is the universe. The macrocosm is as the microcosm and vice versa; within each, is the other and through understanding one (usually the microcosm), you can understand the other. The jiva (individual soul) is nothing but a kind of mirror of the universal soul (Brahman) – each individual soul contains the cosmos as a whole.
The knowledge that our sages and rishis have acquired has been as a result of inner exploration. Our concepts, rules, formulas and technological possibilities have all been realised through years of meditation and knowing the universe by knowing “oneself”. The Vedas, Upanishads and sacred texts are overflowing with knowledge and information that scientists are using as guides in knowing our universe. In light of Indian Arrival Day and the contributions of our ancestors, it is imperative to understand and appreciate the sacrifices and immense wealth of knowledge that has stemmed from India. This has only been possible through the practices of meditation, yoga and mantra jaap. These practices should be included in our daily routines as we navigate through our lives, appreciating the cherished contributions of our ancestors in the past for achieving greater successes in the future.
By Pundit Varistha Persad, BA (Hons.)
