उद्दालक
Uddalaka Aruni was a highly learned Rishi and a famous teacher of the Vedas and scriptures. He had a daughter, Sujata, and a younger son, Shwetaketu. Uddalaka gave Sujata in marriage to his disciple Kahoda, and they had a son, Ashtavakra. Kahoda was defeated in a debate by Bandy at King Janaka’s court and was drowned in the river. Ashtavakra, raised by Uddalaka, later avenged his father by defeating Bandy. In the Chandogya Upanishad, Uddalaka teaches Shwetaketu the profound doctrine of Brahman, with the famous phrase “Tat Tvam Asi” (“Thou art that”).
Connection to Other Entities and Stories:
Character | Relation to Uddalaka | Role in Mythology |
---|---|---|
Shwetaketu | Son | Central figure in the Chandogya Upanishad, taught the concept of Brahman by Uddalaka |
Sujata | Daughter | Married Uddalaka’s disciple Kahoda; mother of Ashtavakra |
Ashtavakra | Grandson | Defeated Bandy in scholarly debate to avenge his father, Kahoda |
Kahoda | Son-in-law | Uddalaka’s disciple; drowned after losing a debate at King Janaka’s court |
Themes in the Story:
- Vedic Knowledge and Tradition: Uddalaka’s role as a teacher and sage highlights the importance of knowledge transmission, not only to his family but also to his disciples.
- Concept of Brahman: Uddalaka’s conversation with Shwetaketu, where he expounds the doctrine of Brahman (the ultimate reality) through the phrase “Tat Tvam Asi” (“Thou art that”), is one of the most profound teachings in Hindu philosophy.
- Revenge and Redemption: Ashtavakra’s story illustrates the theme of redemption through intellectual triumph, as he restores his father’s honor by defeating Bandy in debate and discovering that his father is alive.
Uddalaka’s life story and teachings weave together themes of spiritual wisdom, lineage, and the significance of self-knowledge in Hindu philosophy.