In the first module, we will introduce the concept of an Upaniṣad, and begin reading from chapter 6 of the Chāndogya Upaniṣad. The story follows Śvetaketu, Uddālaka’s son, who has returned from learning with his guru. His father asks, have you learned that knowledge by which everything becomes known? Śvetaketu is at a loss. We will discover the nature of that knowledge from Uddālaka.

In this module, we will discover the nature of that knowledge by which, according to Uddālaka, everything else becomes known. We will encounter and try to unpack the famous mahāvākya (great statement) “tat tvam asi,” which means “you are that.” This will conclude the Chāndogya Upaniṣad.

We will begin reading the Kaṭha Upaniṣad, which follows a dialogue between the precocious child Naciketas and the Lord of Death, King Yama himself. Yama begins to explain the nature of death and what happens after death to young Naciketas.

King Yama explains the relationship between the self and the outside world, as well as the relationship between the self and brahman, the supreme immortal self. He explains how one should see oneself and the world if one wishes for immortality and eternal happiness.

In this module, we will begin reading the Kena Upaniṣad, which follows a dialogue between a teacher and a student seeking to learn about the inner power by which all of our faculties are enlivened. By what power does my mind alight on its objects? By what power do I take my first breath? By what will do I speak words? What power unites my senses with their objects? These difficult questions begin the Upaniṣad, followed by an equally enigmatic response by the teacher.

In the final module, we will conclude the Kena Upaniṣad, as well as the course. We will discuss Upaniṣadic perspectives on the meaning of life, as well as their role in delivering that meaning.