Question

Read the given source carefully and answer the questions that follow:

Verses from the Upanishads Here are two verses from the Chhandogya Upanishad, a text composed in Sanskrit c. sixth century ВСЕ: The Nature of the Self This self of mine within the heart is smaller than paddy or barley or mustard or millet or the kernel of a seed of millet. This self of mine within the heart is greater than the earth, greater than the intermediate space, greater than heaven, greater than these worlds. The True Sacrifice This one (the wind) that blows, this is surely a sacrifice... While moving it sanctifies all this; therefore, it is indeed a sacrifice.

1. Mention the main theme of the verse. (1)
2. Mention the relationship between the self and the wind in the context of these verses. (1)
3. How does this source reflect the philosophical ideas of the Upanishads? (2)

Answer 1

1. The verse discusses the dual nature and immense greatness of the self (Atman), which is described as extremely small yet limitless, greater than the earth and the cosmos.
2. The self is presented as a spiritual essence, while the wind symbolises purity and sacredness; through its movement, the wind performs a cleansing role and is viewed as a form of sacrifice.
3. These verses focus on non-material ideas of existence and reality, highlighting the Upanishadic stress on introspection, metaphysical understanding, and the oneness of the self with the universe, in contrast to ritual-based Vedic practices.