Customer Reviews

The Upanishads, 1st US Edition

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The 18 verses of Isha Upanishad, which also appear in the Veda, were most dear to Sri Aurobindo in the sense that he has attempted several commentaries upon them in order to break free from the anomalies occuring in the received interpretations. In the process, he has audaciously ventured to disagree with many venerated masters and philosophical doctrines. Now that all these commentaries are available in one single volume, one should relish the delightful arguments and illumining explanations.

It is important to know that, out of the repeated revision of these commentaries was born, 'The Life Divine', by far, the greatest philosophical work to date. His shorter commentary on the Kena Upanishad deals with epistemological issues while that on Isha takes up the ontological aspects. These works are much more accessible than the sophisticated idiom of 'The Life Divine', and, in fact, serve as guide-books.

Having completed 51 pages of this 466 page work I suggest that this tranaslation, analysis and commentary of Upanishads, by Sri Aurobindo is the what to read if anything for those on the paths of knowledge and devotion. Don't go any further. If it be upon my suggestion that you read anything, read this first.

If it is illumination of this great work that you seek, let Sri Aurobindo be your guide.

May you find your way.

Clarence

This review is limited to the translation only, and on that I must disagree with the other reviewers. The translation, as I understand it by Aurobindo himself, is nearly impenetrable. The syntax and grammar, sentence arrangement and choice of vocablulary are confusing and do not effectively convey the meaning of the text. This became sharply apparent when I read another translation and the profound beauty of the text came through. Try the Juan Mascaro version.

I have not come across any better translation better than this. Anyone interested in the Upanishads... look no further. This one is a polished version of an earlier edition.

Excellent book. Came in a great shape and surely is a great source of inspiration.

There are few who can compare with Sri Aurobindo Ghose. His erudition is only surpassed by his realization. A wordsmith of the highest order, who can bring to light and clarity the often confusing and veiled jargon of the ancient Rishis. His commentaries on the Upanishads opens vistas of thought that allow the earnest and informed seeker the opportunity to sit at the feet of a modern master-sage.

The language is, the far, the clearest that I have come across compared to translations by other authors. Sri Aurobindo has also shown the Sanskrit text with his English translation---no author would do such a thing unless he/she is confident of doing a good work at the translation.

Strongly recommended and my gratitude to the author for his good work and effort.