The Forest Meditations of the Aranyakas
700-600 BC
A smaller group of shruti texts called the Aranyakas are continuations of the Brahmanas. They contain spiritual interpretations of Vedic rituals and focus more on meditation. Aranyaka means “belonging to the forest.” These writings were directed toward forest dwellers – spiritual ascetics who had reclused themselves to live and meditate away from worldly distractions. The Aranyakas were to be studied only by the initiated as the information they reveal were believed not suitable for ordinary villagers. They discuss philosophy, the deeper meanings of sacrificial rites, and the New Year holiday.
Study Guide Questions and Personal Reflections
- Have you spent time in forest? What do you experience such an environment? How often should one go to the forest? Is it possible to stay in the forest for a long time?
- What yogic information or techniques are not suitable for ordinary folk? Why?
Vocabulary
- Aranyaka