What are Mahavakyas ?

Mahavakyas (महावाक्य)

Mahavakyas are the statement expressed by the Upanishads, highlighting the one’s own nature.

According to the Vedanta, the four Mahavakyas indicate the unity of the individual (Atman) with Supreme God (Brahman).

Four Mahavakyas:

  • Tat tavam asi ( तत्त्वमसि ) – The meaning of this pharse is the “You are the Brahman”. It is taken from Chandogya Upanishad 6.8.7 which is part of Sama Veda
  • Ayam atma brahma (अयम् आत्मा ब्रह्म) – The meaning of this pharse is “This Atman is Brahman”. It is taken from Mandukya Upanishad 1.2 which is part of Atharva Veda
  • Aham brahmāsmi ( अहं ब्रह्म अस्मि) – The meaning of the phrase is “I am the Brahman” , taken from Brihadaranyaka Upanishad 1.4.10 which is part of Yajur Veda.
  • Prajnanam brahma (प्रज्नानम ब्रह्म ) – The meaning of this pharse is “Atman is Brahman” taken from Aitareya Upanishad 3.3 which is part of the Rig Veda

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