Vedas 9 - The Cream Of Vedic Philosophy Poem by Geeta Radhakrishna Menon

The lofty philosophical thoughts
That began flowing like a little rivulet with
The ‘Mantras'- Hymns addressed to Gods and Goddesses,
Then, the ‘Samhitas'-A collection of Mantras, further
Traced its way to meaningful rivers of progress,
Transporting and flowing with strength towards the ‘Aranyakas',
Turning its course, in a bid to reach a higher goal in life, from
Theistic ritualistic actions of ‘karmakanda'
To the deep philosophical thinking of ‘Jnanakanda', finally,
To join the vast ocean of knowledge and wisdom.

In this journey of finding, searching and seeking,
It is better to ‘let go off' the ‘karma' of rituals and sacrifices,
Intending only to focus on the ‘Jnana' or pure knowledge,
Intense knowledge that will set us thinking, contemplating,
Inspiring knowledge that will lead us towards enlightenment.

I bow with deep reverence to the Omniscient Almighty,
To begin a journey towards the light of knowledge
In an attempt to drive away the darkness of ignorance,
To study, imbibe and focus on the brighter to the brightest,
The cream of Vedic Philosophy -The Upanishads!