The essence of Purushottama Yoga
In Chapter 15 of BhagavadGita, Lord Krishna describes the nature of physical reality by the illustration of Asvattha (Peepul) tree. It epitomizes the profound teachings of Purushottama Yoga. The upside-down tree described in this chapter (also expressed in Rigveda I.164.20-23) represents the material world where human priorities are upside down, hence we must seek detachment from the material world with objectivity and understand the nature of consciousness through reevaluation of priorities in material world. The results of actions of those who perform their duties, and those who tread the path of knowledge are at Krishna’s disposal. Therefore, those who worship Him through yoga of devotion (practicing bhakti yoga) that leads to acuity and perspicuity through knowledge (practicing jnana yoga.) Such a person would have transcended the gunas of material life (constituents of Prakriti) and find liberation through the grace of Krishna. This is the way one gains knowledge of the Absolute, the Immutable and immortal Brahman. One enters the realm of eternity and imperishability from perishable reality. The Lord affirms that the knower of all Vedas is omniscient and understands the futility of cycle of birth and death. This metaphysical wisdom is also reflected in Katha Upanishad II.6.1-4.
Krishna imparts the knowledge to comprehend the interplay of matter, consciousness and the Supreme Spirit. One would identify that material manifestations are ephemeral and souls identifying with them are fallible. But liberated souls are enlightened and become infallible. This is the Yoga of the Supreme Spirit. This philosophical sapience is also cogitated in Mundaka Upanishad 2.1.2, that defines three levels of existence, temporal (ksara), the eternal (akshara), and the Supreme Being; the latter also known in the Vedas as, Paramatma, Purushottama, Absolute Reality, Pure Consciousness, and God Almighty.
The author articulates the spiritual elements of Purushottama Yoga and makes some interesting connections with quantum reality. There are chapters entitled; State of Consciousness, Theory of Everything, Momentum, Planes of Reality, etc. Each verse of Chapter 15 of BhagavadGita is translated into English and interpreted. The book is largely focused on ecclesiastical aspects with reference to shastras.
