Mundakopanishad : ( Harmful results of rituals performed wrongly ).Mantram-3.

Mundaka-Upanishad


Chapter-1.


Section-2. ( Rituals )


Mantram-3. ( Harmful  results  of  rituals  performed  wrongly )


Discussion-1. " do's  and  dont's " ....


In  this  mantram,  the  teacher  by  exhaustive  enumeration  of  all  the  minute  "do's " and  "don'ts"  is  aiming  at  the  creation  of b a  desired  effect  upon  the  disciple.

No  man  of  discrimination  with  an  awakened  intellect  would  need  a  greater  argument  to  persuade  him  to  give  up  the  "blind-ritualistic-path."

The  'Katma-s' are  limited  on  all  sides.

If  'Agnihotra' is  not  followed  by  a  strict  adherence  to  all  the  above-mentioned  subsidiary  acts  of  charity  and  kindness,  seasonal  rituals  and  self  discipline,  in  itself  can,  not  only  give  its  promised  blessing,  but  "it  shall" says  the  learned  Master  of  the  Upanishad,  " destroy  the  seven  worlds***  of  the  performer."

***  There  is  another  interpretation  that  if  performance  of  ritualistic  Karmam,  is  not  done  properly,  the  performer  cannot  attained  any  of  the  higher  Seven  worlds  viz.,  "1. Bhuh,
2.  Bhuvah,  3.  Svah,  4.  Mahah,  5.  Janah,  6.  Tapah,  and  7.  Satyam."  meaning  thereby  he  then  falls  to  lower  worlds  of  animals,  birds, insects,  worms,   plants,  etc.,........

Next :  Discussion-2. "Seven  worlds"........

To be continued  ...