PERHAPS IT IS NOT a mere coincidence that concurrent with the study of this text, we are also studying the Mundaka Upanishad (Text 29). In the latter, the very same topic is taken up at the outset. The Para and Apara Vidya are discussed at greater length than in this text. In particular, Sri Shankaracharyaji’s Bhashya on the Mundaka Upanishad expands greatly on the entire topic. Thus we will only present the gist of the class discussion.
2 Shabda Brahma is the Apara Vidya or lower knowledge, i.e. it is based on ‘words’. It is the whole conglomerate of secular sciences which serves the Supreme Knowledge. Everything written or spoken about Brahman falls under Apara Vidya. The Para Vidya is the higher knowledge which is indicated by the words or the sound of Om. It is the subtle essence of what is being described through the words.
3 As in Mundaka Upanishad, the lower knowledge is considered as a basis from which one can launch one’s search for the higher knowledge. The lower is not seen with contempt or disdain. It is appreciated for the experience it gives one in fully grasping the unreal nature of this world. ‘An adept’ here means one who has mastered the material sciences, discovered their limitations, and now thirsts for the higher, more permanent form of knowledge. Apara Vidya has another specific meaning. It could refer to the earlier preparatory forms of Sadhana such as the Karmas and Upasanas prescribed in the Vedas. These serve the purpose of purifying the seeker and preparing him for the higher. 4 When one is convinced of the ultimate shortcoming of the lower knowledge, he gets the required motivation to aspire for the higher knowledge of the Self directly. In the Mundaka Upanishad the same approach is taken where the higher is seen as “that knowledge by which all else is known.” The Apara Vidya is taken up first in the next verse.
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