The Upanishads A One-Volume Abridgement Translated and Edited by Swami Nikhilananda

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Although the Upanishads are by far the oldest outpourings of the mystical consciousness of man they have remained unequaled by any rival ancient or modern in profundity splendor and purity. Though historically the products of India and of a particular age they are in essence ageless and universal. This abridged edition of the monumental four volume work translated by Swami Nikhiilananda contains excerpts from the Katha, Isha, Kena, Mundaka, Shvetashvatara, Prashna, Mandukya, Aitareya, Brihadaranyaka, Taittiriya and Chandogya Upanishads. The translation is faithful and graceful and the exposition authentic instructive and attractive. Included is a comprehensive glossary that addresses the Sanskrit terms contained in this volume, providing a variety of meaning for each word when appropriate. By comparison, the Swami Prabhavananda translation Breath of the Eternal 087481040X offers the same scriptures but is more deeply edited with an emphasis on clear easy reading and few footnotes. Both editions are excellent but may appeal to different audiences.