Pada 3 examines subtler and more symbolic Upanishadic expressions that may seem ambiguous. Its purpose is to establish that terms such as heaven, Bhūma, Akshara, the small space in the heart, light, and the sleeper all ultimately refer to Brahman, not to physical elements, deities, or the individual soul.
The pada begins with cosmic expressions like heaven, earth, and the infinite fullness called Bhūma. The sutras explain that these are not references to the visible universe alone, but to Brahman as the boundless reality that supports and transcends all realms. Terms like Akshara, the Imperishable, are likewise interpreted as the unchanging Absolute beyond all decay.
A central section is the Dahara Vidyā, the teaching of the small space within the heart. Although described as tiny, this inner space is said to contain heaven, earth, the sun, the moon, and all beings. The sutras resolve this paradox by explaining that the heart-space is a meditative symbol for Brahman—the infinite reality appearing as inward consciousness. The seeker is thus led from the finite sense of self toward the limitless absolute.
The later discussions move through symbols such as light, vibration, sleep, and departure from the body. These are shown not as isolated psychological or cosmic events but as revelations of Brahman’s presence in every mode of existence—waking, dream, deep sleep, and transcendence. Even the stillness of deep sleep becomes evidence of the self’s grounding in Brahman.
Overall, Pada 3 deepens the mystical dimension of Samanvaya by teaching that Brahman is hidden within the most subtle symbols of scripture and the most intimate spaces of consciousness. The cosmos above and the cave of the heart within are revealed as two doors to the same non-dual reality.
Overall, Pada 2 deepens the harmonising work of the first chapter by proving that both inward mystical symbols and outward cosmic forms consistently reveal the same Brahman. The many sacred images and meditations of the Upanishads are shown to resolve into one non-dual reality that shines within the heart and throughout the universe.
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