An “Upanisad” is a teaching session with a guru, and the thirteen texts of the “Principal Upanisads”—which comprise this volume—form a series of philosophical discourses between teacher and student that question the inner meaning of the world. Composed beginning around the eighth century BCE, the Upanisads have been central to the development of Hinduism, exploring its central doctrines: rebirth, karma, overcoming death, and achieving detachment, equilibrium, and spiritual bliss. Speaking to the reader in direct, unadorned prose or lucid verse, the Upanisads collected here embody humanity’s perennial search for truth and knowledge. Valerie Roebuck’s powerful new translation blends accuracy with readability and retains the oral style of these stirring and profound philosophical explorations.

Why You Should Read the Principal Upanisads

1. Deepen Your Understanding of Hinduism: The Upanisads are foundational texts that explore the core doctrines of Hinduism, such as rebirth and karma, providing essential insights into the religion’s beliefs and practices.

2. Engage with Timeless Philosophical Questions: These texts challenge readers to ponder the inner meaning of the world, offering a profound exploration of existential questions that remain relevant today.

3. Experience the Beauty of Lucid Verse and Prose: The Upanisads are written in direct, unadorned prose or lucid verse, allowing readers to appreciate the elegance and simplicity of ancient philosophical thought.

4. Discover the Path to Spiritual Bliss: Through discussions on overcoming death and achieving detachment, the Upanisads guide readers on a journey towards spiritual equilibrium and bliss.

5. Benefit from a Powerful New Translation: Valerie Roebuck’s translation combines accuracy with readability, preserving the oral style and making these profound texts accessible to modern readers.