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ISAVASYA UPANISHAD
into India. India later became the center of Gnosticism. What we know today as Hinduism is nothing but Gnosticism of India. It is this Gnosticism that is referred to here as Vidya.
The name is derived from the Greek word "gnosis" which literally means "knowledge." However, the English words "Insight" and "enlightenment" capture more of the meaning of "gnosis." Knowledge (gnosos) is not achieved through a purely cognitive procedure. Yoga, Tapas, dialectic, and reflection are the means to enter into the divine realm to which it is cosubstantial. The mantra categorically rejects that idea of salvation through Karma (work) as well as through Jnana (Knowledge).
Tit 3:5-7 he saved us, not because of deeds done by us in righteousness, but in virtue of his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal in the Holy Spirit, which he poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that we might be justified by his grace and become heirs in hope of eternal life.
MANTRA TEN
anyadevahurvidyaya'nyadahuravidyaya | iti susruma dhiranam ye nastadvicacaksire || 10 11
One thing, they say, is obtained through intellectual knowledge; another, they say, from work. Thus we have heard from the wise who have taught us this.
One thing, they say, is obtained from real knowledge; another, they say, from what is not knowledge. Thus we have heard from the wise who taught us this. ( Max Muller) Some people including Sankara interprets Avidya as Rituals and Vidya as Knowledge. Gnostic teachers taught that there were a vast number of lesser gods or divine emanations that emanated from the one true God. Hence we have here the association of Vidya with lesser gods. Both Rituals and knowledge leads to destruction. The rewards for following work and following the lower gods of nature are different, Both do not lead to salvation. They can provide temporary gains. Each act has its own reward.
MANTRA ELEVEN
vidyam cavidyam ca yastadvedobhayam saha avidyaya mrtyum tirtva vidyaya'mrtamasnute 1111 11
He who is aware that both knowledge and the truth beyond knowledge should be pursued together, overcomes death through non- knowledge and obtains immortality through knowledge.
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