Understanding Brahman: Sat-Chit-Ananda

Note: This is the 11th reflection in a series inspired by Self-Unfoldment by Swami Chinmayananda.

The principle that enables the body to perceive, the mind to feel, and the intellect to think is known as the Supreme Reality or Brahman. This reality serves as the substratum for all our experiences, often referred to by various names such as OM, Atman, Pure Consciousness, Pure Awareness, The Truth, The Absolute, Pure Self, and the Spirit, among others.

The essence that allows both you and I to have our unique experiences is fundamentally the same, much like how all devices in a home operate due to the same source of electricity. Similarly, it is this Pure Consciousness that gives rise to the diverse expressions of all beings, enhancing our understanding of life’s interconnectedness. The divine principle is akin to the string that holds a garland of flowers together, with each flower representing a different being. This metaphor illustrates a profound unity that binds all life forms together.

While the body, mind, and intellect are instruments or sheaths made of matter, allowing us to interact with the world, they are inherently insentient. It is the divine principle that breathes life into these instruments, enabling the manifestation of sentience. Without this principle, the body, mind, and intellect would remain dormant, incapable of perception or experience. Likewise, the divine principle cannot manifest independently.

The dynamic interplay between Purusha (spirit) and Prakriti (matter) creates the vibrant tapestry of life. This union serves as the catalyst for birth, activity, growth, and the myriad phenomena we observe around us. The interaction of spirit and matter resembles how electricity illuminates a bulb. Just as electricity enables a heater, bulb, TV, and other devices to function, Brahman infuses sentiency into what would otherwise be inert matter: the body, mind, and intellect.

Brahman, or Pure Consciousness, is the changeless substratum that allows us to perceive the ever-changing nature of the world. While life is characterized by constant flux—birth, growth, decay, and death—Brahman is the stable reference point against which these changes are measured. This unchanging reality provides the foundation for understanding the transformations within our own body, mind (emotions and feelings), and intellect (ideas and thoughts).

Vedanta offers profound insights into the union of spirit and matter and the essence of universal consciousness. By understanding the Supreme Brahman, we can cultivate a deeper appreciation for the divine principle that animates our existence. This understanding reveals the interconnectedness we share with the changeless reality that underpins all change, enriching our perspective on the intricate dance between spirit and matter in the universe.

Brahman is described by the Sanskrit term satchidananda (Sat-Chit-Ananda), which comprises three fundamental aspects: Sat (existence), Chit (consciousness), and Ananda (bliss).

Sat represents the unchanging essence of everything that exists across all three periods of time—past, present, and future. It reflects the eternal nature of Brahman, the supreme reality. To illustrate, consider a clay jug: while the jug may change form or eventually cease to exist, the clay—its fundamental substance—remains unchanged. This analogy highlights the idea that our true essence is timeless and not altered by external circumstances.

Chit signifies consciousness or awareness. This consciousness pervades all states of our experience—waking, dreaming, and in deep sleep. It illuminates our experiences and enables self-awareness. Even during deep sleep, consciousness enables us to reflect on the quality of our sleep upon waking.

Ananda represents unconditional bliss or joy. True happiness goes beyond material desires and external circumstances. Ananda is not found in fleeting pleasures; rather, it resides within each of us as a lasting sense of joy. By shifting our focus from temporary joys to our inherent state of bliss, we align with our true nature and can experience profound contentment. This perspective challenges the conventional quest for happiness through external means, suggesting instead that true happiness comes from self-realization.

As we navigate the world, we do so through our minds and intellect. The quality of our experiences is influenced by how our minds interpret the stimuli we encounter. Our worldview reflects our inner state: a positive mind perceives opportunities, while a negative one sees obstacles. By cultivating a balanced and harmonious inner world, we can approach life’s experiences with grace and resilience.

By aligning with our true nature and recognizing the bliss within us, we become less affected by the ups and downs of life. We can lead lives filled with meaning, purpose, and lasting happiness. The journey to true happiness begins from within. By awakening to our inner joy, we can navigate the world with peace and fulfillment.