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Shvetashvatara Upanishad

Also known as: Śvetāśvatara Upaniṣad

Integration of Vedantic monism with theism and yogic ideas

The Shvetashvatara Upanishad is a unique text that blends early Vedantic monism with a growing emphasis on a personal deity, often identified with Rudra (a form of Shiva). It introduces elements of yoga, meditation, and devotion alongside Upanishadic metaphysics. Theistic and mystical, while grounded in deep philosophical inquiry.

Key Idea: Devotion (bhakti), knowledge (jnana), and disciplined practice (yoga) are all essential for realizing the true Self, which is both personal (Ishvara) and impersonal (Brahman).