The Story of Indra and Virochana from The Upanishads

Indra and Virochana

The story of Indra and Virochana from the Chandogya Upanishad is another profound allegory about the human quest for knowledge and the dangers of misinterpretation. It unfolds with two seemingly contrasting figures: Indra, the king of the gods, and Virochana, the king of the asuras (demons).

Seeking the Ultimate Knowledge:

Both Indra and Virochana, driven by a desire for ultimate knowledge, approach Prajapati, the wise creator god. They yearn to understand the essence of the Atman, the immortal Self. To obtain this knowledge, they diligently serve Prajapati for thirty-two years, demonstrating their commitment and perseverance.

The Revelation and its Misinterpretation:

Finally, Prajapati reveals the secret of the Atman: "Tat tvam asi," - "That thou art." He explains that the true Self is not limited to the physical body or even the mental faculties. It is the imperishable, boundless consciousness that underlies all existence.

However, despite receiving the same teaching, Indra and Virochana interpret it differently. Indra, with his insightful nature, understands the deeper meaning. He perceives the Atman as the inner Self, the source of all being, the witness to all experience.

Virochana, however, focuses on the immediate and literal interpretation. He fixates on the physical 'thou' and mistakes the body for the true Self. He believes that mastering and strengthening the body is the key to attaining power and immortality.

The Divergent Paths:

Armed with their respective interpretations, Indra and Virochana return to their domains. Indra shares the true knowledge of the Atman with the gods, leading them on a path of spiritual ascension. He embodies the qualities of wisdom, humility, and service, ruling with justice and compassion.

Virochana, on the other hand, implements his materialistic understanding. He strengthens his physical prowess, builds impregnable fortresses, and instills fear among his subjects. His reign is marked by arrogance, aggression, and a thirst for earthly power.

The Ultimate Result:

The contrasting fates of Indra and Virochana highlight the fundamental difference between true knowledge and delusion. Indra's understanding of the Atman guides him towards enlightenment and harmonious leadership. Virochana's misinterpretation, however, leads to his downfall. He eventually loses his kingdom and power, a testament to the fleeting nature of material pursuits.

Deep Meaning:

The story of Indra and Virochana serves as a cautionary tale against mistaking the transient for the eternal. It reminds us that true knowledge lies not in external power or possessions, but in understanding the nature of our own being. The Atman, the inner Self, is our true essence, the unchanging witness to the ever-changing world.

By seeking this inner knowledge, we can transcend the limitations of our egos and cultivate qualities like wisdom, compassion, and equanimity. Ultimately, the story encourages us to embark on a journey of self-discovery, one that leads us beyond the illusions of the world and towards the realization of our true nature.

The story of Indra and Virochana is a powerful allegory about the search for truth and enlightenment, and the dangers of attachment to the material world. It emphasizes the importance of self-discovery and realization, and the need to look beyond the limitations of the body and the senses to attain true spiritual liberation. The story of Indra and Virochana serves as a guidepost on the path towards self-knowledge and liberation.