Spiritual seekers and thinkers should mediate over <i>The Upanishads, Translated and Commentated, Vol. 1</i> by Swâmi Paramânanda, a collection of four of the earliest spiritual texts known to man. The Upanishads are a series of spiritual texts that originated from teachings in early Indian civilization. Some Upanishads are as old as 1500 BC and contain the earliest writings on human consciousness. These sacred Hindu texts are said to reveal truth about God, the Ultimate Reality and spiritual salvation. The Upanishads were passed down from wise teachers to the most worthy students and seekers.<br><br>There may be hundreds of Upanishads, but only twelve are considered the most essential. In this book, Paramânanda gives us four significant Upanishads: Isa, Katha, Kena and Mundaka. Each one begins with a peaceful chant. The verses are presented in question and answer form, which is a classic way of imparting wisdom. Isa is about the knowledge of the all pervading deity. It tells readers the practical means of doing actions while still renouncing the fruits of actions. Katha is a very popular Upanishad with Hindus and non-Hindus alike. After relating a story, it reveals the monotheistic basis of Hinduism and the meaning of the word "Om." Kena is a short Upanishad with a complex message about consciousness, while Mundaka explains the creation process and the path to heaven. <br><br>There are many, many more revelations, stories and teachings in the verses of the Upanishads. Readers will love meditating on the meanings of the dialogues presented by Paramânanda. <i>The Upanishads, Translated and Commentated, Vol. 1</i> is an insightful addition to your spiritual library.