Amṛtābindu Upaniṣad

The Amṛtābindu Upaniṣad is a minor Yoga Upaniṣad that describes the “drop of immortality” (amṛta-bindu), the essence of the Self that bestows liberation.

Overview

The text explains that there is a subtle point within the heart where the immortal essence resides. By concentrating on this point through meditation, the practitioner attains liberation. It is attached to the Atharvaveda and is closely related to the Teja Bindu and Nāda Bindu Upaniṣads.

Content and Structure

The Amṛtābindu Upaniṣad teaches that the mind should be stilled through breath control and meditation on the inner point of light. It describes the three states of consciousness (waking, dreaming, deep sleep) and the fourth state (turīya) beyond them. The text provides practical instructions for attaining the immortal state through single-pointed concentration.

Significance

The text is important for its contribution to the understanding of the bindu (point) concept in yoga, which became central to later kuṇḍalinī and cakra meditation practices. It provides a bridge between the philosophical Upaniṣads and the practical Haṭha Yoga literature.

Verification Notes

• One of the Yoga Upaniṣads in the Muktikā canon.
• Audited against Wikipedia (September 2026).