Kuṇḍikopaniṣad

The Kuṇḍikopaniṣad is a minor Upaniṣad that describes the practice of the “vessel” (kuṇḍikā) purification technique, a yoga practice involving the use of a copper vessel for internal cleansing.

Overview

The text explains the kuṇḍikā practice, in which the practitioner swallows a slender cloth (vastra) to cleanse the internal channels of the body. This practice is associated with the purification of the nāḍīs (energy channels) and the preparation for kuṇḍalinī yoga. It is attached to the Atharvaveda.

Content and Structure

The Kuṇḍikopaniṣad provides detailed instructions on the preparation and use of the kuṇḍikā cloth, the dietary regimen required, and the mantras to be recited during the practice. It explains how this internal purification leads to the awakening of kuṇḍalinī and the attainment of liberation. The text emphasizes the importance of a qualified guru for this practice.

Significance

The text is significant for its preservation of early internal purification (dhauti) practices that became important in Haṭha Yoga. It demonstrates the continuity between the Upanishadic tradition and later yogic body practices.

Verification Notes

• One of the Yoga Upaniṣadss](/entry/upanishads) in the Muktikā canon.
• Audited against Wikipedia (September 2026).