Ishavasya Upanishad

The Isha Upanishad, which is always regarded as first among the Upanishads derives its name from the first word of the first verse of the same Upanishad. The word “Isa” means the Lord of the Universe. the Upanishad begins with the majestic and triumphant declaration that the whole universe is inhabited by God and belongs to Him. As the name suggests, Isa Upanishad is an Upanishad of Isa or Isvara, the Lord of Creation and the source of all.

Although the Upanishad has only 18 verses, they sum up the essential beliefs and practices of Hinduism. In fact, spiritually and for the purpose of leading a divine centered life, the 18 verses are as important as the 18 chapters of the Bhagavad Gita.