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A human nature is not altogether unchanging, but it does remain sufficiently constant. This post modernist approach calls forth the study of ancient classics in the context of their present relevance. Though, the evolution of science and technology is at its peak, the psychological and social problems of mankind remain the same. The ancient texts are of vital significance in terms of their solution-based approach. The Upanishad is one of the most ancient textual traditions of Bharatvarsha. Though it is remote in terms of its time and age, it represents the wisdom that is of perennial relevance. Broadly speaking, the Upanishads illustrate and illuminate the basic spiritual experiences which form the bases of almost all the religions in different degree and exposition. The total number of Upanishads is believed to be 108 and many of them are now extinct. However, among the existing ones, 18 Upanishads are classified as principal Upanishads. The text on hand, Taittiriya Upanishad stands the seventh one amongst these 18 Upanishads. "Taittiriya" has its etymological root in the word "Tittiri" which signifies two meanings: (1) The Vedic sage Tittiri who was the disciple of Yask and (2) The mythical students who became "partridges" (a type of birds) in order to gain knowledge. The second meaning seems to be appropriate as the verses in this Upanishad are of the confusing variety like different grain particles of the same grist said to have been collected by this mythical group of disciples turned into birds. These verses are not in coherence, but, instead, each of them stands in isolation. (Many of the verses of) The Taittiriya Upanishad belongs to the Yajurveda, to be precise, Krisna-Yajurveda-a latter part. It consists of three main chapters known as "Vallies" -these being the seventh, eighth and ninth chapters of "Taittriya Aranyaka". These chapters are known as "Shiksha Valli", "Bhrugu Valli" and "Anand Valli". Further, these chapters are divided into subchapters, namely "Anuvaks". The language being employed here is very simple and lucid. This part contains the verses of prayers and blessings, instructions on phonetics, ethical advice and morals given to a group of the graduating students in the form of convocation address. It defines "Brahman" as a basic principle of the universe. It further illustrates the path of penance and righteousness to realize that Absolute Reality. In totality, it contains only 77 descriptive, but rhythmic verses. Thus, it is a small text containing a variety of verses in a highly lucid manner. Hence, the formation of the Taittriya Upanishad dates back to the former half of the first millennium BCE. The name 'taittiriya' as mentioned before is derived from the word "Tittiri" i.e. a group of birds. There is one more etymological surmises suggesting its origin in the name of Sage Tittiri who is said to be the propagator of the Taittriya school of Yajurveda.
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