Three Boons of Nachiketa
In the story of Nachiketa and Yama from the Kathopanishad, the three boons (blessings) granted by Lord Yama to Nachiketa are:
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Reconciliation with His Father – As the first boon, Nachiketa asks that his father, King Vajashrava, be free of anger and accept him back with love when he returns home. Yama grants this, ensuring peace and harmony in Nachiketa’s family.
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Knowledge of the Sacred Fire (Agni-Vidya) – For the second boon, Nachiketa seeks knowledge about the sacrificial fire that leads to heaven. Yama teaches him the correct way to perform the fire ritual (Yajna) that ensures prosperity and a place in the celestial realms.
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The Secret of Death and Immortality – As the third and most profound boon, Nachiketa asks Yama to reveal the truth about what happens after death. Yama initially refuses, testing Nachiketa’s resolve by offering worldly riches instead. However, Nachiketa remains steadfast in his quest for true wisdom. Impressed, Yama imparts the knowledge of Atman (the Self), Moksha (liberation), and the imperishable nature of the soul, revealing the path to eternal bliss and enlightenment.
This story highlights the pursuit of knowledge, self-realization, and the transcendence of material desires as the ultimate goals of human life.
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