Who was Nachiket, the one who debated with Yama?

Who was Nachiket, the one who debated with Yama?

Dhruv, who shone as the polar star at a very young age. Prahlad, the devotee whose unwavering devotion manifested Narasimha from the lifeless pillar. 

Such examples of "small in form, but great in glory" are found in our mythological stories. The tales of the devotion and courage of young heroes like Dhruva are a source of pride for our culture. Today, let's learn about Nachiket, who hungered for knowledge and encountered the deity of death, Yama.

Nachiket was the son of the sage Uddalaka. Uddalaka had organized a yagna (sacrificial ceremony) named Viswajit Yagna. As per the rituals of the yagna, everything, including their own home, their possessions, and their children, was to be given away in charity. The yagna brought them spiritual joy. Some people take a pledge to donate everything for the acquisition of spiritual knowledge. Nachiket's father, Uddalaka, had given away all his livings except for those which were required for nourishment, as well as the cow that was ailing. However, he didn't donate those things which were essential to him, like his son and wife. Nachiket noticed his father's insincere behaviour during the yagna, which made him sad. Though only five years old, Nachiket had a deep understanding.

Nachiket went to Uddalaka and said, "You have not given away everything genuinely. You made a show of giving away your possessions in the yagna. You didn't even donate me, your son. Please tell me, to whom are you giving me?" Upon hearing Nachiket's words, Uddalaka became angry and replied, "I'll give you to Yama, the god of death." Not knowing that Yama wasn't present at that time, five-year-old Nachiket was not deterred by his father's words and resolved to face Yama himself. He fasted for three days, living without food and water, waiting for Yama's arrival.

When Yama finally arrived after three days, he was surprised to find the young boy waiting for him without food or water. Impressed by Nachiket's determination, Yama said, "You waited for three days without food, water, or sleep, and with such steadfast resolve. Child, I'm pleased with you. Ask for three boons from me." Nachiket's first boon was to ensure his father's peace of mind. He requested that his father be free from anger and restlessness, and be able to recognize his actions. Yama granted this wish. For his second boon, Nachiket asked about the path of acquiring knowledge and spiritual enlightenment through karma and yagna (sacrifice). Yama explained the profound importance of all forms of sacrifice and knowledge. For his third boon, Nachiket questioned Yama about the mystery of life after death. Yama hesitated, but Nachiket urged, saying he should reveal that knowledge.

Yama then explained to Nachiket, "The soul never dies nor is born, it does not earn or lose. It is eternal." Nachiket acquired the knowledge of death and karma. By Yama's grace, he learned the ways of attaining knowledge and spiritual wisdom. He understood the power of unwavering determination, the focus on the goal, and the fearlessness required to tread the path of righteousness. Nachiket stayed in Yama's realm for a few months, pondering over the profound truths he had learned. When Yama eventually returned him to his father, Nachiket imparted this knowledg and leaving a deep impression on his father's mind.

The story of Nachiket teaches us that physical pleasures and material wealth are temporary. The pursuit of knowledge and spiritual realization is the ultimate goal. Patience, strong determination, and unwavering focus on the path lead to success. The story of Nachiket's quest for knowledge and his discussion with Yama inspires us to pursue higher truths and to follow the path of righteousness.