[Solved] Krishna in Chhandogya Upanishad | Ancient References

Which of the following epic has primarily mentioned Krishna, son of Devaki?

[R.A.S./R.T.S.(Pre) 1999]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Tracing the historical evolution of Krishna requires looking beyond the Great Epics into older Vedic literature where he appears as a student-sage.

Authentic Source Evidence

The Chhandogya Upanishad (belonging to the Sama Veda) mentions Krishna, the son of Devaki, as a disciple of the sage Ghora Angirasa, who taught him the symbolic nature of sacrifice.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: While the Mahabharata and Bhagavata Purana are primary sources for his adult life and divinity, the Chhandogya Upanishad is one of the earliest textual references to his name and lineage.

Logic 2: Panini's Ashtadhyayi also mentions Vasudeva, but the specific 'son of Devaki' identification is a hallmark of the Chhandogya reference.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"What lesson did Krishna learn from Ghora Angirasa in the Upanishad?"

He was taught that the entire life of a person—their virtues, penance, and even death—can be viewed as a spiritual sacrifice (Yajna).

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"The mention of Krishna in a principal Upanishad proves that the figure was established in Indian tradition long before the final composition of the Puranas."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Sama Veda 3