Aitareya Upanishad — Chapter 2: Chapter 2: The Three Births of the Self

5 verses

Verse 1

In the man first the embryo comes into being as seed. This seed is the vigour gathered from all the limbs; he bears the self within his own self.

Verse 2

When he deposits it in a woman, then he begets it. That is his first birth.

Verse 3

It becomes one with the woman, as if one of her own limbs. Therefore it does not hurt her. She nourishes this self of his that has come to her.

Verse 4

She who nourishes is to be nourished. The woman bears the embryo. He cherishes the child even before and after birth. In cherishing the child, he che…

Verse 5

That is his second birth. This self of his is placed for the performance of virtuous deeds. Then this other self, having fulfilled his duties and rea…