Mahavakya
 

"I AM THAT I AM"   Exodus 3:14

"I AM THAT, THOU ART THAT, ALL THIS IS THAT"  Upanishads
                                   
"Before Abraham was, I AM"   John 8:58
 

 
Sai Maa often uses a Sanskrit term, Mahavakya, that many may not be familiar with.  The word literally translates as "great statement" or "great pronouncement."   In terms of Sai Maa's teachings, Mahavakya could be understood as the highest affirmation of our essential nature as the Infinite Eternal Being that we each are.  It could also be understood as the manifestation of the highest expression of Divine Love that we each are. 
 
There are four primary Mahavakyas that are found in the Upanishads, which are part of the Vedas.  The Vedas are the oldest record of human experience and the main texts of Hinduism.  Sri Adi Shankara, an ancient sage, wrote commentaries on the Upanishads, helping clarify the teachings associated with these four Mahavakyas.  These Mahavakyas are as follows:

1. Prajnanam Brahma from the Rig Veda: "Absolute Consciousness is Brahman"
2. Aham Brahmasmi from the Yajur Veda: "I am Brahman".  A variant of this is  So 'Ham: "I am"
3. Tat Tvam Asi from the Sama Veda: "That thou art".  This commandment represents the highest advice of the Masters.  It is often the last teaching that is given by the Master before the student moves fully into the Light.
4. Ayam Atma Brahma from the Atharva Veda: "This consciousness in me, the Self, is Brahman"

The term "Brahman" means the "Absolute Reality" or the "All encompassing ultimate nature of things."  All these Mahavakyas proclaim the identity of the individual self with this Brahman.  The role of the Master is to activate these Mahavakyas for their students.  When activated they become formulas for personal transformation and help the student to become consciously awakened in the Paramatman, or Supreme Self.  This activation also helps the aspirant to become a perfected instrument of Divine Love in manifestation. 
 
Sai Maa, through the Grace of Her Love, has activated these Mahavakyas for each of us.  They can be used in the same way that She has instructed us to use other affirmations such as: "I am Light" or "I am Freedom" or "I am Life, I am Resurrection."  Use them as part of you daily spiritual practice.
 
Thou Art That
The Teaching Team