Krama in the Kaṭhaśruti-Upaniṣad

Abstract

This study aims at clarifying the significance of the term krama and its derivative anukrama found in the Kaṭhaśruti-Upaniṣad through the use of contextual analysis. Chapter 1 of the Kaṭhaśruti-Upaniṣad describes the procedure of renunciatory rites and the order of renouncers for a person who is about to become a renunciant. In this context, it suggests that krama means the proper order of ceremonies to become a renunciant. Meanwhile, depending on the interpretation of the question immediately following the example sentence of anukrama, anukrama can be interpreted as the four orders （āśrama） that a person is expected to pass through. However, it is more likely that anukrama indicates the proper sequence of ceremonies constituting the rites of renunciation.