This is the truth: as from a well-kindled fire thousands of sparks of similar form spring forth, so from the Immutable are born diverse beings, O noble one, and to it they return.

The second muṇḍaka begins with the central metaphor: multiplicity arises from unity and returns to it.

Sudīptāt pāvakāt — from a well-kindled fire. Brahman as primordial fire, radiant, active.

Visphuliṅgāḥ sahasraśaḥ — thousands of sparks. The individualities, the beings, the apparently separate souls.

Sarūpāḥ — of similar form. All sparks share the nature of fire; all beings are Brahman in essence.

Akṣarāt — from the Immutable. The paradox: what does not change is the source of all change.

Vividhāḥ bhāvāḥ — diverse beings, multiple existences. The unlimited variety of the universe.

Tatra caivāpiyanti — and to it they return. The complete cycle: emission, existence, return. There is no final loss; everything returns to the source.

Somya — O noble one. Affectionate term indicating the disciple’s disposition.

The yogī contemplates their own existence as a temporary spark of eternal fire.