Kaula (Hinduism)

Last updated

In the Hindu religious traditions of Shaktism and Shaivism, Kaula, also known as Kula (the Hindus themselves more often than not opt to consider Kula Tantra a tradition of its own right, and Kaulas are those adepts who insert Kula practices into torrents of other traditions to which they belong), Kulamārga ("the Kula path") and Kaulācāra ("the Kaula tradition"), is a Tantric tradition which is characterised by distinctive rituals and symbolism connected with the worship of Shakti and Shiva [1] that is associated with cremation-ground or charnel ground asceticism. [2]

Contents

Kaula preserves some of the distinctive features of the Kāpālika tradition, from which it is derived. [3] It is subdivided into four subcategories of texts based on the goddesses Kuleśvarī, Kubjikā, Kālī, and Tripurasundarī respectively. [4] The Trika texts are closely related to the Kuleśvarī texts and can be considered as part of the Kulamārga. [1] [5] These subcategories emerged as cults with a wide range of practices—some with mild practices involving worship of Siva or Sadasiva as a householder deity while others involved worshiping ferocious goddesses with blood, alcohol and erotic offerings. [6]

In later Hatha Yoga, the Kaula visualization of kundalini rising through a system of chakras is overlaid onto the earlier bindu-oriented system. [7] Also, M. P. Pandit, a distinguished expert on Trika, once wrote an interesting note about liberation through Kashmir Shaivism: "There are four ways of effecting this liberation: Kaula Marga, where the individual pursues yogic practices; Shakti Marga, mainly through the awakening and rise of the Kundalini Power; Shunya Marga, arriving at the non-duality of Shiva through an act of Grace; Ananda Marga, instant self-recognition resulting in perpetual bliss."

Kaula and kula

The translation of the term kula in English is considered difficult and has raised some problems for researchers. [8] The basic meaning is "family", "group" or "self-contained unit". [9] This is explained by Gavin Flood as referring to the retinues of minor goddesses depicted in the schools' literature. [10]

Philosophically the term is said to represent a unifying connectedness, beneath the various objects, processes and living entities of this world, which may be identified with these goddesses as aspects of the supreme deity, in some regions the god Shiva, elsewhere a goddess. [11] Another meaning sometimes given to the term kaula is that of a "group of people" engaged together in the practice of spiritual discipline.

Kaula practices are based on tantra, [1] closely related to the siddha tradition and Shaktism (if those siddhas relate themselves to divya or manava streams, one can easily find their texts; if the siddhas belong to the siddha stream proper which relates to daityas and danavas, a curious mind is yet to find something textual about that). Kaula sects are noted for their extreme exponents who recommend the flouting of taboos and social mores as a means of liberation. Such practices were often later toned down to appeal to ordinary householders, as in Kashmiri Shaivism. [12] A quite enlightening debrief on the Kula and Kaula subsects (which are plenty) in provided on the Hinduist site https://www.kamakotimandali.com/2021/03/30/kula-and-kaula-tantra/ (all rights reserved). There also exists an idea about the down-looking, sixth face of Mahashakti (Adhomukhi). Tantraloka calls it Patalaamnaya, where asuras and nagas reside. Adharaamnaya is also its name. Elsewhere it is called Bauddhaamnaya and is bound to Vajrayogini equated by Tibetans with Hatakeshvari. Here the parallel with Hinduism is evident because Hinduist deity Hatakeshvara with his consort rules in Vitala, the second realm of asuras in Patala. Of course, much more popular daivic and manushya commands prevail among Kulas and Kaulas, though they are still shrouded in secrecy - for the better.

Fundamental concepts

The concepts of purity, sacrifice, freedom, the spiritual master (guru) and the heart are core concepts of the Kaula tradition.

Purity and impurity

In this sacrifice, the wise man should use the very ingredient which is forbidden in the series of scriptures. It is immersed in the nectar-of-the-left. (Tantrāloka) [13]

Actions or objects are not seen impure in themselves, rather the attitude is the determinant factor. Spiritual ignorance is the only impurity and knowledge is pure. [14] As long as one is identified with the supreme consciousness, there is nothing impure. [15] The adept is unaffected by any external impurity [16] and makes use of what is reprehensible to attain transcendence. [17] Here arises the antinomian and asocial character of Kaula and the left-handed forms of tantra.

Sacrifice

Kaula sacrifice ( yajna ) is defined primarily as an inward act. Any action performed with the purpose of evoking the supreme reality is said to be sacrifice. [18] However, if sacrifice were performed only interiorly, there would be a lack of externality and therefore limitation and dualism. [19] That is why Kaula adepts also perform symbolic external sacrifices making use of a sacred place and various rituals.

There are six main types of sacrifice according to the "six supports"; external reality, the couple, the body, the central channel of the subtle breath (susumna), the mind and Shakti. [20]

Freedom

Kaula stresses the language of self-sufficiency, liberation and freedom. [21] Socially the Kaula may be viewed as an alternative society, complete in itself, which supports the freedom of the devotee from interior mental and egotistic limitations and from exterior social and cultural preconceptions.

At a social level deconditioning is realized by detaching from traditional restrictions with regard to what is considered pure and impure and through the adoption of the spiritual family of the guru. At the mental level freedom is attained by the awakening of Kundalini through asana , pranayama , mudra or mantras , the amplification and sublimation of the vital and mental energy and the elevation of consciousness. The culmination of this process is spiritual illumination.

Absolute freedom is to be found only in the revelation of the unity of the spirit with God, a state described as Atma-vyapti or re-absorption into the true Self ( atman ) or Shiva-vyapti: re-absorption into the supreme consciousness of Shiva. [22] To be free is to be absolved from the necessity of rebirth conditioned by karmic constraints. Consciousness expands into pure reality, a level that is considered to exist beyond time and space, where the powers of knowledge and action are unfettered, there are no conditioning desires or needs to be fulfilled and bliss is directly present in consciousness. [23]

Kaula's basic method is the experience of the freedom of consciousness [24] in the heart, ultimately reflected in the center of the being as Khechari Mudra. This mudra (attitude) means "the ability of consciousness to freely move (charati) about in the space (kha) of the heart". [25] The disciple learns to recognize Śiva as the ultimate reality. The practices pertaining to consciousness are explained in such texts as Vijñāna Bhairava Tantra, Spanda Kārikās and Śiva Sūtras.

Kashmiri Shaivism describes freedom as svātantrya - the freedom to create, maintain and destroy the universe pertaining to Śiva himself. It is considered that Śiva, above any restriction or conditioning, creates the universe of his free will as a playful expression of his spirit (lila). Here the kaulas are unlike Advaita and Veda, where there is the conception that maya (cosmic illusion) is superimposed upon the brahman (absolute), inducing a sort of illusory creation. Here, creation is considered real, and the will to create is considered free and unfettered. Svatantrya is identical to Ananda (bliss) and vimarśa (reflexive consciousness/auto-consciousness).

Guru

"Guru is the path" (gurur upāyaḥ). [26] This statement from the most revered sacred text of Kashmir Shaivism, the Śiva Sutras, summarizes the school's conception of the guru-disciple relationship. Kaula functions as a form of guru yoga, where the disciple's only essential practice is to surrender himself to his guru, accepting the spiritual impulse bestowed upon him by his master. Disciples eminently open towards their guru's spiritual influence are named spiritual sons and held to know the highest state of consciousness [27] by their direct link to their guru's illuminated heart. [28]

The guru is considered to form a single Self (atman) with his disciples. As such, he leads the disciples to the discovery of their own Atman with his own consciousness, exalted into the supreme state. [29]

The Heart

Aham, the heart or "subjective I", is a central concept in Kaula ideology, conceived of as the most sacred reality, home of consciousness (Cit) and bliss (Ananda), place of union of the cosmic couple Shiva and Shakti. The term Aham refers to the same reality as other terms like anuttara (unsurpassed), Akula (beyond the group), Shiva (The Lord), Cit (supreme consciousness) as well as "feminine" aspects as Ananda and Shakti. Each term brings a specific viewpoint, but none of them can fully describe the Supreme Reality.

On the individual level, the heart is the binding force of all conscious experiences – the individual being is considered a Kula composed of eight elements: five senses, ego (ahamkar), the mind and the intellect. These eight are not disconnected, unrelated processes but rather a unified, interrelated family ("kaula") based on consciousness as the common substrate. [30] Kaula prescribes practices that reintegrate the eight "rays" of the soul into the supreme consciousness.

On the cosmic level, the "Heart of the Lord" (aham) is the substrate of the family of 36 elements forming all manifestation. The concept of "Spiritual Heart" is so important that even the supreme realization in Kashmir Shaivism is described in relation to it. The Khechari Mudra is an attitude described as "the ability of consciousness to freely move (charati) about in the space (kha) of the heart". [31] ("kha"+"charati" forming "kechari")

Practices

Similarly to other tantric schools, Kaula chooses a positive (affirmative) approach: instead of prescribing self-limitations and condemning various actions, it embraces such actions in a spiritual light. [32] Thus, sexuality, love, social life and artistic pursuits are considered vectors of spiritual evolution. The main focus in Kaula is on practical methods for attaining liberation, [33] rather than engaging in complex philosophical debate. Whatever is pleasant and positive can be integrated in its practice.

The principal means employed in the Kaula practice are the spiritual family, the practice of initiation rituals, the couple (sexual rituals such as maithuna), the body (spiritual alchemy inside one's own body), the energy (shakti) (controlled especially through the use of mantras and mystical phonemes) and the consciousness (seen as the epitome of one's whole being and of the universe itself). [34] [35]

The first phase of development is linked to the attainment of a state of non-duality described as an "absorption into the spiritual heart", nirvikalpa samadhi or experiencing the "uncreated light" of consciousness (prakāśa) [36] (read a number of subjective accounts of this experience).

Group practice

Group practices, which are restricted to the members of a kaula (family), [37] include rituals, festivities, initiations and the secretive tantric sexual union. [38] The purposes of this practice are the initiation of novices, the expansion of consciousness [39] and expression of the bliss already attained as participants become more and more advanced. [40]

The key to the effectiveness of group practice is held to reside in the harmony of minds and hearts of the participants. [41] When a compatible spiritual group is created, it can greatly accelerate the spiritual evolution of its members. Abhinavagupta declares that such a group can enter a state of oneness and universal consciousness without effort. [42] He explains this by the notion of reflection (pratibimba), a process of unification, an effortless overflow of spiritual energy. [43]

The relation between a Kaula's parts is realized through mutual reflection. Reflection (pratibimba) is used here in the sense of "containing an image of the other objects inside", a concept similar to that of the hologram. The number of possible interactions and reflections between the members of a Kaula is much larger than the number of elements it contains. [44] Kashmir Shaivism declares that each part is in fact Akula (Shiva) in essence; [45] thus there is a connection between the parts through their common Akula substrate. As each part contains Akula, in its essence, it automatically contains everything, [46] this is how the mutual reflection is said to be realized.

Almost half of the Tantraloka is dedicated to rituals, usually evoking the union of complementary sets such as man and woman, a faculty and its object or inhalation and exhalation. [47] The practice of ritual may involve the construction of a mandala, [48] visualization of a goddess or group of goddesses (Śakti), [49] recitation (japa), performed in a state of "rest inside the creative awareness" (camatkāra), [50] oblation into fire and its internalized version – the burning of the objects and means of knowledge into the "fire" of non-dual consciousness (parāmarśa). [51]

The power of a ritual lies in its repetition. A pure disciple will attain the supreme state even by simply staying for a short time in presence of a guru without any instruction, but less prepared ones need reinforcement and gradual accumulation.

Physical practices

Kaula puts a special emphasis on the physical body in spiritual practice [52] "as a vessel of the Supreme" and, as such, not an obstacle tortured in ascetic practices. [53] Repeated submergence into the state of non-duality is supposed to induce secondary effects on the physical body due to the activity of the spiritual energy (śakti) and may be called tantric body alchemy (see internal alchemy). Starting from the expanded consciousness of the self (atman), the body (and in the end, the exterior reality too) is infused with the experience of non-duality. [54]

The non-dual, experienced initially only in consciousness, is extended to the whole body. The kaula adept will discover kaulika – the power ( siddhi ) of identification with the Universal Consciousness experienced in the physical body, [55] generated spontaneously, without any effort (formal meditation, postures asana, concentration Dharana and other forms of exertion in yoga). [56] This process is described as the descent of the energy of the non-dual consciousness into the physical. [57] Then consciousness manifests as a free force, entering the senses and producing extroverted samādhi . At this point, consciousness, mind, senses and physical body are "dissolved" into oneness, expanded into the spiritual light of consciousness.

As a consequence, any perception of the exterior reality becomes nondual. It becomes possible to live submerged in a continuous state of union with Shiva even while performing regular day-to-day activities. This form of extroverted, all-inclusive samādhi is the pinnacle of spiritual evolution, bhairavi mudra, jagadananda or bhava samadhi. The yogi experiences everything as pure light and ecstasy (cit-ananda) and does not feel any difference between interior and exterior any more. [58]

Yamala – the tantric couple

Abhinavagupta: "The couple (yamala) is consciousness itself, the unifying emission and the stable abode. It is the absolute, the noble cosmic bliss consisting of both Shiva and Shakti. It is the supreme secret of Kula; neither quiescent nor emergent, it is the flowing font of both quiescence and emergence." (Tantraloka) [59]

The sexual practices of the Kaula schools, also known as "the secret ritual", are performed with an "external Shakti" (sexual partner) [60] as opposed to the purely meditative practices which involve only one's own spiritual energies (the "interior Shakti"). The role of the sexual Kaula ritual is to unite the couple, yogini (initiated woman) and siddha (initiated man), and induce one in the other a state of permanent awakening. [61] This achievement is made possible by the intensity of their love. [62]

In their exalted state, the two become absorbed into the consciousness of the Self. Becoming united on all the levels, physical, astral, mental and even in their consciousness, they reconstitute the supreme couple of Shiva and Shakti. [63]

The Kaula sacrifice is reserved for the few, the elite who can maintain a state of Bhairava (spiritual illumination) in sexual union. [64] Other couples, even if they reproduce the ritual to the letter (as perceived from outside), if they do not attain Bhairava consciousness, are merely engaging in a sexual act.

"Initiation by the mouth of the yogini (yoginī-vaktra)", is a method by which the adept unites with a purified yoginī and receives the unique experience of the illuminated consciousness. [65] He is to see her as both his lover and guru.

The energy generated during the tantric sexual act is considered a form of "subtle emission", while the act of ejaculation is considered a form of physical emission. [66] In Kashmir Shaivism, the energy of emission (visarga śakti) is considered to be a form of ānanda (bliss).

Depending on the orientation of one's consciousness, introverted or extroverted, emission can be of two kinds: rested and risen. In Śānta, the rested form of emission, focus is absorbed just on one's own Self in an act of transcendence. [67] In Udita, the risen form, the focus is projected on the Self (atman) of one's lover – a state associated with immanence. [68]

Santodita (beyond udita and śānta) is the uniting form, cause of both śānta and udita emissions. Santodita is described as universal bliss (cidānanda), undivided consciousness, [69] kaula (the group of two as one) [70] and an "outflow of the pulsation of Shiva and Shakti". [71] This kind of translation from the physical act to the mental and to consciousness itself is a characteristic of the tantric world view.

Mantra practice

Mantric meditation is the most common form of tantric practice. In the Kaula system, this practice is associated especially with the group of phonemes. [72] [73] The 50 phonemes (varṇa) of the Sanskrit alphabet are used as "seed" mantras denoting various aspects of consciousness (cit) and energy (śakti). The group (kula) of Sanskrit phonemes form a complete description of reality, from the lowest ("earth") to the highest (Śiva consciousness) level. [74]

The ritual "setting out" of the phonemes imitates the emanation of the cosmos from the supreme I-consciousness of Śiva. [75] In another ritual, the phonemes are identified with specific zones of the body through the practice of nyāsa, infusing the body with spiritual energy. This mystical state of culminates in the kaula of the body (perfection of the ensemble of organs, senses and mind) and such a being is known as a siddha (accomplished one). [76] The adept attains a form of bodily enlightenment where, through the power of mantras, he comes to recognize the divinities within the body. [77]

Initiation into mantric practice is based on a transfer of power and the link (lineage) of the heart. The word or phoneme is not useful in itself, as it does not have efficiency unless the disciple received his initiation from an authentic master. [78]

Applications of the term

While the manifest reality is described as Kula (a variant form of the term Kaula), the unifying factor, the Deity, is termed Akula. [79] "A" means "beyond", or "non", thus "Akula" is "beyond kula". As the substrate of all manifestation is Akula, such is also the basis of any Kula. So Kula families are united by a common substrate, the transcendent Akula.

In every one of its instances, on various levels of the universe, Kula is a contraction (saṃkoca) of totality, [80] thus in each Kula there is a contracted form of the universe, a contracted form of Shiva (Akula) himself. Such an affirmation has been popularized under slogans like "Consciousness is Everything" in some recent Kashmir Shaivism related publications for the public. [81]

Often at the highest level of reality Shiva and Shakti form the supreme couple, or the ultimate Kula (family). [82] Shiva, under various names (anuttara - absolute, prakāśa - uncreated light, cit - supreme consciousness, Akula - beyond the groups of manifestation) and Shakti, under a similar plethora or names (Vimarsa - reflection in consciousness, Visarga - creative energy that emits the Universe, Kundalini - fundamental energy of the body, spanda - atemporal vibration, Kauliki - that which is "sprung" in Kula). The two are always in indissoluble union in a perfect state of bliss. Ultimately there is no difference between Shiva and Shakti, they are different aspects of the same reality. The supreme "family" by definition spans both manifestation and transcendence.

In Kashmir Shaivism, Supreme Consciousness (Cit, identical to Akula) is considered to be the substrate of manifestation. Consciousness is the ultimate principle, the monad of the universe, always present as substrate in every external object, be it gross (physical), subtle (mental) or subtlest (relating to the causal body or soul). Thus external world, body, mind and soul are considered kindred parts of the whole, concretisation of the supreme consciousness. [83] From this perspective, Kula is the totality of manifestation, in gross, subtle and supreme form. [84] Even if Cit is not directly involved in the process of manifestation (as it is said to be unmanifest), [85] it is always present in every possible facet of manifestation. [86] Thus, it is said to be the substantial cause of manifestation (manifestation is made of Cit, "like pots are made of clay") and also the efficient cause ("like the potter is the efficient cause in the activity of creating pots"). [87]

A closely related concept is Kaulika, the binding force of the Kula. The term literally means "sprung in Kula". [88] Kaulika is another name for Shakti, the spiritual energy. Shakti, as described in Kashmir Shaivism, does a paradoxical thing – she creates the universe, with all its diversity and at the same time remains identical to Shiva, the absolute transcendent. Thus, Kaulika is an energy both of spirit and matter. Bridging the two, Kaulika creates the path of evolution for consciousness from ego to spirit.

The manifestation of Kaulika proceeds from the absolute (anuttara) in the process of cosmic creation (mahasristi). [89] Thus Kaulika should not be seen as mere energy, or just the link between matter and spirit, but also identical to the absolute. Even if she is the dynamic aspect of the absolute, she does not rank lower than Shiva, her divine consort.

Texts

Kashmiri School of Kaula

While Kaula is primarily an oral tradition and does not place a high value on the creation of texts, there are some texts associated with the tradition. Muller-Ortega, following Pandey, summarizes the literature of the Kashmiri school as follows: [90]

See also

Related Research Articles

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Kundalini</span> Form of divine energy in Hindu mysticism

In Hinduism, kundalini is a form of divine feminine energy believed to be located at the base of the spine, in the muladhara. It is an important concept in Śhaiva Tantra, where it is believed to be a force or power associated with the divine feminine or the formless aspect of the Goddess. This energy in the body, when cultivated and awakened through tantric practice, is believed to lead to spiritual liberation. Kuṇḍalinī is associated with Parvati or Adi Parashakti, the supreme being in Shaktism; and with the goddesses Bhairavi and Kubjika. The term, along with practices associated with it, was adopted into Hatha yoga in the 9th century. It has since then been adopted into other forms of Hinduism as well as modern spirituality and New Age thought.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Shaivism</span> Hindu tradition that worships Shiva

Shaivism is one of the major Hindu traditions, which worships Shiva as the Supreme Being. One of the largest Hindu denominations, it incorporates many sub-traditions ranging from devotional dualistic theism such as Shaiva Siddhanta to yoga-orientated monistic non-theism such as Kashmiri Shaivism. It considers both the Vedas and the Agama texts as important sources of theology. According to a 2010 estimate by Johnson and Grim, Shaivism is the second-largest Hindu sect, constituting about 253 million or 26.6% of Hindus.

Tantras in Hinduism are esoteric scriptures.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Bhairava</span> Hindu and Buddhist deity

Bhairava, or Kala Bhairava, is a Shaivite and Vajrayāna deity worshipped by Hindus and Buddhists. In Shaivism, he is a powerful manifestation, or avatar, of Shiva, associated with annihilation. In the tradition of Kashmir Shaivism, Bhairava represents the Supreme Reality, synonymous to Para Brahman. Generally in Hinduism, Bhairava is also called Dandapani, as he holds a rod or danda to punish sinners, and Svaśva, meaning, "he whose vehicle is a dog". In Vajrayana Buddhism, he is considered a fierce emanation of boddhisatva Mañjuśrī, and also called Heruka, Vajrabhairava, and Yamantaka.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Abhinavagupta</span> Kashmiri philosopher and writer

Abhinavagupta was a philosopher, mystic and aesthetician from Kashmir. He was also considered an influential musician, poet, dramatist, exegete, theologian, and logician – a polymathic personality who exercised strong influences on Indian culture.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Lakshman Joo</span> Hindu saint (1907–1991)

Swami Lakshman Joo, born Lakshman Raina and also called Lal Sahib by his followers, was a mystic and scholar of Kashmir Shaivism.

Somananda was one of the teachers of Kashmir Shaivism, in the lineage of Trayambaka, author of the first philosophical treatise of this school, Śivadṛṣṭi. A contemporary of Bhaṭṭa Kallaṭa, the two formed the first wave of Kashmiri Shaivites to propose in a rigorous and logical way the concepts of nondual Shaivism. Somananda lived in Kashmir, most probably in Srinagar, where most of the later philosophers of the school lived, as a householder.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Kashmir Shaivism</span> Nondualist Kashmiri Hindu tradition

The Kashmir Shaivism tradition, also called Trika Shaivism, is a non-dualist branch of Shaiva-Shakta Tantra Hinduism that originated in Kashmir after 850 CE. In its place of origin in Kashmir, this tradition is commonly referred to as "Kashmiri Shaivism." It later spread beyond Kashmir, with its great scholar Abhinavagupta calling it "Trika". It particularly flourished in the states of Odisha and Maharashtra. Defining features of the Trika tradition are its idealistic and monistic Pratyabhijna ("Recognition") philosophical system, propounded by Utpaladeva and Abhinavagupta, and the centrality of the three goddesses Parā, Parāparā, and Aparā.

Shaktipata or Shaktipat refers in Hinduism to the transmission of spiritual energy upon one person by another or directly from the deity. Shaktipata can be transmitted with a sacred word or mantra, or by a look, thought or touch – the last usually to the ajna chakra or agya chakra or third eye of the recipient.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Nath</span> Yogic tradition within Shaivism

Nath, also called Natha, are a Shaiva sub-tradition within Hinduism in India and Nepal. A medieval movement, it combined ideas from Buddhism, Shaivism and Yoga traditions of the Indian subcontinent. The Naths have been a confederation of devotees who consider Shiva as their first lord or guru, with varying lists of additional gurus. Of these, the 9th or 10th century Matsyendranatha and the ideas and organization mainly developed by Gorakhnath are particularly important. Gorakhnath is considered the originator of the Nath Panth.

<i>Khecarī mudrā</i> Yogic practice involving mudra, mantra and sadhana

Khecarī mudrā is a hatha yoga practice carried out by curling the tip of the tongue back into the mouth until it reaches above the soft palate and into the nasal cavity. The tongue is made long enough to do this with many months of daily tongue stretching and, in some versions of the practice, by gradually severing the frenulum of the tongue with a sharp implement over a period of months.

Svātantrya is the Kashmiri Shaivite concept of divine sovereignty. Svātantrya is described as an energy that emanates from the Supreme (Paramaśiva), a wave of motion inside consciousness (spanda) that acts as the fundament of the world, or in another view, the original word. It does not use any external instrument as it itself is the first stage of creation.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Mahakali</span> Hindu goddess

Mahakali is the Hindu goddess of time and death in the goddess-centric tradition of Shaktism. She is also known as the supreme being in various Tantras and Puranas.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Maithuna</span> Sanskrit term used in Tantra most often translated as "sexual union"

Maithuna is a Sanskrit term for sexual intercourse within Tantra, or alternatively for the sexual fluids generated or the couple participating in the ritual. It is the most important of the Panchamakara and constitutes the main part of the grand ritual of Tantra also known as Tattva Chakra. Maithuna means the union of opposing forces, underlining the nonduality between human and divine, as well as worldly enjoyment (kama) and spiritual liberation (moksha). Maithuna is a popular icon in ancient Hindu art, portrayed as a couple engaged in physical loving.

Tantrāloka is a treatise of Abhinavagupta, a writer and philosopher of the Kashmir Shaivism school of Hindu philosophy.

Prakāśa is a concept in Indian philosophy translated by various authors as "light", "luminosity", "shining forth", "manifestation", "splendour", "light of consciousness" and so forth.

The Agamas are a collection of several Tantric literature and scriptures of Hindu schools. The term literally means tradition or "that which has come down", and the Agama texts describe cosmology, epistemology, philosophical doctrines, precepts on meditation and practices, four kinds of yoga, mantras, temple construction, deity worship and ways to attain sixfold desires. These canonical texts are in Tamil and Sanskrit.

<i>Vijñāna Bhairava Tantra</i> Text in Kashmir Shaivism

The Vijñāna-bhairava-tantra is a Shiva Tantra, of the Kaula Trika tradition of Kashmir Shaivism, possibly authored by Guru Keyūravatī. Singh notes that it is difficult to establish an exact date for the text, and it could have been written at some time from the 7th to the 8th century CE. It is also called the Śiva-jñāna-upaniṣad by Abhinavagupta.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Pratyabhijna</span> School of philosophy in Kashmir Shaivism

Pratyabhijñā or Pratyabhigyā is an idealistic, monistic, and theistic school of philosophy in Kashmir Shaivism which originated in the ninth century CE. The term Trika was used by Abhinavagupta to represent the whole of Kashmir Shaivism, or to designate the Pratyabhijñā system.

Mark S. G. Dyczkowski is an English Indologist, musician, and scholar of Tantra and Kashmir Shaivism. He has published multiple translations and commentaries, most notably the 12-volume Manthanabhairava Tantra and an 11-volume Tantrāloka including the commentary by Jayaratha. Dyczkowski also plays the sitar and has collected over 1,500 compositions for sitar.

References

  1. 1 2 3 Dupuche 2020
  2. "The Kaula or Kula tradition developed within the context of the Kapalika cremation-ground asceticism." ( Flood 1996 :166)
  3. Sanderson 2012–2013, pp. 4-5, 11, 57.
  4. Sanderson 2012–2013, pp. 57–65.
  5. Sanderson 2012–2013, pp. 59–60, 68.
  6. Flood 1996 , p. 166
  7. Mallinson 2011 , pp. 770, 774
  8. Muller-Ortega 1989, p. 59
  9. Muller-Ortega 1989, p. 100
  10. Flood 1996
  11. Muller-Ortega 1989, p. 102
  12. Flood 1996, p. 166
  13. Tantrāloka, Chapter 29, śl. 10
  14. Dupuche 2003, p. 87
  15. Dupuche 2003, p. 84
  16. Dupuche 2003, p. 84
  17. Dupuche 2003, p. 87
  18. Dupuche 2003, p. 182
  19. Dupuche 2003, p. 104
  20. Dupuche 2003, p. 183
  21. Muller-Ortega 1989, p. 59
  22. Silburn 1988
  23. Lakshman Joo 1988, p. 3, 9
  24. Muller-Ortega 1989, p. 60
  25. Khe carati iti kechar[ii], Parā-trīśikā Vivaraṇa, Jaideva Singh, page 5
  26. Śiva Sutras of Vasugupta, Cap II, Verse 5
  27. Dupuche 2003, p. 157
  28. Muller-Ortega 1989, p. 166
  29. Muller-Ortega 1989, p. 62
  30. Muller-Ortega 1989, p. 59
  31. Khe carati iti kechar[ii], Singh 2005, p. 5
  32. Touched By Fire, The Ongoing Journey Of A Spiritual Seeker, Pandit Rajmani Tigunait, Pandit Rajmani Tigunait, Ph.D., Rajmani Tigunait, page 188
  33. Muller-Ortega 1989, p. 14
  34. Silburn 1988, pp. 177-178
  35. Muller-Ortega 1989, pp. 58, 61
  36. The Cultural Heritage of India, Haridāsa Bhaṭṭācāryya, Ramakrishna Mission Institute of Culture, Page 521
  37. Muller-Ortega 1989, p. 61
  38. Muller-Ortega 1989, p. 62
  39. Muller-Ortega 1989, p. 62
  40. Dupuche 2003, p. 127
  41. Luce dei Tantra: Tantrāloka, Abhinavagupta, translation by Raniero Gnoli
  42. Tantraloka by Abhinavagupta Cap28.v373–v380
  43. Muller-Ortega 1989, p. 61
  44. Lakshman Joo 1988, p. 29
  45. Muller-Ortega 1989, p. 97
  46. Muller-Ortega 1989, p. 59
  47. Dupuche 2003, p. 117
  48. Dupuche 2003, p. 119
  49. Dupuche 2003, p. 119
  50. Dupuche 2003, p. 120
  51. Dupuche 2003, p. 123
  52. Muller-Ortega 1989, p. 59
  53. Muller-Ortega 1989, p. 60
  54. Muller-Ortega 1989, p. 60
  55. Singh 2005, p. 6
  56. Singh 2005, p. 34
  57. Muller-Ortega 1989, p. 60
  58. Muller-Ortega 1989, p. 60
  59. Tantraloka by Abhinavagupta Cap. 29 Verse. 116-117a
  60. Dupuche 2003, p. 114
  61. Silburn 1988, p. 160
  62. Singh 2005, p. 45
  63. Dupuche 2003, p. 136
  64. Dupuche 2003, p. 102
  65. Dupuche 2003, p. 82
  66. See Sexual sublimation, Ojas and Visarga
  67. Dupuche 2003, p. 263
  68. Dupuche 2003, p. 263
  69. Dupuche 2003, p. 261,263
  70. Silburn 1988, p. 187
  71. Dupuche 2003, p. 268
  72. Muller-Ortega 1989, p. 62
  73. Dupuche 2003, p. 82
  74. Muller-Ortega 1989, p. 63
  75. Dupuche 2003, p. 81
  76. Dupuche 2003, p. 117
  77. Muller-Ortega 1989, p. 60
  78. Dupuche 2003, p. 80
  79. Muller-Ortega 1989, p. 59
  80. Muller-Ortega 1989, p. 59
  81. The Yoga of Kashmir Shaivism, Consciousness is Everything, Swami Shankarananda
  82. Pandit 2003, p. 109
  83. Singh 2005, p. 5, 31
  84. Singh 2005, p. 34
  85. Muller-Ortega 1989, p. 137
  86. Muller-Ortega 1989, p. 78
  87. Muller-Ortega 1989, p. 72
  88. Singh 2005, p. 34
  89. Singh 2005, p. 77
  90. Muller-Ortega 1989, pp. 57-58.

Works cited

  • Dupuche, John R. (2003), Abhinavagupta: The Kula Ritual, as Elaborated in Chapter 29 of the Tantrāloka, Motilal Banarsidass Publishers, ISBN   81-208-1979-9 .
  • (2020), "A Spirituality of Pleasure: The 'Thousand-Year' Intercourse of Śiva and Śakti", in Epple, Nicol Michelle; Shining, Phil (eds.), Exploring Sexuality and Spirituality: An Introduction to an Interdisciplinary Field, At the Interface/Probing the Boundaries, vol. 132, Leiden and Boston: Brill Publishers, pp. 131–162, doi:10.1163/9789004437869_005, ISBN   978-90-04-43079-2, ISSN   1570-7113, LCCN   2020028860, S2CID   242423110
  • Flood, Gavin D. (1996), An Introduction to Hinduism , Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, ISBN   0-521-43878-0.
  • Lakshman Joo, Swami (1988), Kashmir Shaivism: The Secret Supreme, SUNY Press, ISBN   0-88706-575-9.
  • Mallinson, James (2011), "Yoga: Haṭha Yoga", in Basu, Helene; Jacobsen, Knut A.; Malinar, Angelika; Narayanan, Vasudha (eds.), Brill's Encyclopedia of Hinduism, vol. 3, Leiden: Brill Publishers, pp. 770–781, doi:10.1163/2212-5019_BEH_COM_000354, ISBN   978-90-04-17641-6, ISSN   2212-5019 via Academia.edu
  • Muller-Ortega, Paul (1989), The Triadic Heart of Siva, Albany: State University of New York Press, ISBN   0-88706-787-5.
  • Pandit, Moti Lal (2003), Trika Saivism of Kashmir, New Delhi: Munshiram Manoharlal, ISBN   81-215-1082-1.
  • Sanderson, Alexis (2012–2013), "The Śaiva Literature" (PDF), Journal of Indological Studies (24 & 25), archived from the original (PDF) on 2016-03-04.
  • Silburn, Lilian (1988), Kuṇḍalinī: The Energy of the Depths, State University of New York Press, ISBN   978-0887068003.
  • Singh, Jaideva; Swami Lakshman Joo; Bettina Baumer (2005), Paratrisika Vivarana by Abhinavagupta: The Secret of Tantric Mysticism, Motilal Banarsidass Publishers (Pvt. Ltd), ISBN   81-208-0472-4.