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| shaiva tantra: Kashmir Shaivism John Hughes, 2007 |
| shaiva tantra: Tantra Illuminated Christopher D. Wallis, 2013 This book takes readers on a fascinating journey to the very heart of Tantra: its key teachings, foundational lineages, and transformative practices. Since the West's discovery of Tantra 100 years ago, there has been considerable fascination, speculation, and more than a little misinformation about this spiritual movement. Now, for the first time in the English language, Tantra Illuminated presents an accessible introduction to this sacred tradition that began 1,500 years ago, in the far north of India. The book uses translations from primary Sanskrit sources, offers a profound look at spiritual practice, and reveals Tantra's rich history and powerful teachings. |
| shaiva tantra: Light on Tantra in Kashmir Shaivism: Swami Lakshmanjoo, 2017-09-23 This profound text is concerned with the philosophy and practice known as Kashmir Shaivism. On account of its size and scope it is a veritable encyclopedia of non-dual Shaivism.Why was the Tantraloka written? In answer to this question Abhinavagupta tells us that, although in the schools of Kashmir Shaivism there are many wonderful and important ways and methods for attaining the supreme reality, yet in his time not even one was still existing. All of those ways and methods were lost. It is for this reason that he was requested by his colleagues and disciples to create a text that would illuminate and clarify all of these ways and methods of Kashmir Shaivism. To accomplish this, Abhinavagupta composed the Tantraloka, a text, which he tells us is filled with the complete explanation of the ways and methods associated with Kashmir Shaivism. That is to say that the philosophical understanding on the level of the intellect might have been existing, but the actual practical means or methods to be used to attain the supreme reality - oneness with Universal Being - to which they all pointed was lost. Abhinavagupta was intent, therefore, to revive the true understanding of these very important teachings, to make the practices that they embodied live again. For what is the use of a map if you have no way to reach the destination? Thus, Abhinavagupta gave us the Tantraloka to remedy this situation.The Tantraloka is composed of thirty seven chapters (ahnikas). Each chapter has it's own distinct topic. In this present volume - chapter one - Abhinavagupta lays the groundwork for the rest of his Tantraloka. Here are some of the topics Abhinavagupta examines in the first chapter: - The important Masters of the schools of Kashmir Shaivism. - The differentiated perception of all the means and methods (upayas). - The difference between knowledge, ignorance and liberation. - The essence of what is to be recognized, i.e., the real object to be known. - The oneness of Shiva and His energy (Shakti). - Introduction to the means and methods (upaya) for attaining full and pure knowledge where you perceive your nature as one with the universe. - True liberation in Kashmir Shaivism. - A discussion of the four states of means (upayas).- Three variations of absorption or trance (samavesha) as mentioned in the Malinivijaya Tantra. - The contents of each of the thirty seven chapters of Tantraloka. |
| shaiva tantra: Buddhist Tantra: Methodology and Historiography Pranshu Samdarshi, 2019-01-24 This book analyses our conventional ways of looking at Buddhism in general and Buddhist tantra in particular. It investigates how the frameworks and structures that were developed for European and Biblical studies have been deployed to interpret various facets of Buddhism. Many such models that still dominate the historical imagination of Buddhist studies have been examined in this book. This book also proposes an alternative approach towards the Buddhist studies and advocates incorporating the critical study of tantra texts from the perspective of traditional accounts. |
| shaiva tantra: Jnana Sankalini Tantra Prajñānānanda (Paramahaṃsa), 2006 India is a civilisation of many images a culture of many visual feasts a tradition where th visible and the palpable are as important as the oral and the occurrent, where our highest truths are embodied in our kathas and gathas our songs and stories, where our temples are not only places of worship but equally a gallery of beautiful forms and figures where myth is as important as doctrine, where ancient memories are full of cherished narratives where mythic beings are real in many different ways and we enrich our lives by festivals which celebrate events from the lives of our mythic gods and goddesses and where knowledge is gained as much from itinerant performers as it is from learned discourses and where when the wind blows thorugh the Pipal tree is as if we hear the hymns of the Vedas. |
| shaiva tantra: The Yoga of Kashmir Shaivism Swami Shankarananda, 2016-01-01 Kashmir Shaivism is the study of consciousness. Consciousness is the most intimate experience of life the essence of life itself. Among the many spiritual traditions born and developed in India, one ancient philosophy-Kashmir Shaivism-has explored it completely. Consciousness is the most intimate experience of life, the essence of life itself. Among the many spiritual traditions born and developed in India, one ancient philosophy-Kashmir Shaivism-has explored it completely. Until now, Kashmir Shaivism was an esoteric field accessible only to a few scholars and other specialists. Here, for the first time, Swami Shankarananda, a Self-realised spiritual master, presents the wisdom of this powerful tradition in a form that will delight and inspire all spiritual seekers. He explores the teachings in rich detail, elucidating ideas and meditative practices while drawing upon a vast canvas of many great beings, wisdom traditions and personal experience. When Kashmir Shaivism is studied the way a subject at university is studied, it becomes a set of principles and concepts, which are rich and suggestive. But Kashmir Shaivism is not only food for the intellect. It also implies direct nurturance of the soul, the direct experience of consciousness itself. The goal of this book is to inspire spiritual seekers to make sure of the sublime methods and understandings of Shaivism in their own practice. The Yoga of Kashmir Shaivism is a book that will transform you. It is a resource and guides you towards investigating and deepening your own consciousness. |
| shaiva tantra: Tantra 2.0 Chaitanya Prabhu Hakkaladaddi, 2023-12-21 Get ready for a mindexpanding journey into the world of Tantra 2.0. In this groundbreaking book, the author combines his scientific background, journalistic expertise, and personal experiences to present Tantra Yoga in a fresh and accessible way. Say goodbye to vague spirituality and irrelevant symbolism as he guides you through the practice of Tantra with clarity and practicality. With over 25 years of writing and a deep passion for the Science of Consciousness, the author offers a unique perspective on this ancient practice. Prepare to transform your understanding and experience of Tantra with this thoughtprovoking and enlightening read. |
| shaiva tantra: Hellenic Tantra Gregory Shaw, 2024-02-13 Hellenic Tantra argues that scholarship on later Platonism has been misled by a dualist worldview. The theurgic Platonists in the school of Iamblichus (4th century CE) did not ascend out of their bodies to be united with the gods—as is the common belief—but allowed the gods to descend into their bodies. By comparing embodied deification in theurgy to Tantric traditions of embodied deification, Gregory Shaw allows us to understand the power and charisma of the last Platonic teachers. Hellenic Tantra reveals a living Platonism that has been hidden from us. |
| shaiva tantra: The Yoga of Kashmir Shaivism Swami Shankarananda, 2006 Consciousness is the most intimate experience of life the essence of life itself. among the many spiritual traditions born and developed in India one ancient philosophy-Kashmir Shaivism-has explored it completely. The Yoga of Kashmir Shaivism is a book that will transform you. It is a resource and guide towards investigating and deepening your own consciousness. |
| shaiva tantra: Principles of Tantra ... Shiva Chandra Vidyarnava Bhattacharya, 1916 |
| shaiva tantra: Secrets of Yantra, Mantra and Tantra L. R. Chawdhri, 1992 Unveiled in this book are the secrets of the occult sciences of Yantra, Mantra and Tantra to help the reader achieve worldly success and spiritual enlightenment. Detailed instructions are given for the preparation and application of Yantras for specific purposes: to win favours, defeat for selecting and using Mantras to attain miraculous powers, and fulfilment of one's desires, are explained in detail. In the Tantra section of the book, methods of treatment of diseases by herbs are given. Information is provided about Tantric articles and where to obtain them. |
| shaiva tantra: Divine Experiences Acarya Parameshvarananda Avadhuta, 2015-06-12 Divinity is a goal, a process, and an end in itself. The spiritual experiences of author Acarya Parameshvarananda Avadhuta, recounted in Divine Experiences, tell of this wondrous journey to divinity, a journey taken by both the disciple and the guru. Acarya Parameshvaranandas mystical experiences offer proof of a hidden world beyond matter, a world of light and indescribable bliss, a divine world beyond anything mortals have known. In Divine Experiences, he shares his fascinating spiritual journeya gripping account of his titanic struggles against the many tests, trials, and tribulations on the path and his victory in attaining the highest spiritual realizations. An extraordinary account of an extraordinary spiritual aspirant, this collection of memoirs takes us on an extraordinary journey beyond common experience. Investigating the inner world of mysticism and spirituality, Divine Experiences shares Acarya Parameshvaranandas spiritual experiences with spiritual aspirants and those with an interest in mysticism. |
| shaiva tantra: The Graceful Guru Karen Pechilis, 2004 A distinctive aspect of Hindu devotion is the veneration of a human guru, who is not only an exemplar and a teacher but is also understood to be an embodiment of the divine. Historically, the role of guru in the public domain has been exclusive to men. The new visibility of female gurus in India and the U.S. today, and indeed across the globe, has inspired this first-ever scholarly study of the origins, variety, and worldwide popularity of Hindu female gurus. In the Introduction, Karen Pechilis examines the historical emergence of Hindu female gurus with reference to the Hindu philosophy of the self, women spiritual exemplars as wives and saints, Tantric worship of the Goddess, and the internationalization of gurus in the U.S. in the twentieth century. Nine essays profile specific female gurus, presenting biographies of these remarkable women while highlighting overarching issues and themes concerning women's status as religious leaders; these themes are nuanced in the afterword to the volume. The essays explore how Hindu female gurus embody grace in both senses--as a feminine ideal and an attribute of the divine-and argue that their status as leaders is grounded in their negotiation of these two types of grace. This book provides biographical profiles of the following female gurus plus sensitive scholarly analysis of their spiritual paths: Ammachi, Anandamayi Ma, Gauri Ma, Gurumayi, Jayashri Ma, Karunamayi Ma, Ma Jaya Sati Bhagavati, Mother Meera, Shree Maa and Sita Devi. |
| shaiva tantra: Manoniyantran T.N. Achuta Rao, 2004-09 PRAYER PREFACE INTRODUCTION 1. MANOPRAPANCHA THE SENSATE OBJECTIVE WORLD Manoprapancha; Intelligence and Creativity; Self- Organisation; Free Will; Freedom. 2. MANAS MIND] What is Mind?; Where is Mind?; Where the Mind and Senses Cannot Reach; The Nature of Mind; Exploring the Human Mind; The Bhagavad Gita and Mind Control; Mind and Action; The Power of the Mind; The Vedantic View of Mind 3. PRAJNYA CONSCIOUSNESS] The Phenomena of Mind and Consciousness; Brain, Its Function in Relation to Mind; Consciousness; Quality Of Consciousness; Order and Harmony; Super-Consciousness; The Sub-Conscious Mind; The Un-conscious Mind; Levels of Consciousness. 4. JNYAAN KNOWLEDGE] Knowledge of the Self; Who am I?; What do I Want?; Integrated Personality; Fear. 5. BRAHM JNYAAN THE SUPREME-KNOWLEDE Knowledge of The Brahman; The Concept of Ishvara; Do We Need God? God Realisation and Self -Realisation; The Supreme Power, God; Prayer. 6. STORM IN A CUP OF TEA Dukhatrayas; Why Life is a Problem?; Food is Elusive; Problems o/Life; Marriage; Love and Marriage; Bliss and Blisters of Love Marriage; Success in Marriage, Role of Sex in Life; The Secret of Happiness in Life; Human Behaviour; Happiness and Success; Job Satisfaction, The Sensible Way of Living; Happiness in Family Life, Why Marital Discord and Divorce?; Parents and Children; Problems of Modern Day Life; Emotion; Depression and Suicide; Cheerful Disposition; Death and Immortality, What after Death? Professionul Excellence, . 7. THE ART OF CREATIVE LIVING The Concept of Maya or Illusion; Avidya or Nescience; The Source of Ignorance; Desire; Manonasha; The Gunas; Spiritual Healing and Touch Therapy; The Power of love; Love and Friendship; Love and Sex; The Ari-Shadvargas; The Concept of Yad bhavam tad bhavati, Methods of Mind Control; Thought Control Technique; Manoniyantrana Tantra Yoga for Mind Contro/}; What is Yoga?; Types of Yoga; Karma Yoga; Bhakti Yoga; Jnyana Yoga; The Absolute and the Relative; Raja Yoga; Asanas; Pranayama; Prana and Mind, Pranayama and Kundalini; Pratyahara and Dharana; Dharana, Japam and Dhyaan (Meditation); Dhyaan, Japam and Samaadhi; Samadhi (Sushupti; 9. MIND CONSOLE TECHNIQUES - MANTRA, YANTRA, AND TANTRA Mantra, its Significance; Om- Its significance The Gayatri Mantra; The Tanfras; Mauna, Its Significance; Transcendental Meditation Neuro-Linguistic Programme (NLP); Need for Spiritual Life; Peace and Happiness; 10. GOAL OF LIFE 11. CONCLUSION Think It Over ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Glossary INDEX |
| shaiva tantra: The Doctrine of Vibration Mark S. G. Dyczkowski, 1987-07-01 This book is significant from four points of view. First, it breaks new ground in Indian philosophy. According to the Spanda Doctrine, the self is not simply witnessing consciousness as maintained by Sankya and Vedanta, but is an active force. Second, the ultimate reality is not simply a logical system of abstract categories, but is living, pulsating energy, the source of all manifestation. Third, the work elaborates the dynamic aspect of consciousness. It supplies an excellent introduction to the texts and scriptures of Kashmir Shaivism. Fourth, it suggests a Yoga for the realization of self. |
| shaiva tantra: The Triadic Heart of Śiva Paul E. Muller-Ortega, 2010-03-31 This book explores one of the most explicit and sophisticated theoretical formulations of tantric yoga. It explains Abhinavagupta's teaching about the nature of ultimate reality, about the methods for experiencing this ultimate reality, and about the nature of the state of realization, a condition of embodied enlightenment. The author uncovers the conceptual matrix surrounding the practices of the Kaula lineage of Kashmir Shaivism. The primary textual basis for the book is provided by Abhinavagupta's Parātrīśikā-laghuvṛtti, a short meditation manual that centers on the symbolism of the Heart-mantra, SAUḤ. |
| shaiva tantra: A Trident of Wisdom Abhinavagupta, 1989-01-01 I have prepared a trident of Wisdom in order to cut asunder their bondage. -- Abhinavagupta This is a long commentary on a short Tantra. One of the most authoritative and venerated texts in Kashmir Shaivism, it deals with the nature of Ultimate Reality and with methods of realization focusing on the theory and practice of Mantra. Abhinavagupta presents his metaphysics of language, of the Word (Vak), and its relation to consciousness. He calls it, trikasastra-rahasya-upadesa: The teaching of the secret of the Trika doctrine. |
| shaiva tantra: The Shiva-suṭra-vimarṣinī of Kṣēmarāja Kṣemarāja, P. T. Shrinivas Iyengar, 1912 |
| shaiva tantra: Vāc André Padoux, 1990 This book is about the power of the Word conceived as the main and most effective aspect of divine energy. It is the only systematic study in English of notions concerning the Word (Vac) as these are expounded in the shaiva tantras of Kashmir and in related texts. Padoux first describes the Vedic origins of these notions, then their development in texts of different tantric traditions. He shows how different levels of the Word abide in humans, how these levels are linked to the kun, and how they develop into articulate speech and discursive thought. He also describes how the universe is created out of the letters of the alphabet. The last two chapters explain the powers of mantras as sacred ritual utterances. These powers are described as magical as well as religious, because they can achieve supernatural results as well as lead to salvation. Their uses are linked to yogic mental and bodily practices. |
| shaiva tantra: The Abode of Mahashiva Madhu Jaina, 1995 Saivism as practised in Jaunsar-Bawar, India; a study. |
| shaiva tantra: Dictionary of Indology Vishnulok Bihari Srivastava, 2009 This English-Hindi-Dictionary will fulfil the academic and writing requirements of students, researchers, scholars, translators, educationists, and writers. For improved usefulness, 'Words or Terms' have been drawn from literature, science, geography, commerce & business etc. 'Words or Terms' come tagged with explanatory meaning in Hindi alone but with a sentence in English only, for clear understanding for use in speaking or writing. Terms have been serialized in Alphabetical order, i.e., A-Z for ease in searching. Terms carry meaning in English and Hindi. To the extent possible, 'Words or Terms' used in common parlance have been included, avoiding less frequent ones. In the Appendices section, body parts, common ailments, apparel, cereals, fruit & vegetables, herbs & spices, and household items etc have been included for additional reference giving an added touch of comprehensiveness. This dictionary will prove useful for student community besides others such as, educationists, writers, translators and common man. #v&spublishers |
| shaiva tantra: Siddhis (Supernatural Powers) Prof. (Dr.) Jai Paul Dudeja, 2023-11-02 The Sanskrit word for ‘Siddhi’ means “perfection,” “accomplishment” or “success”. It refers to the fact that siddhis are the fruit of the perfect achievement of spiritual practices. Siddhis are generally the powers to control the self, control others and control the natural world. Although siddhis appear to be supernatural, they are actually accessible to all humans in this birth itself. They arise naturally when, through spiritual practices etc., the emptiness and openness of the mind is realized.A Siddha means ‘realized, perfected person,’ a term generally applied to a practitioner who has, through his practice, realized his dual goals of siddhis and body-immortality. The most authentic text sources for attaining Siddhis are: (i) ‘Yoga Sutras of Patanjali’, (ii) Srimad Bhagavantam, and (iii) Kashmir Shaivism (in Hinduism); (iv) ‘The Visuddhimagga’ (the Path of Purification), through Kasina Meditation (in Buddhism), (v) ‘Atma Siddhi Shastra’, (in Jainism), which includes Labdhis, and (vi) ‘Sri Guru Granth Sahib’ (in Sikhism), besides many other texts like Hanuman Chalisa, Samkhya Philosophy etc. These concepts of Siddhis, are explained in details, in this book consisting of twelve chapters. The book is strongly supported by over 110 verses in Sanskrit (shlokas) along with their Roman script, translation and explanation in English language. This Book is humbly dedicated to Maharishi Patanjali, Author of Patanjali Yoga Sutras. |
| shaiva tantra: Dictionary of Indology Dr. Vishnulok Bihari Srivastava, 2012-04-01 Dictionary of Indology presents the history of Indian Scriptures, Language, Literature and Humanities in all the forms, colours and dimensions; not graphically but alphabetically; from the most primitive time to the recent past; through detailed description of and references to, almost all the books available and the authors known in both Vedic and Laukika Samskrit. It deals mostly with the facts but some critical insight is also given wherever needed or necessary. Such a handy book was the need of the time as most of us are unfamiliar with most of the stupendous works by intellectual doyens. A familiarity and affection will instantly grow, which will bring the readers close to the richest and widest range of illuminating products of sublime minds. |
| shaiva tantra: Yoga Therapy Foundations, Tools, and Practice Laurie Hyland Robertson, Diane Finlayson, 2021-06-21 Providing essential support to schools and universities that offer yoga therapy training programs, this comprehensive, edited textbook develops robust curricula, enabling them to prepare yoga therapists to integrate into healthcare settings safely and effectively. The book includes a large and international list of contributors from diverse lineages and backgrounds such as Matthew Taylor, Gail Parker and Steffany Moonaz, and is the first resource on yoga therapy that aligns with the educationl competencies of the International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT). It covers yoga foundations (philosophical background, ayurveda, tantra), biomedical and psychological foundations, yoga therapy tools and therapeutic skills, yogic and biopsychosocial-spiritual assessments, and professional practices. As the field of yoga therapy continues to root and grow, this book is essential for both new yoga therapy practitioners, and for schools developing training programs. |
| shaiva tantra: A Lamp unto Yourself C. Pierce Salguero, 2025-04-22 For “spiritual explorers” ready to travel beyond Western bounds, a beginner’s guide to Asian spiritual traditions spanning regions, cultures, and history Asian spiritual practices, from yoga and tai chi to qigong and mindfulness meditations, permeate our culture. But these practices are often casually used in the West, and sometimes little understood. As informative as it is inviting, A Lamp unto Yourself introduces “spiritual explorers” of all experience levels to embodied Eastern spiritual practices. Employing decades of personal and professional experience with Asian spiritualities, C. Pierce Salguero explains the origins of key Asian spiritual practices. He grounds them in their historical and philosophical contexts and provides information on how the reader can begin and deepen their personal practices. Salguero also discusses the focus of the path (heart, body, or perception) and describes what one might experience as they develop their practice. In A Lamp unto Yourself, readers will learn more about such traditions as mindfulness meditation, insight meditation, and loving-kindness meditation yogas, tai chi, and qigong Taoism and Advaita mantras, chakras, and tantra Those looking to begin practicing for the first time or to simply expand their ever-growing spiritual tool kits will feel empowered to explore Eastern spirituality with knowledge and autonomy. With Salguero as their guide, readers can confidently embark on their journeys to becoming, as Buddha would encourage, a lamp unto themselves. |
| shaiva tantra: Buddhist Art & Antiquities of Himachal Pradesh, Upto 8th Century A.D. Omacanda Hāṇḍā, 1994 This book is devoted to explore and critically examine the art and antiquities of Buddhism on the basis of different archaeological evidences. |
| shaiva tantra: Near Enemies of the Truth Christopher D. Wallis, 2023-11-14 Tantric philosopher and Oxford scholar Christopher Wallis calls out the seemingly helpful spiritual teachings dominating our current culture and demonstrates how these near truths stand in the way of a more radically free and meaningful life—and ultimately, a deeper spiritual awakening. Have you ever been told, “You create your own reality”? Have you been encouraged to “be your best self” or “follow your bliss”? Nowadays these slogans are everywhere, but what if they’re doing more harm than good? After over thirty years as a scholar-practitioner of meditation and Tantric philosophy, acclaimed author Christopher Wallis (also known as Hareesh) explores the most widespread distortions of spiritual teachings present in our world today. Rooted in the Asian wisdom traditions, Wallis’s book uncovers why these oft-heard platitudes are “near enemies” to the truth, often detour us off the spiritual path, and can even cause unnecessary suffering. In asking us to question what we’ve accepted as “truth,” Wallis reveals how teachings like “become the best version of yourself” may have helped us at one stage in our journey but can ultimately lead us away from self-acceptance and compassion and cause us to prioritize an imagined ideal over true intimacy with reality. Understanding the near enemies is vital for any spiritual seeker who is ready to create a deeper, more fulfilling practice and will help you: Distinguish between truth and beliefCommunicate more authentically with loved onesSet healthier boundariesBe in greater harmony with realityPractice radical self-acceptance Near Enemies of the Truth offers itself as a guide to the pitfalls of the spiritual life. However, it doesn’t focus on the negative. In each chapter, after pointing out how a spiritual teaching can be construed in a non-beneficial way, Wallis focuses on the deeper truth and ancient wisdom underlying that teaching, which is often obscured by its popular bumper-sticker version. Each chapter contains a supportive insight for your spiritual process and/or for your everyday life, including guided meditations and reflections. Written in a gentle and encouraging tone, this book offers a wealth of insight and guidance for anyone who finds themselves struggling, reaching a spiritual plateau, or simply seeking a more meaningful way forward. This timely companion will help you think differently and see through the smokescreens to what is true. |
| shaiva tantra: An Indian Tantric Tradition and Its Modern Global Revival D.E. Osto, 2020-03-06 This book analyzes the contemporary global revival of Nondual Śaivism, a thousand-year-old medieval Hindu religious philosophy. Providing a historical overview of the seminal people and groups responsible for the revival, the book compares the tradition’s medieval Indian origins to modern forms, which are situated within distinctively contemporary religious, economic and technological contexts. The author bridges the current gap in the literature between insider (emic) and outsider” (etic) perspectives by examining modern Nondual Śaivism from multiple standpoints as both a critical scholar of religion and an empathetic participant-observer. The book explores modern Nondual Śaivism in relation to recent scholarly debates concerning the legitimacy of New Age consumptive spirituality, the global spiritual marketplace and the contemporary culture of narcissism. It also analyzes the dark side of the revived tradition, and investigates contemporary teachers accused of sexual abuse and illegal financial activities in relation to unique features of Nondual Śaivism’s theosophy and modern scholarship on new religious movements (NRMs) and cults. This book shows that, although Kashmir Śaivism has been adopted by certain teachers and groups to market their own brand of High Tantra, some contemporary practitioners have remained true to the system’s fundamental tenets and teach authentic (albeit modern) forms of Nondual Śaivism. This book will be of interest to academics in the fields of religion and Asian philosophies, especially South Asian, tantric, neo-tantric and yoga philosophies, alternative and New Age spiritualities, religion and consumerism, and NRMs and cults. Winner of the inaugural 2021 New Zealand Asia Society Book Award, second prize. |
| shaiva tantra: Hinduism in the Modern World Brian A. Hatcher, 2015-10-05 Hinduism in the Modern World presents a new and unprecedented attempt to survey the nature, range, and significance of modern and contemporary Hinduism in South Asia and the global diaspora. Organized to reflect the direction of recent scholarly research, this volume breaks with earlier texts on this subject by seeking to overcome a misleading dichotomy between an elite, intellectualist modern Hinduism and the rest of what has so often been misleadingly termed traditional or popular Hinduism. Without neglecting the significance of modern reformist visions of Hinduism, this book reconceptualizes the meaning of modern Hinduism both by expanding its content and by situating its expression within a larger framework of history, ethnography, and contemporary critical theory. This volume equips undergraduate readers with the tools necessary to appreciate the richness and diversity of Hinduism as it has developed during the past two centuries. |
| shaiva tantra: Shakti and Shâkta Sir John George Woodroffe, 1920 |
| shaiva tantra: A History of Ancient and Early Medieval India Upinder Singh, 2008 Basic Approach Developed as a comprehensive introductory work for scholars and students of ancient and early medieval Indian history, this books provides the most exhaustive overview of the subject. Dividing the vast historical expanse from the stone age to the 12th century into broad chronological units, it constructs profiles of various geographical regions of the subcontinent, weaving together and analysing an unparalleled range of literary and archaeological evidence. Dealing with prehistory and protohistory of the subcontinent in considerable detail, the narrative of the historical period breaks away from conventional text-based history writing. Providing a window into the world primary sources, it incorporates a large volume of archaeological data, along with literary, epigraphic, and numismatic evidence. Revealing the ways in which our past is constructed, it explains fundamental concepts, and illuminates contemporary debates, discoveries, and research. Situating prevailing historical debates in their contexts, Ancient and Early Medieval India presents balanced assessments, encouraging readers to independently evaluate theories, evidence, and arguments. Beautifully illustrated with over four hundred photographs, maps, and figures, Ancient and Early Medieval India helps visualize and understand the extraordinarily rich and varied remains of the ancient past of Indian subcontinent. It offers a scholarly and nuanced yet lucid account of India s early past, and will surely transform the discovery of this past into an exciting experience. Tabel of Contents List of photographs List of maps List of figures About the author Preface Acknowledgements A readers guide 1. Understanding Literary and Archaeological Sources 2. Hunter-Gatherers of the Palaeolithic and Mesolithic Ages 3. The Transition to Food Production: Neolithic,Neolithic Chalcolithic, and Chalcolithic Villages, c. 7000 2000 bce 4. The Harappan Civilization, c. 2600 1900 bce 5. Cultural Transitions: Images from Texts and Archaeology, c. 2000 600 bce 6. Cities, Kings, and Renunciants: North India, c. 600 300 bce 7. Power and Piety: The Maurya Empire, c. 324 187 bce 8. Interaction and Innovation, c. 200 BCE 300 ce 9. Aesthetics and Empire, c. 300 600 ce 10. Emerging Regional Configurations, c. 600 1200 ce Note on diacritics Glossary Further readings References Index Author Bio Upinder Singh is Professor in the Department of History at the University of Delhi. She taught history at St. Stephen s College, Delhi, from 1981 until 2004, after which she joined the faculty of the Department of History at the University of Delhi. Professor Singh s wide range of research interests and expertise include the analysis of ancient and early medieval inscriptions; social and economic history; religious institutions and patrona≥ history of archaeology; and modern history of ancient monuments. Her research papers have been published in various national and international journals. Her published books include: Kings, Brahmanas, and Temples in Orissa: An Epigraphic Study (AD 300 1147) (1994); Ancient Delhi (1999; 2nd edn., 2006); a book for children, Mysteries of the Past: Archaeological Sites in India (2002); The Discovery of Ancient India: Early Archaeologists and the Beginnings of Archaeology (2004); and Delhi: Ancient History (edited, 2006). |
| shaiva tantra: Awakening Shakti Sally Kempton, 2013-02-01 How do you live a life of spiritual awakening as well as outer abundance, inner freedom as well as deep intimacy? How do you serve the world selflessly, yet passionately celebrate your life? The sages of Tantra have known for centuries that when you follow the path of Shakti—the sacred feminine principle personified by the goddesses of yoga—these gifts can manifest spontaneously. Yet most of us, women as well as men, have yet to experience the full potential of our inner feminine energies. When you know these powers for what they are, they heighten your capacity to open spiritually, love more deeply and fearlessly, create with greater mastery, and move through the world with skill and delight. In Awakening Shakti, you will learn how to recognize and invite: Kali, bringer of strength, fierce love, and untamed freedomLakshmi, who confers prosperity and beautySaraswati, for clarity of communication and intuitionRadha, who carries the divine energy of spiritual longingBhuvaneshvari, who creates the space for sacred transformationParvati, to awaken creativity and the capacity to love With a wealth of meditations, visualizations, mantras, teachings, and beautifully told stories, Awakening Shakti provides a practical guide for activating the currents of the divine feminine in every aspect of your life. “Sally Kempton's new book is a treasure that brings myth, meditation, and everyday revelation together in a way that will allow every woman to embody the divine feminine in her life. Sally enlivens the full spectrum of the goddess—from independent protector, to lover, to dynamic and powerful creatrix. I highly recommend this soon-to-be classic!” —Shiva Rea, yogini “Sally Kempton has given us a mythic manual for a new kind of feminism—a feminism of the soul. And this is a good thing, because humanity needs feminine power now as both a healing tonic and a source of reinvention.” —Elizabeth Lesser, cofounder of the Omega Institute, author of Broken Open: How Difficult Times Can Help Us Grow |
| shaiva tantra: The Supreme Art and Science of Raja and Kriya Yoga Stephen Sturgess, 2015-05-21 This unique book is a complete guide to spiritual Raja and Kriya Yoga. Beginning with historical and spiritual accounts of all Yoga traditions, it covers Raja and Kriya Yoga in depth, with instruction on the asanas, breathing techniques and meditations. The book is an invaluable resource for yoga practitioners, as well as spiritual seekers. |
| shaiva tantra: Goddess Beyond Boundaries Tracy Pintchman, 2024-09-20 Tracy Pintchman sheds light on the spiritual creativity and religious life of the Parashakthi Temple in Pontiac, Michigan. Drawing on fifteen years of field research, Pintchman reveals how Karumariamman, the goddess honored by the temple, embodies the border-and-boundary-crossing dynamics of the lives of many of the congregants who worship at her temple, which in turn has become a site of religious innovation. |
| shaiva tantra: Demystifying Brahminism and Re-Inventing Hinduism Satya Shri, There is nothing more miserable than to feel that emancipation is in the air and yet suffer the slavery of a mistaken idea. The author seeks to re-invent Hinduism by bringing to the fore its most fundamental postulates as: 1. Worship of the monotheistic formless Brahm. 2. God-realisation through Nishkam Sewa (selfless service). 3. Social equality and brotherhood (vasudhaiva kutumbakam). 4. Self-realisation through Jnana Yoga, Karma Yoga and Bhakti Yoga. 5. Salvation through worldly life of Purushaarth (Dharm, Arth, Kaam, Moksha). 'EK Samaj' repudiates the following attributes as excrescences and repugnant to the faith: 1. Mixing philosophy and religion made Hinduism an unorganised religion. 2. Worshipping numerous deities and limiting religious service to mere darshan of the idols fragmented Hinduism. 3. Hereditary priesthood, as permanent intermediaries for communion with God, polluted the religion. 4. Occupational ‘purity’ and ‘pollution’ camouflaged iniquitous social divisions. 5. Individual instead of congregational worship smothered Hindu brotherhood. 6. Pretensions of attaining Siddhis through ‘meditation and penances’ eulogised. 7. Escapism in worldly renunciation honoured. 8. Fatalist karma theory made Hindus pessimistic and other-worldly. 9. Transmigration, reincarnation, 84-lakh births used as props for gradation of castes. 10. Acceptance of Ahimsa made Hindus a doormat for the ruthless barbarians. 11. Karma kand and Mantra, Tantra, Yantra etc. justified as the sole religious expressions. 12. Lack of proselytisation prevented Hinduism from becoming a world religion. 13. Devdasi tradition made temples the venues of entertainment and recreation. |
| shaiva tantra: The Goddess in Hindu-Tantric Traditions Anway Mukhopadhyay, 2018-04-20 The Great Goddess, in her various puranic and tantric forms, is often figured as sitting on a corpse which is identified as Shiva-as-shava (God Shiva, the consort of the Devi and an iconic representation of the Absolute without attributes, the Nirguna Brahman). Hence, most of the existing critical works and ethnographic studies on Shaktism and the tantras have focused on the theological and symbolic paraphernalia of the corpses which operate as the asanas (seats) of the Devi in her various iconographies. This book explores the figurations of the Goddess as corpse in several Hindu puranic and Shakta-tantric texts, popular practices, folk belief systems, legends and various other cultural phenomena based on this motif. It deals with a more intricate and fundamental issue than existing works on the subject: how and why is the Devi – herself - figured as a corpse in the Shakta texts, belief systems and folk practices associated with the tantras? The issues which have been raised in this book include: how does death become a complement to life within this religious epistemology? How does one learn to live with death, thereby lending new definitions and new epistemic and existential dimensions to life and death? And what is the relation between death and gender within this kind of figuration of the Goddess as death and dead body? Analysing multiple mythic narratives, hymns and scriptural texts where the Devi herself is said to take the form of the Shava (the corpse) as well as the Shakti who animates dead matter, this book focuses not only on the concept of the theological equivalence of the Shava (Shiva as corpse) and the Shakti (Energy) in tantras but also on the status of the Divine Mother as the Great Bridge between the apparently irreconcilable opposites, the mediatrix between Spirit and Matter, death and life, existence-in-stasis and existence-in-kinesis. This book makes an important contribution to the fields of Hindu Studies, Goddess Spirituality, South Asian Religions, Women and Religion, India, Studies in Shaktism and Tantra, Cross-cultural Religious Studies, Gender Studies, Postcolonial Spirituality and Ecofeminism. |
| shaiva tantra: Yes I am the Creator Ashish Dwivedi, 2023-08-31 Step into a realm where the fabric of the universe bends to your will, unlocking powers within you that transcend the ordinary. Yes I Am The Creator invites you on an awe-inspiring journey of transformation, empowering you to manifest your dream life you've always yearned for. Through these pages, discover the secrets to tapping into your boundless potential and embracing the extraordinary being within. Cast aside societal conditioning and self-limiting beliefs, and elevate your vibrations to new heights. As you delve deep into your essence, a profound metamorphosis awaits. This isn't your typical self-help book—it's a life-altering literary odyssey. With each revelation, witness the miraculous unfolding of health, wealth, career, and relationships aligning with your cherished dreams. As you walk the path to success, your unwavering peace will shine as a testament to the wonders you create. This book's impact reaches deep into your soul, etching a lasting imprint. You will embrace your true potential and become the master architect of your reality. With this book, you'll rise as the unstoppable creator of a world that defies imagination. |
| shaiva tantra: Shiva David Frawley, 2015-08-14 Lord Shiva is the personification of all the main practices of Yoga, as the origin and ruling power over asana, prana, mantra, inner seeing and meditation. The current book unfolds the presence, light, energy and consciousness of the Supreme Shiva to take us beyond all death and duality. |
| shaiva tantra: Eloquent Spaces Shonaleeka Kaul, 2019-04-25 Eloquent Spaces adopts the twin analytic of meaning and community to write a fresh history of building in early India. It presents a new perspective on the principles and practices of early Indian architecture. Defining it broadly over a range of space uses, the book argues for architecture as a form of cultural production as well as public consumption. Ten chapters by leading archaeologists, architects, historians and philosophers, examining different architectural sites and landscapes, including Sanchi, Moodabidri, Srinagar, Chidambaram, Patan, Konark, Basgo and Puri, demonstrate the need to look beyond the built form to its spirit, beyond aesthetics to cognition, and thereby to integrating architecture with its myriad living contexts. The volume captures some of the semantic diversity inherent in premodern Indian traditions of civic building, both sacred and secular, which were, however, unified in their insistence on enacting meaning and a transcendent validity over and above utility and beauty of form. The book is a quest for a culturally rooted architecture as an alternative to the growing crisis of disembededness that informs modern praxis. This volume will be of interest to scholars and practitioners of architecture, ancient Indian history, philosophy, art history and cultural studies. |
| shaiva tantra: Mountain, Water, Rock, God Luke Whitmore, 2018-11-27 A free ebook version of this title is available through Luminos, University of California Press’s Open Access publishing program. Visit www.luminosoa.org to learn more. In Mountain, Water, Rock, God, Luke Whitmore situates the disastrous flooding that fell on the Hindu Himalayan shrine of Kedarnath in 2013 within a broader religious and ecological context. Whitmore explores the longer story of this powerful realm of the Hindu god Shiva through a holistic theoretical perspective that integrates phenomenological and systems-based approaches to the study of religion, pilgrimage, place, and ecology. He argues that close attention to places of religious significance offers a model for thinking through connections between ritual, narrative, climate destabilization, tourism, development, and disaster, and he shows how these critical components of human life in the twenty-first century intersect in the human experience of place. |
Shaivism - Wikipedia
The Sanskrit word śaiva or shaiva means "relating to the god Shiva", [27] while the related beliefs, practices, history, literature and sub-traditions constitute Shaivism. [28]
Shaivism | God Shiva, Tantric Traditions, Vedic Rituals | Britannica
Shaivism, organized worship of the Indian god Shiva and, with Vaishnavism and Shaktism, one of the three principal forms of modern Hinduism. Shaivism includes such diverse movements as …
Shaiva, Śaiva, Śaivā: 22 definitions - Wisdom Library
May 8, 2025 · Shaiva (शैव, śaiva) or Shaivism (śaivism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshiping Shiva as the supreme being. Closely related to Shaktism, Shaiva literature includes …
Shaivism - New World Encyclopedia
Shaiva Siddhanta upholds the older Pashupata distinction between three eternal substrates: souls, God, and the physical world. Shiva, the supreme divine being, is the efficient cause of …
Kashmiri Shaiva Philosophy - Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy
Kashmiri Shaiva Philosophy. What is commonly called “Kashmiri Shaivism” is actually a group of several monistic and tantric religious traditions that flourished in Kashmir from the latter …
What Is Shaiva? – Dvapa Wisdom
Feb 17, 2025 · Shaiva devotees chant the Holy Five Syllables, Namah Shivaya, for at least five minutes a day and keep chanting it whenever possible throughout the day. This great mantra …
Hinduism: Shaivism - Encyclopedia.com
The primary difference in Shaivism lies in making Shiva the central deity as the origin, cause, and end of existence. According to one of the more developed and influential Shaivite schools, the …
Shaivism - The Spiritual Life
It is one of the largest sects that believe Shiva, worshipped as a creator and destroyer of worlds, is the supreme god over all. The Shaiva have many sub-traditions ranging from devotional …
Shaivism – Heart Of Hinduism - ISKCON Educational Services
Shaiva Asceticism. Shaiva has long been connected with rigorous asceticism. Well known are the naked Nagas. Many yogis are Shaivites. Prominent are the Nathapatnis, followers of …
Abhinavagupta and his work - The Philosophy of Kashmir Shaivism
ABHINAVAGUPTA (924-1020 CE)* was an illustrious Spiritual Master who injected new meaning into the Shaiva Philosophy, which 1,000 years later became more popularly known as Kashmir …
Shaivism - Wikipedia
The Sanskrit word śaiva or shaiva means "relating to the god Shiva", [27] while the related beliefs, practices, history, literature and sub-traditions constitute Shaivism. [28]
Shaivism | God Shiva, Tantric Traditions, Vedic Rituals | Britannica
Shaivism, organized worship of the Indian god Shiva and, with Vaishnavism and Shaktism, one of the three principal forms of modern Hinduism. Shaivism includes such diverse movements as …
Shaiva, Śaiva, Śaivā: 22 definitions - Wisdom Library
May 8, 2025 · Shaiva (शैव, śaiva) or Shaivism (śaivism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshiping Shiva as the supreme being. Closely related to Shaktism, Shaiva literature includes …
Shaivism - New World Encyclopedia
Shaiva Siddhanta upholds the older Pashupata distinction between three eternal substrates: souls, God, and the physical world. Shiva, the supreme divine being, is the efficient cause of …
Kashmiri Shaiva Philosophy - Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy
Kashmiri Shaiva Philosophy. What is commonly called “Kashmiri Shaivism” is actually a group of several monistic and tantric religious traditions that flourished in Kashmir from the latter …
What Is Shaiva? – Dvapa Wisdom
Feb 17, 2025 · Shaiva devotees chant the Holy Five Syllables, Namah Shivaya, for at least five minutes a day and keep chanting it whenever possible throughout the day. This great mantra …
Hinduism: Shaivism - Encyclopedia.com
The primary difference in Shaivism lies in making Shiva the central deity as the origin, cause, and end of existence. According to one of the more developed and influential Shaivite schools, the …
Shaivism - The Spiritual Life
It is one of the largest sects that believe Shiva, worshipped as a creator and destroyer of worlds, is the supreme god over all. The Shaiva have many sub-traditions ranging from devotional …
Shaivism – Heart Of Hinduism - ISKCON Educational Services
Shaiva Asceticism. Shaiva has long been connected with rigorous asceticism. Well known are the naked Nagas. Many yogis are Shaivites. Prominent are the Nathapatnis, followers of …
Abhinavagupta and his work - The Philosophy of Kashmir Shaivism
ABHINAVAGUPTA (924-1020 CE)* was an illustrious Spiritual Master who injected new meaning into the Shaiva Philosophy, which 1,000 years later became more popularly known as Kashmir …
