Equanimity: Dharanas 100 and 101

 

Equanimity is a state of non-attachment, where one observes experiences without getting carried away by them. In Shaiva Tantra equanimity is also a pathway to deeper spiritual realization. Equanimity is cultivated through practices like self-reflection and cultivating awareness of one’s thoughts and emotions.

Vijnana Bhairava gives two Dharanas. Continue reading

Description of the Inner Self

The Yogic scriptures describe the human being as being composed of four bodies. At the center is the Self. Moving from outer to inner or the gross to the subtle. They are the physical body, the subtle body, the causal body and the supra-causal body. The attributes are kriya to the physical action, Gnana or knowledge, Iccha or will and desire and the most subtle, the state of the Self. Continue reading

Obstacles in the path of Moksha

In Shaivism, the term Mala refers to the obstructions which prevent the revelation of one’s true nature and spiritual liberation. Shaivism talks about three Malas, contraction or impurities, that afflict all of us as human beings. Mala refers to dust, dirt and impurity. Malas are those restricting conditions, both personal and impersonal, which hamper the free expression of the spirit. Continue reading

Shaivite Tradition

Shaivism is an ancient form Hinduism that focuses on the worship of Shiva. The term has been derived from the Sanskrit word Shiva, which refers to the Lord of destruction and transformation. Shaivites are devotees, who venerate Shiva and accept him as the Supreme God. They believe that he is responsible for creation, protection and destruction. He is portrayed as representing a fierce destroyer, an innocent, a granter of boons and a loving and compassionate husband. Shaivites strive to achieve liberation from the cycle of birth and death by living a life focused on Shiva and chanting mantras and hymns dedicated to him. Continue reading