Significance of Tantrashastra
Tantrashastra is a complex body of sacred texts that encompass a variety of teachings, rituals, and philosophies throughout different traditions in India. It includes instructions on Tantric practices, worship of divine energies, and guidance for spiritual growth. Often misunderstood, Tantrashastra integrates aspects of Vedic texts and focuses on the esoteric, such as chakras and planetary motions. It serves as a significant scripture in Hinduism, detailing the paths for achieving spiritual realization and is essential for understanding the deeper aspects of Tantra and spirituality.
Synonyms: Tantra, Tantric tradition, Esoteric practices, Mysticism, Occultism
In Dutch: Tantrashastra; In German: Tantrashastra; In Finnish: Tantrashastra; In Spanish: Tantrashastra; In Swedish: Tantrashastra; In Malay: Tantrashastra; In French: Tantrashastra
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Tantrashastra'
Tantrashastra in Hinduism encompasses ancient scriptures detailing esoteric teachings, rituals, and philosophies aimed at spiritual realization. It involves the study of divine energies, chakras, and practices for enlightenment, often misunderstood due to its complexity.
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) A traditional Indian scripture that encompasses a range of practices, philosophies, and rituals aimed at spiritual realization and enlightenment.[1] (2) A significant and complex subject in the study of Indian scriptures, often misunderstood and ridiculed, that encompasses the science and application of Mantras.[2] (3) Tantra Shastra, or Agama, is a recognized Scripture of Hinduism based on Veda and Vedanta, involving various schools of doctrine and worship.[3] (4) A category of Indian scriptures that deal with ritual practices, philosophy, and spiritual techniques within the Tantrik tradition.[4] (5) Sacred texts within Tantrism that are more than mere sectarian scriptures and are indicative of a broader Brahmanical tradition.[5]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Sacred texts governing Tantric practices, which may contain both Vedic conformity and contradictions.[6] (2) A sacred text composed at the suggestion of Krishna, containing mantras and rituals intended to provide guidance for worship and spiritual growth.[7]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) A subsection of Jyotisha-Shastra dealing with planetary motions and natural astrology.[8]
The concept of Tantrashastra in local and regional sources
Tantrashastra encompasses spiritual practices and philosophies related to energy, rituals, meditation, and divine worship, offering a practical guide towards ultimate union with the Supreme Godhead and emphasizing esoteric understanding within texts like 'Savitri'.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Refers to the body of literature and practice concerning Tantric traditions and philosophies.[9] (2) An ancient Indian body of texts that offers a practical guide for spiritual practices, rituals, and the philosophy of Tantra.[10] (3) The scripture of Tantra that encompasses spiritual practices and philosophies about energy, power, and form.[11] (4) An esoteric spiritual philosophy explored within 'Savitri' which involves worship, meditation, and the understanding of the spiritual energies inherent in practices.[12] (5) A system of spiritual practices and texts that focus on rituals, meditation, and the worship of divine aspects, aiming for ultimate union with the Supreme Godhead.[13]