Essay name: Shaiva Tantra: A way of Self-awareness
Author:
L. N. Sharma
Affiliation: Banaras Hindu University / Department of Philosophy and Religion
This essay studies Shaiva Tantra and Tantric philosophies which have evolved from ancient cultural practices and represents a way of Self-awareness. Saiva Tantra emphasizes the individual's journey to transcendence through inner and external sacrifices, integrating various traditions while aiming for an uncreated, harmonious state.
Chapter 6 - On Mandala (mystical diagram)
10 (of 20)
External source: Shodhganga (Repository of Indian theses)
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these qualities are placed starting from SE angle to NE. The four opposite
attributes are seen on
..
In accordance with a vision
the sides corresponding to the cardinal points
of the knot of mandala, starting from E to N.
of this mandala of trident, the endeavour of the Saivite concerning the
mayic knot is to turn this central square (named also quadrilateral
base) 90° round, such as its angles will replace the sides barring the
ascendent way of kundalini. The four negative attributes of mind, viz.
adharma, ajnana, avairagya and anaisvarya, have to be removed starting
from the east to the north. Afterwards the Saivite must meditate on the
four bands (gatraka) that adorn Siva's throne from angle to angle uniting
the four cardinal points, beginning with the orient (KsemarÄja, SvT, II,
63: simhasanapattikarupah; and in NT, XVIII, 41: gatrakÄni koṇÄntarÄlagÄ
avayavavisesah, etc.). The gatrakas are white according to SVT and they
are seen yellow in NT. Within the quadrilateral base between the knot
of maya and the trident there is the category of wisdom with two veils.
It has to be meditated upon in the interval between the tongue and
Brahma's foramen. Inside it, Isvara appeares in the form of a lotus in
bloom, with a rich wreath, stamens and seeds.
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The eight powers in progressive order, viz. Vama,
Jyestha, Raudri, KÄlÄ«, KÄlavikaraṇÄ�, BalavikaraṇÄ�, BalapramathinÄ« and
Sarvabhutadamani reside in the petals of the lotus, starting from the
east. The ninth power, Manonmani, resides in the center of the lotus.
The other nine power, viz. Vibhvi, Jnani, Kriya, Iccha, Vägisi, JvÄlinÄ«,
Vama, Jyestha and Raudri are disposed in the opposite directions and
symbolize the time which burns and devours everything, like fire (MV,
VIII, 63-66a).
