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The sri chakra as a symbol of the human body

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Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: The sri chakra as a symbol of the human body
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
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Original source:

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Author:

P.R. Krishnakumar


Ancient Science of Life:

(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)

Full text available for: The sri chakra as a symbol of the human body

Year: 1993

Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA


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Summary of article contents:

Introduction

The Sri Chakra is a revered Yantra integral to the worship of primordial energy, representing both a spiritual and symbolic connection to the human body. According to tantra sastra, humans are considered microcosms of the universe, encapsulating all the principles of existence and the supreme energy known as Sivasakti within themselves. This article explores this symbolism further and provides insight into the Bhavanopanishad Prayogavidhi, a meditation technique developed by Bhaskararaya that facilitates a deeper understanding of the relationship between the human body and the Sri Chakra.

Bhavanopanishad Prayogavidhi: Connection Between Body and Chakra

The Bhavanopanishad is a significant Shakta Upanishad that emphasizes the importance of the physical body, mind, and vital forces in the meditation practice. It outlines a sophisticated Buddhist meditative technique that connects various parts of the human body with corresponding powers represented in the Sri Chakra. This process involves a systematic contemplation that begins with the outermost elements of the Chakra, such as the nine siddhis, emotions, and deities linked to the human experience, and gradually progresses towards recognizing their innermost essence. The meditation seeks to identify and align the human body's various aspects with the divine energies encapsulated in the Sri Chakra, portraying the journey from the outer complexity of existence to the soul's inner purity and consciousness.

Conclusion

Through the meditation practice outlined in the Bhavanopanishad Prayogavidhi, practitioners aim to harmonize their existence with the cosmic principles represented by the Sri Chakra. This transformative process leads to a profound understanding of the divine connection that unites the individual with the universe. The culmination of this disciplined practice is the realization of absolute consciousness and bliss, wherein the aspirant learns to embrace both worldly experiences and spiritual liberation. Ultimately, the teachings emphasize the dual aims of enjoyment and liberation, guiding practitioners to engage with the world while remaining rooted in their spiritual essence.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is the main concept behind the Sri Chakra?

The Sri Chakra symbolizes the human body in its divine configuration, akin to a microcosm of the universe, representing inner energies and the supreme energy called Sivasakti.

How does Bhavanopanishad relate to the Sri Chakra meditation?

Bhavanopanishad details a meditation method where practitioners identify their body's parts with corresponding powers in the Sri Chakra, using deep meditation to connect physical and spiritual aspects.

What are the key components of the Sri Chakra's symbolism?

Sri Chakra's symbolism includes various circles, lotus petals, deities, and energies, depicting the human body's spiritual elements, psycho-physical centers, and corresponding divine powers.

What are the ultimate goals of practicing Sri Chakra meditation?

The goals of Sri Chakra meditation are to experience both enjoyment (bhukti) and liberation (mukti) while achieving an identity with the divine forces, Siva and Sakthi.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “The sri chakra as a symbol of the human body�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Hand:
In the context of Tantric practices, the 'Hand' symbolizes action and the ability to perform ritualistic gestures known as 'mudras'. These hand movements are powerful conduits for channeling energy and achieving specific outcomes in meditation and worship, facilitating communication with deities and the spiritual realm.

2) Tantra (TantrÄ, Tamtra, Tantrism):
'Tantra' is a comprehensive spiritual system that encompasses various practices, philosophies, and rituals aimed at achieving enlightenment. It recognizes the sacredness of the physical world and employs symbols like the Sri Chakra to facilitate experiences that bridge the gap between material and spiritual realms.

3) Nadi (NÄdi, NadÄ«, NÄá¸Ä�, NÄdin, NÄá¸i, Nadin):
In Tantric anatomy, 'Nadi' refers to the channels of energy throughout the body. There are fourteen principal nadis that are associated with the flow of prana (life force), facilitating the movement of energy between various chakras and influencing physical, emotional, and spiritual states.

4) Tanmatra (TanmÄtra, Tad-matra):
'Tanmatra' signifies the subtle elements or sensory qualities that are the basis of all physical matter in the universe. They correspond to the five senses and their perceptions, forming the connection between the material world and spiritual experiences in the context of the Sri Chakra.

5) Bhavana (BhÄvanÄ, BhÄvana, Bha-vana):
'Bhavana' refers to the meditative practice of cultivating specific feelings, thoughts, or intentions. In Tantric rituals, it involves deep contemplation and visualization to connect with the divine forces represented in the Sri Chakra, facilitating spiritual growth and understanding of one's inner self.

6) Niyati (NÄ«yati, NÄ«yÄti, NiyatÄ«):
'Niyati' refers to the principles of discipline and control over one's desires and passions. In Tantric practices, it signifies the awareness of one's natural state and the inward journey towards spiritual alignment and stability, allowing practitioners to effectively channel their energies in meditation.

7) Krodha (KrodhÄ):
'Krodha' means anger, recognized as one of the underlying emotions that can distort the natural state of being. In Tantric meditation, understanding and transforming krodha is crucial, as it influences one's actions and spiritual growth, necessitating a path towards emotional balance and enlightenment.

8) Sakthi:
'Sakthi' represents the divine feminine energy or power that manifests in various forms within the universe. In Tantric traditions, it is revered as the primordial force driving creation and transformation. Understanding Sakthi empowers practitioners to connect deeply with spiritual and material aspects of life.

9) Desire:
'Desire' is the driving force behind human actions, often manifesting as wants or cravings. In the context of Tantra, desire is acknowledged as a natural aspect of existence that must be transcended or harmonized through meditation to achieve spiritual liberation and unity with the divine.

10) Mahat:
'Mahat' refers to the cosmic principle of intelligence and vastness in the Tantric philosophy. It represents the expansive consciousness that encompasses everything within the universe, guiding individuals towards understanding their place in the cosmos and realizing their connection to the ultimate source of being.

11) Punya (PuṇyÄ, Puṇya):
'Punya' is associated with merit or good deeds that accumulate positive karmic benefits. In Tantric practices, recognizing one’s own punya is important, as it influences spiritual advancement and the practitioner’s ability to connect with divine energies through rituals and meditative practices.

12) Rasa (RasÄ, Rasha):
'Rasa' signifies the essence of emotions and experiences, often translated as 'flavor' or 'mood' in art and literature. In Tantra, it is integral to understanding the varied sentiments that influence human behavior, offering a pathway to comprehend the interplay between emotions and spiritual practice.

13) Kama (KÄmÄ, KÄma, KamÄ):
'Kama' typically refers to desire or lust, embodying the pursuit of pleasure and sensory experiences. In Tantric philosophy, kama is acknowledged as one of the driving desires that must be understood and integrated into one’s spiritual journey, rather than entirely suppressed.

14) Dhananjaya (Dhanañjaya, Dhanaṃjaya, Dhanamjaya):
'Dhananjaya' is one of the minor breaths in the Tantric system, specifically relating to the energy channels that govern specific bodily functions. Recognition of such energies allows practitioners to align their meditative practices with the vibrational forces of the body, enhancing overall spiritual development.

15) Vaishnavi (VaiṣṇÄvÄ«, VaiṣṇavÄ«):
'Vaishnavi' refers to one of the energy forms linked to the deity Vishnu in Tantric traditions. She embodies preservation and protection, symbolizing divine support in the spiritual journey, focusing on harmony and balancing one’s inner energies in pursuit of enlightenment.

16) Bhayanaka (BhayÄnaka):
'Bhayanaka' signifies fear or terror, an emotion that can be detrimental to spiritual progress. Understanding bhayanaka within the context of Tantric practices is essential, as it prompts practitioners to confront and transform fear into courage, ultimately leading to personal growth and liberation.

17) Payasvini (Payasvinī):
'Payasvini' is one of the fourteen nadis and symbolizes a specific energy pathway within the body. Its recognition helps practitioners understand the flow of life forces, enhancing their ability to connect with the spiritual elements and amplifying their meditative experiences and inner harmony.

18) Alambusha (Alambuá¹£Ä�, Alambuá¹£a, Alambusa, AlambusÄ, AlambuÅ›Ä, AlambuÅ›a):
'Alambusha' is one of the nadis mentioned in Tantric philosophy, associated with energy pathways within the body. Awareness of such energy channels enhances the understanding of the intricate spiritual anatomy, allowing for better alignment and connection during meditation and Tantric rituals.

19) Knowledge:
'Knowledge' in the Tantric framework represents the understanding of spiritual truths and the self. It is gained through meditation and ritual practices, integrating wisdom about the universe, the human experience, and the divine connection, leading to transformative experiences and enlightenment.

20) Gandhari (GÄndhÄrÄ«, GandhÄrÄ«, GÄndhÄri, Gamdhari):
'Gandhari' signifies one of the fourteen nadis and represents an energy channel crucial for health and spiritual practice. Recognizing such nadis allows for the harnessing of prana, facilitating the balance of energies in the body, essential for successful meditation and spiritual growth.

21) Prakamya (PrakÄmya, PrÄkÄmya):
'Prakamya' refers to the power of manifestation, an important concept in Tantric practice. Practitioners aim to harness this ability to bring their intentions into reality, working through the energies in the Sri Chakra to fulfill desires and achieve spiritual goals.

22) Ahamkara (Ahaá¹…kÄra, AhaṃkÄra, Ahankara, Aham-kara):
'Ahamkara' is the principle of ego in Tantric philosophy. It represents the individual's sense of self, which must be transcended to attain deeper awareness of one's true nature and ultimate unity with the divine. Managing ahamkara is essential in the path of spiritual practice.

23) Svabhava (SvabhÄva, Sva-bhava):
'Svabhava' denotes the natural state or inherent quality of an individual or entity. In Tantric philosophy, understanding one's svabhava is pivotal for spiritual growth, helping practitioners recognize their strengths and weaknesses, guiding their journey toward enlightenment and harmony with the universe.

24) Matsarya (MÄtsarya):
'Matsarya' refers to jealousy or envy, recognized as an emotional obstacle in personal development. In Tantric meditation, addressing and transforming matsarya is essential to achieve emotional balance and spiritual clarity, fostering positive relationships and a deeper understanding of oneself and others.

25) Shankhini (Śaṅkhiṇ�, Śaṅkhinī, Śaṅkhini):
'Sankhini' is noted among the nadis, reflecting the energy pathways integral to the flow of prana. Awareness of such nadis facilitates the understanding of the body's spiritual anatomy, empowering practitioners to channel energies properly during meditative practices and enhancing spiritual experiences.

26) Activity:
'Activity' in Tantric philosophy refers to the dynamic expressions of life, encompassing all actions taken by individuals. It emphasizes the significance of mindful engagement in worldly pursuits as a pathway to spiritual awakening, linking everyday life with sacred practices and spiritual objectives.

27) Delusion (Deluded):
'Delusion' signifies the misconceptions or misunderstandings that cloud the mind. In Tantric thought, delusion is a barrier to enlightenment, necessitating practices that foster clarity, self-awareness, and understanding, allowing practitioners to move beyond illusions and embrace spiritual truth.

28) Sadhana (SÄdhanÄ, SÄdhana, SadhÄna):
'Sadhana' refers to the dedicated practice of spiritual disciplines that lead to self-realization and enlightenment. In Tantric traditions, it embodies rituals, meditation, and the application of teachings that align the practitioner with divine energies, ultimately guiding them towards liberation.

29) Pingala (Piá¹…galÄ, Piá¹…gala, Piá¹…gÄla, Pimgala):
'Pingala' is one of the primary nadis in Tantric philosophy, associated with solar energy and vital functions in the body. It complements the ida nadi, forming a dual system essential for balance and harmonious functioning in both physical and spiritual realms during meditation.

30) Avyakta (Ä€vyakta):
'Avyakta' represents the unmanifest or the formless aspect of reality in Tantric philosophy. It signifies the ultimate source from which all creation emerges, essential for understanding the nature of existence and developing a relationship with the divine through meditation and spiritual practices.

31) Science (Scientific):
'Science' refers to the systematic study of the physical and metaphysical aspects of existence. In Tantric contexts, it can signify the empirical understanding of spiritual practices that seek to explain the governing principles of the universe and human consciousness through rituals and meditative techniques.

32) Yantra (Yamtra):
'Yantra' is a mystical diagram used in Tantric rituals to represent various aspects of the cosmos and spiritual energies. The Sri Chakra is a prominent yantra that serves as a focal point in meditation, facilitating the connection between the practitioner and divine forces.

33) Siddhi:
'Siddhi' refers to the spiritual powers or accomplishments attained through dedicated practice in Tantra. These powers are seen as byproducts of deep meditation and alignment with higher energies, including abilities such as clairvoyance or manifestation that emerge as a result of spiritual discipline.

34) Sattva (SÄttva, Shattva):
'Sattva' embodies purity, knowledge, and harmony within the three gunas (forces) of creation. In Tantric philosophy, nurturing sattva is essential for spiritual cultivation, leading one towards clarity, peace, and enlightenment while countering the influences of rajas (activity) and tamas (inertia).

35) Varahi (VarÄhÄ«, VÄrÄhÄ«, VÄrÄhi):
'Varahi' is associated with strength and protection, often viewed as a goddess in the Tantric pantheon. As a manifestation of Shakti, she plays a role in safeguarding practitioners on their spiritual journeys while embodying qualities necessary for overcoming obstacles and achieving inner power.

36) Brahmi (BrÄhmÄ«):
'Brahmi' signifies a divine aspect in Tantric philosophy, often representing knowledge and wisdom. Recognized within spiritual practices as a quality to be cultivated, Brahmi embodies the quest for understanding and enlightenment through the exploration of inner and outer realms of existence.

37) Samana (Åšamana, SamÄna, Samaṇa, SamanÄ, ÅšÄmana, SÄmana, Shamana, SamÄnÄ):
'Samana' refers to one of the five major breaths in Tantric practices, associated with digestion and assimilation of energy. Understanding and harnessing samana aids practitioners in maintaining physical balance and enhancing their meditative states, facilitating spiritual growth through effective energy management.

38) Lalita (LalitÄ, LÄlita):
'Lalita' represents the supreme divine feminine consciousness in Tantric philosophies. She symbolizes ultimate bliss and unity, serving as a focal point for devotion and meditation, guiding practitioners toward understanding their higher self and achieving a state of pure awareness and joy.

39) Shastra (ÅšÄstra):
'Sastra' refers to the sacred scriptures and texts that impart spiritual knowledge and guidance within Tantric practices. These texts provide insight into rituals, philosophies, and meditative techniques, serving as foundational resources for practitioners seeking spiritual enlightenment and deeper understanding.

40) Varuni (VÄruṇÄ�, VÄruṇi, VÄrunÄ«, VaruṇÄ�, VÄrūṇÄ�, Varuṇi, VÄrūṇi):
'Varuni' denotes an aspect of water in Tantric practices and embodies fluidity and adaptability. Recognizing the significance of varuni can enhance one's understanding of the interplay between elements and the flow of energy within the body, fundamental for spiritual balance and healing.

41) Manas (Mano, Manash, MÄṇo):
'Manas' signifies the mind or consciousness in Tantric philosophy. It plays a crucial role in spiritual practices, as understanding and regulating manas is pivotal for meditation, allowing practitioners to transcend mental distractions and connect with higher spiritual states and ultimate truth.

42) Lobha (LobhÄ):
'Lobha' signifies greed or excessive desire, recognized as one of the negative emotions in Tantric philosophy. Addressing lobha is crucial for spiritual progress, as it can cloud judgment and prevent true understanding, urging practitioners to cultivate contentment and balance in their aspirations.

43) Rajas:
'Rajas' represents activity and passion within the three gunas (forces) of creation. In Tantric philosophy, understanding rajas is essential, as it highlights the dynamics of energetic movement and its influence on actions and experiences, guiding practitioners toward balanced expression and spiritual clarity.

44) Tamas (TamÄá¹�, TÄmÄá¹�):
'Tamas' embodies darkness and inertia, representing one of the three gunas in creation. Recognizing tamas allows practitioners to address stagnation and negativity within themselves, facilitating the transformation towards light, awareness, and active engagement in their spiritual practices and everyday life.

45) Iccha (IcchÄ):
'Iccha' means will or desire, signifying the inherent drive to manifest intentions in Tantric philosophy. Understanding and directing iccha through focused meditation allows practitioners to align their desires with divine energies and attain their spiritual goals effectively.

46) Udana (UdÄna):
'Udana' is one of the five major vital breaths in Tantric teachings, often associated with upward movement and expression. Recognizing udana facilitates understanding of how energies interact within the body, aiding practitioners in harnessing this breath to elevate consciousness during meditative practices.

47) Santa (Shanta, ÅšÄnta, SantÄ, ÅšÄntÄ, Samta, Shamta):
'Santa' signifies quiescence or peace, an important emotional state in Tantric practice. Cultivating santa is essential for achieving inner stillness and clarity, allowing the practitioner to connect with higher states of consciousness and spiritual energies during meditation.

48) Vyana (VyÄna):
'Vyana' refers to one of the vital forces that circulate throughout the body in Tantric philosophy, governing bodily functions and energy distribution. Understanding vyana is crucial for practitioners, allowing them to manage their energies effectively and enhance their meditative experiences.

49) Kurma (Kūrma):
'Kurma' refers to one of the minor vital forces within Tantric practices, associated with maintaining stability and balance. Recognizing kurma's role supports the practitioner in grounding their energy, facilitating a deeper connection to the self and the universe during meditation and rituals.

50) Nyasa (NyÄsa):
'Nyasa' represents a ritual practice where energy is symbolically placed in various parts of the body, aligning the practitioner with divine energies. This technique is essential in Tantric rituals, enhancing the meditation experience by designating sacredness to different physical aspects of existence.

51) Virya (VÄ«rya, VÄ«ryÄ):
'Virya' embodies heroism or vitality in Tantric philosophy, reflecting energetic expressions of life. Cultivating virya is essential for practitioners to embody strength and determination, essential qualities for overcoming obstacles on the spiritual path and achieving enlightenment.

52) Apana (ApÄna, Ä€paṇa, Ä€pÄna, ApÄṇa, Ä€pÄṇa, Ä€pana):
'Apana' refers to one of the five major breaths in Tantric practices, often associated with downward movement and the elimination of waste. Understanding apana allows practitioners to harmonize their energies, facilitating purification and spiritual clarity necessary for meditation and personal development.

53) Mudra (MudrÄ):
'Mudra' signifies symbolic hand gestures utilized in Tantric rituals that affect the flow of energy within the body. These gestures enhance the practice of meditation, enabling deeper connection with emotional states, divine energies, and facilitating the manifestation of spiritual intentions.

54) Water:
'Water' symbolizes fluidity and adaptability, integral elements in both physical and spiritual contexts within Tantric philosophy. Recognizing water's significance aids practitioners in understanding the dynamic interplay of elements within themselves, facilitating emotional balance and spiritual harmony.

55) Pride:
'Pride' embodies an inflated sense of self-importance, often seen as an obstacle in spiritual development. Addressing pride is essential in Tantric practices to cultivate humility, promoting deeper connection with the divine and facilitating personal transformation and growth.

56) Anger (Angry):
'Anger' is a fundamental emotion recognized as a disruptive force in the path of spiritual progress. Understanding and transforming anger through Tantric practices allows practitioners to achieve emotional balance, enabling them to respond mindfully and maintain their connection with the divine.

57) Veda (VedÄ):
'Vedic' pertains to the ancient scriptures and teachings that form the basis of Hindu philosophy and spiritual practices. In the context of Tantra, Vedic knowledges inform rituals and meditation, serving as foundational texts for understanding the universe and the self.

58) Prana (PrÄṇÄ�, PrÄṇa, Praṇa, PrÄá¹�, Pran):
'Prana' signifies the life force energy that flows through all beings, essential in Tantric practices. Awareness and control of prana enhances meditation, promoting health and vitality, while facilitating deeper connections with both the self and the universe.

59) Raja (RÄja, RÄjÄ):
'Raja' refers to the quality of sovereignty or leadership, symbolizing the essence of control and mastery within Tantric philosophy. Recognizing raja encourages practitioners to embody confidence and purpose in their spiritual journey, guiding introspection and self-empowerment.

60) Tama (TÄma, TÄmÄ):
'Tama' signifies darkness and ignorance, an elemental aspect of existence that is essential to acknowledge in Tantric practices. Understanding tama promotes the transformation of inner darkness into light, fostering a clearer sense of self and connecting with higher consciousness.

61) Moha (MohÄ):
'Moha' represents attachment or delusion, understood as confusion about the nature of reality in Tantric philosophy. Overcoming moha is vital for practitioners to achieve clarity and understanding, paving the way for spiritual growth and deeper connection with the divine.

62) Naga (NÄga, Nag, NÄgÄ):
'Naga' refers to one of the minor vital breaths in Tantric philosophy, often linked with specific energy functions within the body. Recognizing the role of nagas facilitates better energy management in meditation and enhances overall spiritual development through bodily awareness.

63) Shiva (ÅšivÄ, SivÄ, Åšiva, Siva, SÄ«va):
'Siva' represents the supreme consciousness and ultimate reality within Hindu philosophy, revered as the primary deity associated with creation and transformation. In Tantric practices, connecting with Siva fosters deep spiritual insights, guiding practitioners towards enlightenment and self-realization.

64) Kona (Koṇa):
'Kona' refers to the corners or angles in the geometry of yantras, playing a significant role in the structural representation of cosmic energies. Understanding kona is essential for practitioners as it symbolizes different aspects of existence and helps in deciphering deeper meanings within rituals.

65) Mada (MÄá¸a, MÄda, Maá¸Ä�):
'Mada' signifies pride or intoxication, often seen as a spiritual barrier in Tantric philosophy. Addressing mada is crucial for cultivating humility and clarity, enabling practitioners to forge deeper connections with the divine and realize their true nature.

66) Mana (MÄṇa, MÄna, Maṉa, MaṉÄ�, MÄṉa, MÄṉÄ�):
'Mana' refers to the mind or mental faculties in Tantric teachings, viewed as an essential component in spiritual growth. Regulating mana through meditation promotes clarity, focus, and deeper insights into one’s own consciousness and the nature of reality.

67) Mira (MÄ«ra, MirÄ, Mir):
'Mira' symbolizes devotion and love for the divine in Tantric practices. She represents the longing for union with the spiritual, emphasizing the importance of heartfelt dedication and the transformative power of love in achieving spiritual fulfillment.

68) Lust:
'Lust' signifies an intense longing or desire for sensual pleasure, often addressed within Tantric frameworks as an influential emotion. Recognizing and integrating lust into spiritual practices leads to deeper understanding and transformation, allowing practitioners to move towards higher states of consciousness.

69) Envy:
'Envy' refers to the feeling of discontent arising from the desires for what others possess. In Tantric philosophy, addressing envy is essential for personal growth, as it can cloud perception and hinder spiritual progress. Cultivating compassion is often deemed vital to overcome this emotion.

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: �The sri chakra as a symbol of the human body�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Siddhi, Human body, Five element.

Concepts being referred in other categories, contexts and sources.

Shri Chakra, Tantrashastra, Nine sentiments, Absolute consciousness, Ten senses, Tantric discipline.

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