TANTRA - A Primer.
This is not an exhaustive exposition. Don't expect perfection in these words as words are limited and Tantra is limitless.
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This is not an exhaustive exposition. Don't expect perfection in these words as words are limited and Tantra is limitless.
BEGIN
Tantra can be described as a technology, focusing not on creating physical existence, but rather on forming identities that surpass one's intelligence. It is a way of learning to utilize the body, mind, and energy to access a higher possibility.
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Tantra, derived from the two syllables "Tan" meaning body and "Tra" meaning protection, refers to the control and protection of the physical, astral and finer bodies.
It also means "Tanu Vistare", or the knowledge of expanding multiple aspects of creation simultaneously.
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It also means "Tanu Vistare", or the knowledge of expanding multiple aspects of creation simultaneously.
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Tantra is a science propounded by Lord Shiva for the welfare of mankind, focused on creating an intelligence beyond one's present capabilities and using the body, mind & energies as instruments of life. It allows one to expand their to a level where time becomes irrelevant.
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Tantra Shastra is not a written document, its origin lies in secret dialogues between Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, and is passed down from one guru to the disciple by word of mouth.
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The success of Tantra relies on factors such as self-confidence, faith, devotion, and strong willpower, and it requires initiation from a competent guru. The practice of Tantra increases one's ability beyond the normal and should not be confused with magic.
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The first step in Tantra is to understand the limitations and abilities of the body and mind. The techniques prescribed then allow for the expansion of consciousness and liberation of energy, transcending individual limitations and accessing a higher reality.
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According to Kamik Aagama, Tantra offers a comprehensive understanding of mantras and rituals, leading to a protection from all fears when practiced properly. Tantra is closely related to Mantra, Yantra, and Yoga and the awakening of kundalini shakti.
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Mantra, Yantra, and Tantra are interconnected and the technique of using these two things together is called Tantra. A Mantra is a sound and a Yantra is its form. Success in Tantra stems from a culmination of Mantra Siddhi and Tantra Siddhi.
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There is no room for questioning the "how" and "why" in Tantra. It is not a religion, but rather a Sadhana, a technique, or a path, and can be found in all religions. Without initiation by a Guru, the practice is ineffective.
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A false notion spread by some scholars is that in Tantra Sadhana, the use of five "Ms" (meat, madura, maithun, money, and women) is essential, which has created unnecessary disgust and misunderstanding among the general public.
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This is where one needs to understand the difference between Vam Marga and Dakshina Marg. Tantra Sadhana is broadly classified into two main branches - Vaam Margi (leftist) and Dakshin Margi (Rightist) and further divided into satwik, rajas, and tamas.
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Some Tantriks interpreted the meaning of Panchamkars in a manner that is often considered as opposed to the accepted Vedic norms, leading them to be called Vaam Margi / Vamachari. That may involve the use of alcohol, sex, even corpse worship & other extreme forms of sadhana.
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Vaam Margi Sadhana is difficult and complex and requires courage, control over the senses, and dedication. However, the pursuit of power and wealth by some Vaam Margi practitioners has distanced them from society and corrupted them from their path.
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The Meru Tantra states that only those who are indifferent to others' wealth, have completely controlled their sexual desires, and have have complete control over their senses can succeed in Vaam Margi Sadhana.
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Dakshin Margi is a satwik path, where followers often use only vegetarian items for worship & follow a calm and peaceful approach. Their aim is to achieve divya (godly) bhava. Sadhana is divided into five parts, including Japa, Pooja, recitation of deity names, and worship.
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The Dakshin Margi path emphasizes the importance of calming the body and mind before starting the practice, and the need to appease the deity through recitation of their names and worship.
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Tantra Sadhana is divided into three parts: Aagam, Yamal, and Varahi Tantra.
In Aagam, topics discussed include creation, destruction, Shatkarma (six types of karma), Sadhana, recitation, Satya Karma Sadhana, and the four types of Dharma.
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In Aagam, topics discussed include creation, destruction, Shatkarma (six types of karma), Sadhana, recitation, Satya Karma Sadhana, and the four types of Dharma.
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Yamal covers elements of creation, astrology, detached Karma, caste division, sect, and Yuga (time).
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Varahi or the main Tantra discusses creation, Mantra, pilgrimage places, the stages of life in Ashrams, fasting, Vedas/Puranas, signs of a good person, donations, spirituality, and good governance.
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There are six types of Shakti worshiped and sanctified, namely: 1) Para Shakti (denoting Lord Shiva and his Shakti), 2) Gyan Shakti (knowledge), 3) Iccha Shakti (Will power), 4) Kriya Shakti (concentration), 5) Kundalini Shakti , and 6) Matrika Shakti.
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Matrika Shakti is the power of the sacred syllables or sounds in Tantric teachings. According to Tantra, when specific mantras are recited with deep reverence and faith, they activate the spiritual energy within an individual.
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Chanting of Mantras with correct application of Yantras results in the development of Ichha Shakti (power of intention), Kriya Shakti (power of action), and Kundalini Shakti (coiled spiritual energy at the base of the spine).
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Writing anything beyond this is beyond the knowledge and Adhikara of the writer.
Jai Mahadeva, Jai Bhawani!
END.
Jai Mahadeva, Jai Bhawani!
END.
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