Article | August 28, 2024
Primarily there are only 14 Shiva Sutra as Nigama Shastra in Tantra. But When we expand it in our Ṣaṭakōṇa i.e. in Hexagonal Geometry it becomes 84 Shiva Sutras. Abhinavagupta of Kashmir Shaivism noted only 77 aphorisms or sutras out of 84. According to Nigama Shastra, the 14 Sutras are hidden in 14 Chandas alphabet or Akshara. Later it came to Bengali script.
১. অ ই উ ণ্,
২. ঋ ঌ ক্,
৩. এ ও ঙ্,
৪. ঐ ঔ চ্,
৫. হ য ব (অন্তঃস্থ ব) র ট্,
৬. ল ণ্,
৭. ঞ ম ঙ ণ ন ম্,
৮. ঝ ভ ঞ্
৯. ঘ ঢ ধ ষ্
১০. জ ব (বর্গীয় ব) গ ড দ শ্
১১. খ ফ ছ ঠ থ চ ট ত ব্ (অন্তঃস্থ ব)
১২. ক প য্
১৩. শ ষ স র্
১৪. হ ল্
The very first Sutra is "Chinta Sutra Chinna Hole Mukti Sutra" (চিন্তা সূত্র ছিন্ন হলেই মুক্তি সূত্র) "When the thread of thought is severed, then you get the thread of salvation" encapsulates a profound spiritual insight into the nature of liberation and self-realization. This concept suggests that true freedom is attained not through external actions but by transcending the confines of habitual thought patterns. In this detailed exploration, we will delve into the intricate layers of this idea, examining its philosophical foundations, practical applications, and illustrative examples from various traditions. The journey to sever the thread of thought and attain salvation is both an art and a science, demanding deep introspection and disciplined practice.
The Nature of Thought
To understand the liberation that comes from severing the thread of thought, we first need to comprehend the nature of thought itself. Thoughts are the ephemeral phenomena that continuously arise in the mind, shaping our perceptions, emotions, and actions. They are not merely fleeting mental events but are deeply intertwined with our sense of self and reality.
1. The Role of Thoughts in Shaping Reality
Thoughts are powerful architects of our reality. Cognitive psychology emphasizes the impact of thoughts on how we perceive and interact with the world. For instance, a person plagued by self-doubt may perceive challenges as insurmountable obstacles, whereas someone with a positive mindset may see them as opportunities for growth. This subjective reality shaped by thought influences every aspect of our lives, from personal relationships to professional endeavours.
Consider the example of a student preparing for an important exam. If the student is consumed by anxiety and negative thoughts about failure, this mental state can lead to diminished performance. Conversely, a student who manages to overcome these thoughts and maintains a calm and focused mindset may perform better. This illustrates how thoughts can shape outcomes and experiences.
2. The Cycle of Thought and Suffering
In many spiritual traditions, thoughts are viewed as a primary source of suffering. The Buddhist concept of "samsara" describes the endless cycle of birth, death, and rebirth driven by desires and attachments. Thoughts often fuel these desires and attachments, creating a cycle of suffering and dissatisfaction. For example, the constant craving for material possessions or approval from others keeps individuals trapped in a cycle of unfulfilled desires.
To break free from this cycle, one must transcend the habitual thought patterns that perpetuate suffering. This involves recognizing the impermanent nature of thoughts and learning to observe them without becoming entangled.
The Concept of Severing the Thread of Thought
Severing the thread of thought is a transformative process that involves transcending ordinary mental processes to achieve a state of pure awareness or consciousness. This concept is explored in various philosophical and spiritual traditions, each offering unique perspectives on how to achieve this state.
1. Philosophical Perspectives
Several philosophical and spiritual traditions emphasize the importance of transcending thought:
Advaita Philosophy: Advaita Philosophy, a major school of Ancient Indian philosophy, teaches that the ultimate reality, Brahman, is beyond the mind and its conceptualizations. Liberation (moksha) is attained when one transcends the illusory nature of thoughts and realizes their true nature as non-dual consciousness. The practice of self-inquiry, famously taught by Ramana Maharshi, involves asking the question "Who am I?" to peel away layers of thought and reveal the true self.
Zen Buddhism: Zen Buddhism emphasizes direct experience and the practice of meditation to transcend conceptual thinking. Zen koans, paradoxical statements or questions, are used to disrupt ordinary thought processes and encourage direct, experiential realization. For instance, the koan "What is the sound of one hand clapping?" challenges the mind's usual way of thinking and points toward a deeper awareness.
Taoism: Taoism, with its focus on living in harmony with the Tao, emphasizes the principle of "wu wei," or "non-action." This does not mean complete passivity but rather acting by the natural flow of life without the interference of conceptual thinking. The Tao Te Ching, a foundational Taoist text, describes the Tao as beyond the grasp of thought and language.
2. Practical Applications
Severing the thread of thought involves practical techniques and practices that help quiet the mind and cultivate a state of pure awareness:
Meditation: Meditation is a primary tool for severing the thread of thought. Practices such as mindfulness meditation and concentration meditation focus on quieting the mind and bringing awareness to the present moment. For example, in mindfulness meditation, practitioners focus on their breath or bodily sensations, observing thoughts as they arise and letting them pass without attachment.
Contemplation: Contemplative practices involve deep reflection on spiritual truths or philosophical questions. Contemplating the nature of self and reality can lead to insights that transcend ordinary thought patterns. For instance, contemplating the impermanence of all things can help diminish attachment and the resulting mental chatter.
Mindfulness: Mindfulness involves paying attention to present-moment experiences without judgment. By observing thoughts and emotions as they arise, individuals can develop a greater sense of detachment and clarity. This practice helps in recognizing the transient nature of thoughts and reducing their impact on one's emotional state.
The Shree Siddhashram Nigama Programme, rooted in ancient Tantric traditions, incorporates various sadhanas (spiritual practices) aimed at attaining profound states of spiritual realization. Among these, the Shiva Sutra Ṣaṭakōṇa Sadhana stands out as a practice that offers the ultimate ecstasy and exuberance to the practitioner. This article delves into the essence of this sadhana, exploring how it facilitates a transformative experience that resonates with the highest spiritual ideals.
The Essence of Shiva Sutra Ṣaṭakōṇa Sadhana in Shree Siddhashram
1. Understanding Shiva Sutra Ṣaṭakōṇa
The Shiva Sutra Ṣaṭakōṇa is a revered text in the tradition of Nath Tradition in Bengal, attributed to the great Matsyendranath. This text is central to the practice of Ṣaṭakōṇa Sadhana, which is designed to align the practitioner's consciousness with the supreme consciousness of Shiva. The Ṣaṭakōṇa, or "six-pointed" practice, is a method of meditative and ritualistic techniques that aim to invoke and experience the divine presence.
Shiva Sutra refers to a series of aphorisms or teachings that guide attaining the ultimate realization of Shiva, the supreme consciousness. The Ṣaṭakōṇa aspect focuses on a specific geometric and symbolic representation that encapsulates profound spiritual truths.
2. The Geometric Symbolism
The Ṣaṭakōṇa, also known as the "six-pointed star" or "Sri Yantra," is a powerful geometric symbol in Tantra. It consists of two interlocking triangles forming a hexagram, representing the union of the masculine and feminine principles, as well as the intersection of the material and spiritual realms. This symbol is revered for its ability to channel divine energy and facilitate higher states of consciousness.
The Shree Siddhashram Nigama Programme
The Shree Siddhashram Nigama Programme is a comprehensive spiritual regimen that integrates various practices aimed at achieving self-realization and divine communion. It incorporates elements of meditation, mantra chanting, ritual worship, and philosophical study. The program is designed to guide practitioners through a structured path of spiritual awakening, using the powerful techniques of Ṣaṭakōṇa Sadhana to bring about profound transformation.
1. Integration of Ṣaṭakōṇa Sadhana
In the context of the Shree Siddhashram Nigama Programme, the Ṣaṭakōṇa Sadhana is meticulously integrated into the spiritual journey of practitioners. The practice involves:
Meditative Visualization: Practitioners engage in deep meditation while visualizing the Ṣaṭakōṇa symbol. This visualization helps in aligning the mind with the divine essence of Shiva, facilitating a direct experience of spiritual ecstasy.
Mantra Chanting: The practice involves the chanting of specific mantras associated with the Ṣaṭakōṇa. These mantras are potent vibrational sounds that resonate with the cosmic energy of Shiva, amplifying the practitioner's spiritual experience.
Ritualistic Worship: The Sadhana includes elaborate rituals and offerings to honour the divine presence. These rituals are performed with utmost devotion and precision, creating an environment conducive to spiritual realization.
Philosophical Contemplation: Practitioners engage in contemplative study of the Shiva Sutras and related texts. This intellectual understanding supports and deepens the meditative experience, providing a comprehensive approach to spiritual growth.
The Experience of Ecstasy and Exuberance in Shree Siddhashram
The Shiva Sutra Ṣaṭakōṇa Sadhana is renowned for its ability to induce profound states of ecstasy and exuberance. This experience is a culmination of the harmonious integration of meditation, mantra, ritual, and philosophical study.
1. The Ecstasy of Divine Union
As practitioners delve into the Ṣaṭakōṇa Sadhana, they experience a state of divine union with the cosmic consciousness of Shiva. This union transcends ordinary mental and emotional states, bringing about a profound sense of bliss and fulfilment. The meditative visualization of the Ṣaṭakōṇa symbol and the chanting of mantras create a powerful energetic resonance that opens the practitioner to higher dimensions of awareness.
For example, a practitioner might describe the experience of feeling an overwhelming sense of love and connection with the universe during meditation. This state of ecstatic unity is characterized by a deep sense of peace, joy, and interconnectedness with all existence.
2. The Exuberance of Spiritual Awakening
The exuberance experienced through the Ṣaṭakōṇa Sadhana is not merely a fleeting emotion but a profound awakening to one's true nature. This exuberance is marked by a heightened sense of vitality, creativity, and clarity. Practitioners often report a renewed sense of purpose and an enhanced capacity for joy and fulfilment in their daily lives.
For instance, a practitioner might experience a surge of creative inspiration and a sense of boundless energy following a session of Ṣaṭakōṇa Sadhana. This exuberance reflects the inner alignment with divine energy and the transformative impact of the practice on the practitioner's overall well-being.
The Transformative Impact on Practitioners
The Shree Siddhashram Nigama Programme, through the practice of Ṣaṭakōṇa Sadhana, brings about significant transformation in practitioners' lives. This transformation is evident in various aspects:
1. Enhanced Spiritual Awareness
Practitioners report a heightened sense of spiritual awareness and insight. The direct experience of divine consciousness during the Ṣaṭakōṇa Sadhana leads to a deeper understanding of spiritual truths and a more profound connection with the divine.
2. Greater Emotional Balance
The ecstasy and exuberance experienced through the practice contribute to greater emotional balance and stability. Practitioners find themselves more resilient to life's challenges and more capable of maintaining a sense of inner peace.
3. Increased Creativity and Vitality
The exuberance and heightened awareness resulting from the practice often translate into increased creativity and vitality. Practitioners find themselves more inspired and energized, leading to enhanced productivity and creativity in various aspects of their lives.
The Shiva Sutra Ṣaṭakōṇa Sadhana, as part of the Shree Siddhashram Nigama Programme, offers a profound and transformative experience of ecstasy and exuberance. By integrating meditation, mantra chanting, ritual worship, and philosophical study, this practice aligns practitioners with the divine essence of Shiva, facilitating a state of ultimate spiritual realization. The transformative impact of the Ṣaṭakōṇa Sadhana is evident in the enhanced spiritual awareness, emotional balance, and creative vitality experienced by practitioners. Through this sacred practice, individuals embark on a journey of profound inner transformation, attaining a state of divine union and ultimate bliss.
This comprehensive exploration of the Ṣaṭakōṇa Sadhana highlights its significance in the broader context of spiritual practice, offering valuable insights into its ability to induce deep states of ecstasy and exuberance. By embracing this practice, practitioners can experience the ultimate realization of their divine essence and achieve a state of profound spiritual fulfilment.
Illustrative Examples
To illustrate the concept of severing the thread of thought and attaining salvation, let’s explore some vivid examples from various traditions:
1. The Zen Master and the Muddy Road
A classic Zen story features a Zen master and his disciple travelling along a muddy road. The disciple becomes frustrated with the messiness and complains about the inconvenience. The Zen master, however, remains serene and does not react to the disciple's complaints. Upon reaching their destination, the master explains that true enlightenment comes not from reacting to external conditions but from transcending the mind's habitual responses. By severing the thread of judgment and complaint, one can achieve a state of inner peace and liberation.
This story vividly illustrates how our reactions to external circumstances are often driven by our thought patterns. By observing and transcending these reactions, we can attain a state of serenity and freedom.
2. The Buddha and the Unanswered Questions
The Buddha, after his enlightenment, was approached by various scholars and seekers who posed numerous questions about the nature of the universe and its existence. The Buddha often refrained from providing direct answers, emphasizing that such questions were rooted in conceptual thinking and did not lead to liberation. Instead, he encouraged his followers to focus on the practice of mindfulness and direct experience, which transcends the limitations of thought.
This approach highlights the importance of direct experience over conceptual knowledge. By focusing on practical practice rather than speculative thinking, one can attain a deeper understanding of reality.
3. The Mystic Ramana Maharshi
Ramana Maharshi, a renowned mystic, frequently spoke of his experiences of self-realization as moments of pure awareness beyond the reach of thought. His teachings emphasized that severing the identification with the ego and its thoughts leads to the realization of the true self, characterized by boundless peace and liberation. Maharshi's method of self-inquiry, asking "Who am I?" is a powerful tool for transcending thought and experiencing the essence of one's being.
Maharshi’s approach offers a tangible method for severing the thread of thought. By continuously questioning the nature of the self and observing the mind’s responses, practitioners can move beyond ego-based thinking and experience a state of profound clarity.
The Journey Towards Salvation
The journey of severing the thread of thought and attaining salvation is both profound and transformative. It requires dedication, practice, and a willingness to explore the depths of one's consciousness.
1. The Role of Discipline and Practice
Achieving this state of awareness necessitates disciplined practice. Meditation, mindfulness, and contemplation are essential tools in this journey. Practitioners must develop a consistent routine that supports their spiritual growth and provides opportunities for deep introspection. For example, setting aside time each day for meditation can help cultivate a deeper sense of awareness and detachment from habitual thought patterns.
2. The Importance of Guidance
In many spiritual traditions, guidance from a teacher or guru is considered crucial for navigating the journey of severing the thread of thought. A skilled teacher can provide insights, feedback, and support, helping practitioners stay focused and avoid common pitfalls. The guidance of a mentor can also help interpret experiences and challenges encountered along the path.
Conclusion
The concept of severing the thread of thought to attain salvation is a profound and transformative idea that resonates across various spiritual and philosophical traditions. By transcending habitual thinking and cultivating a state of pure awareness, individuals can experience a state of liberation that transcends the limitations of ordinary thought. This journey requires dedication, discipline, and guidance, but the rewards are profound and transformative. Through this process, one can attain a state of peace, clarity, and liberation that reflects the true essence of their being.
The exploration of severing the thread of thought highlights the deep connection between mental processes and spiritual liberation. By understanding and applying these concepts, individuals can embark on a journey toward profound personal transformation and ultimate freedom.
