Shakti and Shâkta : essays and addresses on the Shâkta Tantrashâstra

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TANTRAS AND THEIR SIGNIFICANCE

Pancharatra Agama says, the aspects of God are infinite, and no philosopher can seize and duly express more than one aspect. This is perfectly true. All systems of interpretation have some merits as they have defects, that of Shangkara included. The latter by his Mayavada is able to preserve more completely than any other interpretation the changelessness and stainlessness of Brahman. Tt does this however at the cost of certain defects, which do not exist in other schools, which have also their own peculiar merits and shortcomings. The basis and seat of authority is Shruti or experience and the Agama interprets Shruti in its own way. Thus the Shaiva-Shakta doctrines are specific interpretations of Vedanta which differ in several respects from that of Shangkara, though as they agree (I speak of the Northern Shaiva School) with him on the fundamental question of the unity of Jivatma and Paramatma, they are therefore Advaita. Agama then is one interpretation of Vedanta; an interpretation doubtless influenced by the practical ends which this Shastra has in view.

The next question is how Vedantic experience of which the Agama speaks may be gained? This is also prescribed in the Shastra in the form of peculiar Sadhanas or disciplines. In the first place there must be a healthy physical and moral life. To know a thing in its ultimate sense is to be that thing. To know Brahman, is according to Advaita, to be Brahman. One cannot realise Brahman the Pure except by being oneself pure (Shuddhachitta). But to attain and keep this state, as well as for progress therein, certain specific means, practice, rituals or disciplines are necessary. The result cannot be got by mere philosophical talk about Brahman. Religion is a practical activity. Just as the body requires exercise, training and gymnastic, so does the mind. This may be of a merely intellectual or spiritual kind. The means employed are called Sadhana which comes from the root ‘ Sddh,” to exert. Sadhana is

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