Shakti and Shâkta : essays and addresses on the Shâkta Tantrashâstra

SHAKTI AND SHAKTA

physical law, or be dangerous and inexpedient as leading to abuse. I will show later that the principle involved is one which is claimed to be in conformity with Vaidik truth, and is in fact recognised in varying forms by all classes of Hindus. Some do so dualistically. The Sadhana of the Shakta Tantra is, whether right or wrong, an application of the principles of Advaitavada and in its full form should not, it is said, be entered upon until after VedAntic principles have been mastered. For this reason Kauladharma has been called the fifth Ashrama. Secondly I wish to point out that this ritual with wine and meat is not as some suppose a new thing ; something introduced by the Shakta TAantriks. On the contrary it is very old and has sanction in Vaidik practice. So much is thisso, that a TAntrik Sadhu discussing the matter with a Bengali friend of mine said of himself, as a follower of this ritual, that he was a Hindu and that those who were opposed to it were Jainas. What he meant, and what seems to be the fact, is that the present day general prohibition against the use of wine, and the generally prevalent avoidance, or limitation of an animal diet, are due to the influence of Jainism and Buddhism which arose’after, and in opposition to, Vaidik usage. Their influence is most marked of course in Vaishnavism but has not been without effect elsewhere. When we examine ancient Vaidik usage we find that meat, fish and Mudra (the latter in the form of Purodésha) were consumed, and intoxicating liquor (in the form of Soma) was drunk, in the Vaidik Yajnas. We also discover some Vaidik rites in which there was Maithuna. This I have dealt with in my article on “ Shakti and Shakta.”

The abovementioned facts show in my opinion that there is ground for the doctrine of the Tantrikas that it is Avidya to sever Veda and Tantra. My conclusion is not however a counsel to follow this nor any other particular form of ritual. Iam only concerned to state the facts. I may however here add two observations.