Tantra Illuminated with Dr. Christopher Wallis
Mandala and Āgamic Identity by Alexis Sanderson (Part One)
Jan 10, 2025
Dive into the esoteric depths of the Trika tradition from medieval Kashmir. Explore the transformative power of tantric initiation rituals and the role of mandalas in self-realization. Discover how these practices dissolve individual identity, fostering a universal connection with Shiva consciousness. Delve into 'samāvesha' and learn about its evolution in spiritual awakening, along with the nuanced understanding of possession versus immersion in non-dual Shaiva Tantra. Each topic offers profound insights into the nature of existence and consciousness.
37:08
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Quick takeaways
- The Tantric initiation involves a transformative immersion where participants engage directly with deities, reshaping their identity into divine consciousness.
- The mandala symbolizes the Tantric cosmology, facilitating the practitioner's elevation from mundane existence to a profound connection with the absolute through ritual worship.
Deep dives
The Concept of Samāvesha in Tantric Initiation
The term samāvesha signifies a crucial aspect of the Tantric initiation process, where the neophyte experiences a form of immersion rather than a loss of control traditionally associated with possession. During the initiation ritual, the guru blindfolds the initiand, leading them to interact directly with the deities of the mandala, leading to a trance-like state. This immersion is not merely a passive experience; it is an active engagement with one's true nature, aimed at transforming the initiate's identity into that of the associated deities. Abhinavagupta emphasizes that this state reveals the participant's original consciousness, highlighting a shift from the earlier idea of possession to a profound engagement with divine identity.
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