The Trika School of Tantra, rooted in the rich spiritual and philosophical tradition of Kashmir

Shaivism, represents a profound and esoteric path to self-realization and spiritual awakening.
This ancient school of thought, with its origins dating back to the early centuries of the
Common Era, offers a comprehensive and transformative approach to understanding the nature
of existence, consciousness, and the divine. In this exploration, we will delve into the
foundational principles, practices, and unique characteristics that define the Trika School of
Tantra.
HISTORICAL CONTEXT:

The Trika School of Tantra emerged in the historical and cultural landscape of Kashmir, a
region nestled in the northern part of the Indian subcontinent. Flourishing between the 8th and
12th centuries, this school reached its zenith during a time of intellectual and artistic brilliance
in the region. It was a period marked by the confluence of diverse philosophical traditions,
including Vedanta, Buddhism, and Shaivism.
The term "Trika" refers to the triad or threefold nature of reality, which is a central theme in
this school of Tantra. The Trika philosophy was expounded in numerous texts, most notably the
works of scholars like Abhinavagupta, Utpaladeva, and Kshemaraja. These luminaries played a
pivotal role in crystallizing the teachings of Trika and transmitting them to subsequent
generations.
FUNDAMENTAL TENETS:

1. Non-Dualism (Advaita): At the core of Trika philosophy lies the principle of non-
dualism, asserting that ultimate reality is a singular, undivided consciousness. This
concept challenges the conventional understanding of reality as a dichotomy between
subject and object, self and other.
2. Recognition of the Divine:The Trika School emphasizes the recognition of the divine
within every individual. It posits that the ultimate reality, often referred to as Shiva or
the Supreme Consciousness, is not distant but immanent in all aspects of creation.
The process of recognizing and experiencing this divine essence within oneself is
central to the transformative journey of a practitioner.

3. Spanda (Pulsation):Trika introduces the concept of Spanda, which is the cosmic

pulsation or vibration that underlies all of existence. It represents the dynamic and
creative aspect of the Supreme Consciousness, manifesting as the continuous pulsation
of the universe.

4. Tantric Rituals and Practices:Trika Tantra is not merely a theoretical philosophy but
also a practical path that involves specific rituals and practices. These may include
meditation, mantra chanting, visualization, and sacred ceremonies designed to elevate
consciousness and attune the practitioner to the divine.

PATHWAYS TO LIBERATION:

Trika Tantra delineates various paths to spiritual liberation, recognizing the diversity of human
nature and inclinations. Three main paths, often referred to as Upayas, are:
 1. Anupaya (Path of Direct Awareness):This path is characterized by an immediate and
direct realization of one's divine nature. It involves recognizing and embracing the
inherent divinity within oneself without relying on external rituals or methods.

2. Shambhavopaya (Path of Spiritual Contemplation):Shambhavopaya involves

contemplative practices, meditation, and the use of mantra to lead the practitioner to a
state of heightened awareness. Through these practices, individuals seek to pierce
through the veils of illusion and perceive the ultimate reality.

3. Shaktopaya (Path of Energy and Ritual):Shaktopaya involves the use of ritualistic

practices, including the manipulation of energy (Shakti), to awaken higher states of
consciousness. This path recognizes the potency of divine energy in the process of self-
realization.

RITUALS AND SYMBOLISM:

Trika Tantra employs a rich tapestry of rituals and symbolism, each designed to convey
profound metaphysical truths. Yantras (sacred geometrical diagrams), mantras (sacred chants),
and mudras (symbolic gestures) play a significant role in these practices. The rituals are not
seen as mere external acts but as means to invoke and align with the divine forces inherent in
the cosmos.
CONTEMPORARY RELEVANCE:

While the historical context of the Trika School of Tantra is rooted in ancient Kashmir, its
teachings continue to resonate in contemporary spiritual discourse. The emphasis on direct
experience, the recognition of the divine within, and the integration of diverse spiritual
practices make Trika Tantra a relevant and adaptable path for seekers in the present day.
In conclusion, the Trika School of Tantra stands as a beacon of profound wisdom and spiritual
insight. Its teachings provide a holistic framework for understanding the nature of reality, the
divine, and the transformative potential within each individual. Whether through the
contemplative practices of Shambhavopaya, the direct realization of Anupaya, or the ritualistic
approach of Shaktopaya, the Trika School offers a diverse array of pathways for those on the
journey of self-discovery and spiritual evolution.

Trika Tantra, a profound Shaiva philosophy, offers a unique lens through which we can
understand the transformative phenomenon of Shaktipata. At its core, Shaktipata is the descent
of divine energy, a catalyst for spiritual awakening. In this exploration, we'll delve into the
essence of Shaktipata from the Trika Tantra perspective, clarifying common misconceptions
and shedding light on the truths that guide seekers on this transformative journey.
The Essence of Shaktipata
Shaktipata, derived from Sanskrit, signifies the transmission of divine energy to the seeker. In
Trika Tantra, this process is viewed as the awakening of Kundalini energy – the dormant
spiritual force within. Contrary to misconceptions, Shaktipata is not an exclusive experience; it
is a universal offering accessible to all earnest seekers regardless of background or lineage.
Misconception: Shaktipata is Reserved for the Chosen Few
It's a common misunderstanding that Shaktipata is a privilege reserved for a spiritual elite.
However, the truth is that divine grace flows democratically, embracing individuals with open
hearts and sincere intentions. Shaktipata is not about worthiness; it is an inclusive invitation to
explore the path of self-realization.
Truth: Shaktipata Unlocks the Potential Within
Shaktipata is not a gift bestowed from external forces but a catalyst that awakens the dormant
potential within each individual. This divine grace initiates profound inner transformations,
allowing seekers to tap into their innate divinity. The journey becomes a discovery of
interconnectedness and the boundless reservoir of spiritual energy within.
Misconception: Shaktipata is an Instantaneous Miracle
Expectations often revolve around Shaktipata being an instantaneous, dramatic transformation.
However, the reality is that this journey is often gradual, unfolding at its own pace. Patience
and surrender become essential virtues as the divine grace works subtly, aligning seekers with
higher states of consciousness over time.
Truth: Shaktipata is a Continuous Unfolding
Shaktipata unfolds as a continuous process, marked by transformative moments on the spiritual
journey. These moments vary from subtle shifts in perception to profound states of bliss and
awareness. Embracing the ebb and flow of divine grace becomes paramount, understanding that
each step is a crucial part of the intricate dance toward self-realization.
Misconception: Shaktipata Negates the Importance of Self-Effort
Some believe that relying on Shaktipata diminishes the importance of personal effort on the
spiritual path. This misconception arises from the notion that divine grace makes personal
practices unnecessary. In reality, Shaktipata and self-effort are not mutually exclusive; they
complement each other. Self-effort prepares the seeker to receive and integrate divine grace.
Truth: Shaktipata and Self-Effort Are Inseparable
Trika Tantra emphasizes the synergy between Shaktipata and self-effort. While divine grace
serves as a catalyst, self-effort involves a sincere commitment to spiritual practices, self-
inquiry, and ethical living. The intertwining of these aspects creates a harmonious balance,
fostering the holistic development of the spiritual aspirant.
Misconception: Shaktipata Leads to a Detached Existence
There's a prevalent misconception that Shaktipata propels individuals into a detached,
otherworldly existence, disconnected from daily life. This notion misunderstands the true
essence of Shaktipata.
Truth: Shaktipata Integrates Spirituality into Daily Life
Shaktipata, as understood in Trika Tantra, is not an escape from the world but an integration of
the divine into everyday existence. The awakened seeker engages with life more fully,
embracing both the mundane and the sacred. This integration leads to a harmonious balance,
where spiritual awareness enriches every facet of life.
Shaktipata, as perceived through the lens of Trika Tantra, unveils a universal gift accessible to
all seekers. Dispelling misconceptions allows us to understand this divine grace as a continuous
unfolding, in synergy with self-effort and seamlessly integrated into daily life. In this gentle
dance, seekers discover the profound beauty of the journey toward self-realization, guided by
the ever-flowing river of divine grace.
Love Light and Grace
~ Amitabh

Art By Shakti.samadhi.design

In Tantra Yoga, kundalini shakti is divided into three types according to the three fundamental
levels of consciousness and existence—Shiva (absolute consciousness), Shakti (universal
energy), and nara (the limited human being identified with his/her personality). The three
corresponding aspects of kundalini are known as para kundalini, chit kundalini, and prana
kundalini.
Para Kundalini
According to Kashmir Shaivism, para kundalini is the supreme kundalini, representing the state
of absolute unity. Para refers to the Supreme. It constitutes the absolute freedom and will of
Shiva. At a metaphysical level, it represents the essential nature of the Absolute. Upon
manifesting, para kundalini transforms herself into a sleeping snake, and this aspect is known
as the shakti kundalini. It is as shakti kundalini that para kundalini is said to be prakasha (the
source of the light of consciousness), the power by which consciousness reveals itself as well as
that upon which its light falls.
Para kundalini, because of her transcendence, is not experienced as long as the laws of the body
bind us. At the time of physical death we can perceive para kundalini, experienced as the
revelation of ourselves as being one with the Universe.
What differentiates the experience of para kundalini from that of chit kundalini and prana
kundalini is that, upon the arousal of kundalini, the energy of the breath that enters sushumna
nadi does not touch the six chakras that are along the spine. Instead, it goes upwards without
any impediment. In the case of chit kundalini or prana kundalini, the energy of the breath
(prana shakti) has to penetrate the six chakras so that the path may be cleared of all
obstructions.
Chit Kundalini or Cit Kundalini
Chit kundalini is the aspect of shakti (energy) that makes beings conscious. Chit means “Pure
Awareness.” In such a kundalini awakening, it is not the energetic sensation in the spine that is
emphasized, but the state of pure neutrality, the balance between polar energies expressed as
the revelation of madhyama (the center), the unimpeded freedom of the Absolute.
Prana Kundalini
Prana kundalini is the aspect related to the breath. In prana kundalini, the emphasis is on prana
(energy), not on awareness (even though, of course, awareness is still present). In Kashmir
Shaivism, it represents the lower form of kundalini and it is the one to which kundalini
experiences most often refer.
Speaking about the difference between chit kundalini and prana kundalini, Swami
Lakshmanjoo affirmed: “Whether you experience the rise of kundalini as chit kundalini or as
prana kundalini depends on your attachments. If you have longing for spirituality and also
attachment for worldly pleasures, then the rise of kundalini takes place in the form of prana
kundalini. If you do not have attachments for worldly pleasures and are only longing for
spirituality, then the rise of kundalini takes place in the form of chit kundalini. There is nothing
you can do to determine how the rise of kundalini will take place. It rises in its own way,
depending on your attachments.”
_swami lakshmanjoo