Merging With Siva: Hinduism's Contemporary Metaphysics

by Sivaya Subramuniyaswami

Spirituality in the New Age has tended to reflect our technological obsessions. It is, usually, verbose, complicated and complex. The problem with this approach is that it works with the mind, even perhaps the emotions, but does not speak to the essential self. So much modern spiritual literature works to compete in the world with secular and mainstream writing, hence rather than really reaching us it simply presents another theory, another technique, a new form of yoga or meditation. This penchant for novelty may fill a consumer need, but does not necessarily feed the soul. "Merging with Siva" is a very different sort of book. Its heart is comprised of 365 short sections which can be read in a year, spending around 10 minutes a day. Each section is very easy to read, simple and written in a direct style. It is only throughout the next day as you think over what you have read that you begin to realize the strength of each message. "Merging with Siva" embodies the concept that there is immense power in simplicity. Each section while flowing effortlessly seems to bypass emotions, intellect and body and touch something much deeper. While it may only take 10 minutes to read, one wonders if there is not a lifetime of meaning condensed into each passage. Condensing and distilling--each of these words describe "Merging with Siva." It is as though through a unique alchemical process the secrets of life have been condensed into simple but poignant and powerful expressions. The beauty of teaching in bite sized packages is the way in which quite complex subjects can be slowly unveiled. "Merging with Siva" is like building a house, each brick is placed onto another until the whole edifice is revealed. This allows us to contemplate individual concepts which interconnect as the whole picture is unveiled. Accordingly, difficult and complex matters are taught with an ease which would make many school teachers jealous! I personally find the Self God, which is included at the start of the book very meaningful. I first came across it many, many years ago in a small booklet I found at a second hand store. It was an ecstatic experience as I read what seemed to be like nectar, juice squeezed from the fruit of spiritual experience. This one booklet led me on a journey that culminated in my personal contact with the Himalayan Academy. It is included at the start of "Merging with Siva," printed in the handwriting of Subramuniyaswami. At first this seems annoying, even a nuisance. It cannot be quickly read or glossed over. Here, then, is the importance and power of the text. As you work to read each work, phrase and paragraph its message and vision begins to unfold. It is a great way to begin your journey through Merging with Siva. There is so much more in this book that it is hard to summarize. There is, of course, good solid background information on the tradition of Saiva its theology and practise and certainly more than enough to provide one of the better introductions to Shaivism as a living spiritual tradition. But what makes Merging with Siva so unique is its ability to bring that living tradition within reach of the seeker. It slowly draws the reader into a deep understanding of themselves, the universe and the great "spiritual chain of being" of which we are part. It does so simply, succinctly and yet with great erudition and wisdom. Merging with Siva is a modest text. There is no new age hype, no outrageous claims, no UFO abductions nor calls to the bizarre or garish. There is a simple and honest presentation of the distilled wisdom of a lifetime and this makes Merging with Siva very rare and quite unique. In my personal collection I consider it one of the most important books I have. Its presentation matches its content. Superb. It is beautifully illustrated, easy on the eye and professionally presented. I commend Merging with Siva to you. Whether you are simply curious or a deep seeker, you will find something of great value here.

Genres: Hinduism, Nonfiction, Spirituality

1408 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 1999

Reviews

[Brett C · Rating 4 out of 5]

Full of wisdom and daily devotionals to make you a better person. Long, you may need to use the glossary in the back often, and a good start to self-improvement.

[Andromeda · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lot of hard work has, certainly, gone into writing this invaluable book, which is an immense compendium of detailed and useful information not only on Hinduism, not least Saiva Siddhanta, but also on the purpose of human life, psychology, mind, meditation, karma, death and dying.

People who are keen on learning about Kundalini Yoga, chakras, auras, concentration, sadhana, satsang and self-realisation ought to study this text, which is born out of the author's highest attainment: Enlightenment.

This book will also serve as a valuable text for anyone who wants to do a deep study of the Saiva Siddhanta tradition, its philosophy and tenets, about which very little has, thus far, been written in modern, clear and unambiguous English.

In my view, this is the culmination of "Loving Ganesa" and "Dancing with Siva", which can be treated as significant preambles to this treatise on the human mind that always tries to fathom the enigma of existence and creation in general.

[bad · Rating 5 out of 5]

this is the last book in a trilogy of student manuals for a self-study course in the yoga of unification, from the perspective of shaiva siddhanta (a monotheistic shaivite tradition spanning thousands of years). this course describes basic philosophical attitudes, methods of conduct, and helpful advice. the last section contains helpful resources for yogic practices, including an extensive manual of the stages or phases of consciousness of the human mind. i found this one at a hole-in-the-wall used bookstore (total score), but i have the other two on the way, and oh boy, i can hardly wait!

[Ralph Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I stumbled onto this book in a bookstore in Bermuda. It's a classic.

[Poiboy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful book, with lovely and accessible lessons for every day of the year and life. The section entitled the Self God is an essential read for any spiritualist.

[Greene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Merging With Siva is a profound exploration of Hindu metaphysics, authored by Sivaya Subramuniyaswami, a prominent figure in the Shaiva Siddhanta tradition. This work serves as both a spiritual guide and a philosophical treatise, elucidating the intricate relationship between the individual soul and the divine.

Sivaya Subramuniyaswami was instrumental in bringing Hindu teachings to a Western audience. His background in the Shaiva Siddhanta tradition informs his perspectives on metaphysics and spirituality. The book emerges from a time when there was a growing interest in Eastern philosophies in the West, particularly during the mid-20th century. This context is crucial for understanding how Subramuniyaswami aimed to bridge cultural gaps while maintaining the integrity of Hindu teachings.

Core Themes

1. The Nature of Reality

A central theme of Merging With Siva is the exploration of reality through the lens of non-duality (Advaita) and duality (Dvaita). Subramuniyaswami articulates that while the individual soul (Atman) appears separate from God (Siva), they are ultimately one. This perspective aligns with traditional Hindu thought but is presented in a manner that resonates with contemporary seekers.

2. Spiritual Practices

The book emphasizes various spiritual practices essential for realizing one's divine nature. Subramuniyaswami outlines methods such as meditation, yoga, and devotion (Bhakti) as pathways to achieve union with Siva. He underscores the importance of discipline and regular practice, suggesting that spiritual growth requires consistent effort and dedication.

3. The Role of Grace

Subramuniyaswami discusses the interplay between individual effort and divine grace. He posits that while personal discipline is vital, ultimate realization depends on the grace of God. This duality of effort and grace reflects a nuanced understanding of spiritual attainment within Hinduism.

Philosophical Insights and Literary Styles

Subramuniyaswami's work delves into complex metaphysical concepts such as:
The Nature of Siva: He describes Siva not merely as a deity but as the ultimate reality—an all-encompassing consciousness that transcends form.

The Illusion of Separation: The text addresses the concept of Maya (illusion), arguing that the perceived separation between self and God is an illusion that can be overcome through spiritual practice.

Integration of Paths: The author advocates for an integrative approach to spirituality, suggesting that various paths—be it Bhakti, Jnana (knowledge), or Karma (action)—lead to the same truth.

Subramuniyaswami employs a clear and accessible writing style, making complex metaphysical ideas comprehensible to a broad audience. His use of parables and analogies effectively illustrates profound truths, allowing readers to engage with the material on both intellectual and experiential levels.

Merging With Siva has had a significant impact on contemporary spirituality, particularly among those interested in Hindu philosophy outside India. It serves as an essential text for understanding the metaphysical underpinnings of Hinduism while promoting interfaith dialogue and respect for diverse spiritual paths.

nity. Through its exploration of core Hindu concepts such as non-duality, spiritual practice, and divine grace, Subramuniyaswami offers valuable insights that remain relevant in today's spiritual landscape. The book stands as a testament to his commitment to making ancient wisdom accessible to modern audiences while preserving its depth and richness.

[Nila Ish · Rating 5 out of 5]

Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami's "Merging with Siva" is a monumental undertaking. Clocking in at over 1300 pages and offering a daily lesson plan for an entire year, it promises to be a transformative experience for the dedicated reader. But is it an accessible and enriching journey, or a potentially overwhelming one?

Undoubtedly, the book's greatest strength is its sheer comprehensiveness. Subramuniyaswami, a revered Hindu teacher, lays out a vast array of topics related to Hinduism and the path to spiritual enlightenment. From the metaphysics of the divine to the nitty-gritty of emotional management, "Merging with Siva" offers a one-stop shop for seekers.

This extensive knowledge base can be a goldmine for those genuinely interested in a deep dive into Hindu philosophy and practices. Techniques for meditation, understanding karma, and navigating the subtle realms of chakras are all explored in detail.

However, this very comprehensiveness can also be a hurdle. The daily lesson format, while providing structure, might feel rigid for some readers. The sheer volume of information can be overwhelming, especially for beginners unfamiliar with Hindu concepts. Additionally, the book reflects Subramuniyaswami's monastic background. His emphasis on discipline and self-sacrifice may feel daunting for those seeking a more practical approach to spirituality in a modern world.

"Merging with Siva" is best suited for serious seekers with a strong foundation or prior exposure to Hinduism. Ultimately, "Merging with Siva" is a potent blend of wisdom and challenge. Whether it enlightens or overwhelms depends on the reader's approach and spiritual goals.

[Aira · Rating 5 out of 5]

Subramuniyaswami employs a clear and accessible writing style, making complex metaphysical ideas comprehensible to a broad audience. His use of parables and analogies effectively illustrates profound truths, allowing readers to engage with the material on both intellectual and experiential levels.

The author discusses the interplay between individual effort and divine grace, suggesting that while personal discipline is vital, ultimate realization depends on the grace of God. This nuanced understanding of spiritual attainment reflects a balance between human agency and divine intervention.

"Merging With Siva" has had a significant impact on contemporary spirituality, particularly among those interested in Hindu philosophy outside India. It serves as an essential text for understanding the metaphysical underpinnings of Hinduism while promoting interfaith dialogue and respect for diverse spiritual paths.

The book's emphasis on self-reflection and personal growth encourages readers to consider their own motivations, behaviors, and place in the universe. However, its focus on monastic ideals and discipline may be alienating for those not seeking a fully dedicated monastic life.

"Merging With Siva" stands as a comprehensive guidebook for those seeking to deepen their understanding of Hindu metaphysics and cultivate a meaningful spiritual life. Its blend of traditional wisdom and contemporary relevance makes it a valuable resource for serious seekers on the path of self-realization.

[Key · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book unfolds as a collection of 365 daily lessons, designed to be read and contemplated over the course of a year. The book delves into a vast array of topics, encompassing philosophy, meditation techniques, yogic disciplines, and practical guidance for daily living. Subramuniyaswami's writing style is clear and engaging, making complex concepts accessible to a wide audience. Whether you're a seasoned Hindu practitioner or someone curious about the religion's essence, Merging with Siva offers valuable insights and inspiration.

One of the book's strengths lies in its emphasis on self-reflection and personal growth. Each lesson prompts the reader to consider their own motivations, behaviors, and place in the universe. Subramuniyaswami encourages introspection and challenges readers to confront their limitations while striving for spiritual progress.

However, it's important to acknowledge that the book's focus on monastic ideals might not resonate with everyone. Some readers might find the emphasis on discipline and austerity to be a bit daunting, particularly if they're not seeking a fully dedicated monastic life.

Merging with Siva is ultimately a guidebook for the soul. It provides a roadmap for those seeking to cultivate inner peace, develop a deeper connection to the divine, and live a more meaningful life. While its daily format might not suit every reader's preference, the wisdom it imparts is timeless and can benefit anyone on a spiritual quest.

[Kimberly Simon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a 365 day scriptural reading for those on the path for self realization. The passages are short, inspiring and are of the saivite path. I find they are very compatable with those that study vedanta of any sort. Absolute treasure for those looking for daily inspiration.

[Kimberly Curette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book.