This book explores one of the most explicit and sophisticated theoretical formulations of tantric yoga. It explains Abhinavagupta s teaching about the nature of ultimate reality, about the methods for experiencing this ultimate reality, and about the nature of the state of realization, a condition of embodied enlightenment. The author uncovers the conceptual matrix surrounding the practices of the Kaula lineage of Kashmir Shaivism. The primary textual basis for the book is provided by Abhinavagupta s Paratrisika-laghuvrtti, a short meditation manual that centers on the symbolism of the Heart-mantra, SAUH."
Professor Paul Muller-Ortega, Ph.D., is recognized internationally as one of the world’s most highly respected and renowned academic scholars in the field of Indian Religion and Hindu Tantra. He is the founder of Blue Throat Yoga which teaches the elegant Svatantra philosophy of Kashmir Shaivism along with the practice of Neelakantha Meditation. For more than forty years, Paul has been a pioneer in the technology of Consciousness, lecturing and teaching about meditation and Indian philosophy to hundreds of thousands of people in North and South America, Europe, and India. Through his books, articles, essays, commentaries, and translations, Paul has earned a reputation for his unparalleled scholarly authenticity, as well as being a charismatic teacher with a remarkable capacity to convey esoteric truths and teachings in ways that are fully accessible, relevant, and comprehensible to the western mind.
Anyone interested Kashmir Shaivism, the Trika, and/or Classical Hindu Tantra should read this book. If only because it has been so highly influential in shaping public opinion on these topics. What is quoted and written here by Paul have been echoed by my teachers and speakers for years. Reading this book felt like encountering someone you've heard about but never met. It's not an easy read for beginners, but once you have a grasp of the basic concepts non-dual Shaivism and common Sanskrit terms, it's a joy.
Very deep rendering on this beautiful tradition. It is not the most accessible book though, be sure that you like more academic books before diving into this one. If you are like me you will enjoy it again and again !