Almost everyone today is grappling with some form of challenge or difficulty, seeking relief through a single solution: meditation. The growing appeal of meditation stems from its promise to free us from unnecessary stress and tension. While many attempt meditation, only a rare few achieve success. The cause of failure does not lie within the individual but rather in the method itself. The ancient science of Tantra offers a solution to this challenge.
Tantra is the straightforward yet profound path that begins with the soul and leads to the Divine. While it is both simple and arduous, its most remarkable quality is its unconditional acceptance of you exactly as you are. It does not ask you to abandon your faith, beliefs, or even your worldly activities. It only suggests relinquishing attachment to knowledge because such attachment fosters ego, the primary obstacle on the path to transcendence. Even if letting go seems impossible, Tantra imposes no barriers. Progress may take longer, but as you advance on this path, everything unnecessary will naturally fall away.
Who Is Best Suited for Tantra?
The one who can master Tantra most easily is a lover—someone who loves deeply, whether it is self-love, love for their body, or universal love. However, loving oneself does not mean excessive indulgence in beautification, wearing extravagant attire, or spending hours in physical exercise. While these activities have their place in modern life, true love for the body begins within. Gradually, this inner love manifests outwardly, radiating a natural glow that surprises not only you but those around you.
The Difference Between Spirituality and Tantra
The key distinction between spirituality (adhyatma) and Tantra lies in their approach. Spirituality demands inner and outer purification before accepting you and showing you the path forward. Tantra, however, requires no such purification. It embraces you as you are, without asking you to change or abandon anything.
Curiosity About Vijnana Bhairava Tantra
Many ask questions such as:
- What is the Vijnana Bhairava Tantra?
- Why have we never heard of it before?
- Who authored it?
- Why does it feature both Bhairava and Tantra?
- Why does it contain exactly 112 methods and not more or less?
It is believed that the Vijnana Bhairava Tantra was composed by Guru Kṣemarāja between the 7th and 9th centuries. Though it remained obscure for centuries, it was first published in 1918, bringing this profound text to light.
The Vijnana Bhairava Tantra is considered one of the most significant spiritual texts in the world. It uniquely presents simple methods for realizing the Divine, transcending the barriers of religion, caste, gender, or status. This text should not be viewed through the lens of religion but as a universal guide to reclaiming joy in life.
The Meaning of Vijnana Bhairava Tantra
- Vijnana: Supreme knowledge or wisdom.
- Bhairava: A form of Shiva that transcends fear and ignorance, representing ultimate awareness.
- Tantra: The system or method that expands consciousness and connects the individual to the cosmos.
Thus, Vijnana Bhairava Tantra translates to “The Wisdom of the Fearless Divine,” offering pathways to unite with God. The text begins with a dialogue between Shiva and Shakti, wherein Shakti, the divine energy of Shiva, asks profound questions that reflect the spiritual seeker’s quest for self-realization.
Kashmiri Shaivism and the Advaita Philosophy
Rooted in Kashmiri Shaivism, the Vijnana Bhairava Tantra embodies the philosophy of non-duality (Advaita). Unlike dualistic philosophies, which see humans and God as separate entities, Advaita asserts that there is no separation; only God exists. The union with the Divine is not a merging of two but the realization of what already is—our inherent divinity. When the mind becomes tranquil, the ego dissolves, and the true divine nature within us emerges. Liberation, according to this philosophy, is nothing but the awakening of our divine essence.
Is the Vijnana Bhairava Tantra Tantra or Yoga?
The text seamlessly blends elements of both Tantra and Yoga. Initially, Yoga was part of Tantra, but over time, Tantra incorporated rituals and practices that distinguished it from traditional Yoga. It is a misconception that Tantra is solely about physical pleasures. In reality, Tantra is primarily a path to self-realization. Of the 112 methods described in this text, only three involve the use of physical union as a means to higher awareness.
Why 112 Methods?
Many wonder why the text specifically contains 112 methods and not more or fewer. This precise number corresponds to the diverse ways human beings can experience and access higher states of consciousness. These methods are tailored to accommodate the varied physical, mental, and emotional conditions of individuals.
When carefully studied, one realizes that the 112 methods overlap in subtle ways. What may appear similar on the surface reveals profound differences when deeply understood through practice. The true essence of each method becomes apparent only to those who dive deeply into the practice of meditation.
The Methods in Vijnana Bhairava Tantra
The 112 methods include practices centered around breath, thought, the body, dreams, physical sensations, anger, and Kundalini energy. These methods are universal and not restricted to any specific group or individual. The one that resonates with you is the one meant for you. Just as no single medicine cures all illnesses, no single method suits everyone. The diversity in human nature, habits, environment, and circumstances necessitates this variety.
How to Practice?
Select a method that appeals to you and practice it diligently for 15 to 25 days. If the method aligns with your nature, you will progress naturally. If not, you can explore another. The text encourages perseverance and experimentation, guiding seekers to find the path most suitable for their unique being.
