Shakti and Shakta

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

—

Title

Shakti and Shakta

Language

en

Book source

Global Grey

Description max 80 words

Arthur Avalon explores the foundational principles of Tantric thought and the Shakta tradition, presenting Shakti not as a mere feminine symbol but as the dynamic, conscious power of the universe itself. This esoteric work bridges Vedic philosophy and Tantra, offering a profound synthesis of Indian religion as a unified cosmic order.

Summary up to 500 words

In 'Shakti and Shakta,' Arthur Avalon (John Woodroffe) constructs a comprehensive philosophical framework for understanding the Shakta tradition within the broader context of Indian religion, or Bharata Dharma. The text begins by establishing that the universe is an ordered cosmos upheld by Dharma, rejecting the notion of chaos. Avalon argues that while Indian religion is often perceived as a 'jungle' of contradictions, it rests on common Aryan principles shared by Brahmanism, Buddhism, and Jainism. The core argument centers on the nature of Shakti. Contrasting the Mayavada Vedanta of Shankara, which views the world as an illusion (Maya) veiling a formless Brahman, Avalon presents the Shakta Advaitavada. In this view, the universe is real because it is the manifestation of Shiva-Shakti. Shakti is not an unconscious force but Consciousness itself veiling itself to create the appearance of duality. Avalon explains that Shiva represents static being, while Shakti represents the power to become; without Shakti, Shiva is a 'corpse.' The book systematically details the thirty-six Tattvas, the nature of Maya as the 'form of the formless,' and the reality of the world as the Divine Mother. It addresses the relationship between the individual soul (Jivatma) and the Supreme Spirit (Paramatma), asserting their essential identity. Avalon also examines the psychological aspects of ritual, the significance of mantras, and the concept of Kundalini yoga. He defends the practical value of Tantra for the masses, distinguishing it from the ascetic detachment of pure Vedanta, arguing that true liberation involves enjoying the world while remaining spiritually grounded. Ultimately, the work posits that the Absolute is an 'Experience-Whole' that is both changeless Being and unending process, reconciling dualism and non-dualism. Avalon emphasizes that the world is not a projection of the individual mind but a co-effect of the Supreme Being's veiling power. He clarifies that while the Absolute is beyond relation, it also involves all relations within itself, making the universe a real manifestation of Consciousness. The text concludes that the doctrine of Shakti is a profound and practical teaching worthy of careful study, offering a strengthening pragmatic value for all classes of worshippers that pure intellectual Vedanta lacks.

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4.2/5

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Categories

• Religion