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In [classical Tantrik philosophy], Prakasha (प्रकाशा) and Vimarsha (विमर्श) represent the dual aspects of consciousness: Prakasha is the illuminating light or manifestation of consciousness, while Vimarsha is the power of self-awareness or reflection. Prakasha is often associated with Shiva, representing the universal consciousness, while Vimarsha is linked to the Goddess, embodying the power of self-representation. 

Elaboration:

• Prakasha:

  Prakasha is the universal consciousness, the source of all existence. It’s the light that illuminates everything, the ground of reality. It can also be understood as the manifestation of the divine, the way in which the divine appears in the world.

• Vimarsha:

  Vimarsha is the power of self-awareness or self-reflection. It’s the ability to recognize ourselves as part of the universal consciousness. It’s also the power by which the divine re-presents itself, creating the individual experiences we have. 

In essence, Prakasha and Vimarsha are two sides of the same coin. Prakasha is the light that illuminates, while Vimarsha is the reflection that allows us to perceive that light. They are interdependent and crucial for understanding the nature of consciousness and the divine.

Tantrism and Shaivism are both important traditions within Hinduism, but they differ in their focus and approach. Shaivism, a major sect of Hinduism, centers on the worship of Shiva as the supreme being, emphasizing his role as the creator, preserver, and destroyer. Tantrism, on the other hand, is a spiritual practice that encompasses various techniques and rituals, aimed at transforming the individual and achieving spiritual enlightenment through the use of energy and consciousness. 

Here’s a more detailed comparison:

Shaivism: 

• Focus:

  Worship of Shiva as the supreme being, encompassing his role in the cosmic cycle of creation, preservation, and destruction.

• Practices:

  Involves various rituals, mantras, and meditations to connect with Shiva and achieve spiritual liberation.

• Beliefs:

  Shaivas believe that Shiva is the ultimate reality, the source of all creation, and the one who guides individuals towards self-realization. 

Tantrism:

• Focus:

  Transformation of the individual through the use of various practices, including rituals, meditation, and the cultivation of energy. 

• Practices:

  Employs a wide range of techniques, including yoga, breathing exercises, mantras, and rituals, to purify the mind and body and tap into spiritual powers. 

• Beliefs:

  Tantric traditions emphasize the interconnectedness of all things, the power of consciousness, and the potential for transformation through the use of energy and ritual. 

Relationship: 

• Shared Roots:

  Both Shaivism and Tantrism have deep roots in ancient Hindu traditions, and Tantric practices have been integrated into Shaiva traditions, particularly in Kashmir Shaivism. 

• Tantric Practices in Shaivism:

  Shaivism incorporates Tantric practices like yoga, meditation, and rituals to achieve spiritual goals, particularly in the Shaiva Siddhanta and Kashmir Shaivism traditions. 

• Shiva and Shakti:

  Tantrism often incorporates the concept of Shiva and Shakti (his divine consort), representing the masculine and feminine aspects of the divine, which are also central to Shaivism. 

In essence, Shaivism provides the overarching framework of worshipping Shiva as the supreme being, while Tantrism offers a variety of techniques and practices to facilitate spiritual growth and enlightenment within that framework.

Classical Tantra is a spiritual movement originating on the Indian subcontinent between the 3rd and 12th centuries, encompassing a variety of practices aimed at achieving spiritual liberation through the cultivation of awareness and psychophysical techniques. It’s a system of practices focused on embodied liberation (jīvanmukti) and sees the universe as a microcosm of the individual. Tantra emphasizes the integration of the spiritual and physical, with practices like rituals, meditation, and visualization to achieve enlightenment. 

Here’s a more detailed look at key aspects of Classical Tantra:

Core Principles:

• Non-dualism:

  Tantra, particularly in its connection to Advaita Vedanta, emphasizes the non-dual nature of reality, seeing the universe as a manifestation of a single, ultimate reality (Shiva or Brahman). 

• Interconnectedness:

  Tantra views the individual and the cosmos as interconnected, with the same forces governing both the macrocosmic universe and the microcosmic individual, according to Stanford University. 

• Embodiment:

  Tantra emphasizes the importance of the physical body as a vehicle for spiritual realization, encouraging practices that integrate mind, body, and spirit. 

• Liberation in this lifetime:

  Tantra aims for jīvanmukti, or liberation while still living, rather than waiting for death, according to Tantra Illuminated. 

Practices:

• Rituals: Tantric practices involve elaborate rituals, often incorporating elements like incense, flowers, and the worship of deities. 

• Meditation: Meditation is a crucial component of Tantra, used to deepen awareness and connect with the divine. 

• Visualization: Visualization techniques, particularly in deity yoga, are used to realize oneself as a manifestation of a Tantric deity, according to Yogapedia. 

• **Mandalas: Mandalas, intricate geometric patterns, are used as a focal point for meditation and visualization, aiding in the development of spiritual insight. 

• **Yoga: Yoga, in its various forms, is also a significant aspect of Tantric practice, focusing on the physical and mental aspects of spiritual cultivation. 

Types of Tantra:

• **Kriya Tantra: Focuses on external activities and rituals, often involving purification practices, according to SamyeLing.org. 

• Carya Tantra: Balances external activities with inner meditative stability, striking a balance between the physical and spiritual. 

• Yoga Tantra: Emphasizes yogic practices and techniques to cultivate inner awareness and achieve enlightenment, according to Yogapedia. 

• Anuttarayoga Tantra: The highest form of Tantra, involving advanced practices and teachings, according to SamyeLing.org. 

Tantra and the “Left-Hand Path”:

• Some Tantric traditions, particularly those associated with the “Left-Hand Path” (vāmācārin), incorporate elements that may seem counterintuitive or even controversial, such as the use of forbidden substances or practices, wikipedia/en/Panchamakara.
• These practices are often seen as a way to break through limiting beliefs and transcend conventional boundaries, wikipedia/en/Panchamakara.