The kularnava tantra is the basic practice that is suggested for the clan system and mentioned in the Vedic texts of ancient times. It is a specific path for the clans system. The equivalence of the two parts in the material and spiritual worlds is a specific teaching of Kaula Tantra. It is not about Sakti alone or Shiva separately; it is the integration and importance of both.
For the harmonious nature of the world, it is necessary to respect and worship both paths. In various teachings of Agamas ( Tantra Teaching Philosophy), all spoils are part of Prabhrama, like sparks are part of fire. Kularnava Tantra represents Prabhrama as "Shiv" and Shakti as "Parvati" (consort of shiv as per Purana).
What are Agamas in Tantra?
Tantra in Agamas is are teaching of spiritual practices without focused knowledge and rituals. They are beneficial for the sadhna path and considered a complex system by other non-followers. In simple language, they are also known as a collection of scriptures. There are three types of Agamas:
- Vaishnava Agamas:- They are focused on the scriptures of Vishnu.
- Shaiva Agamas:- They are focused on Shiva as their deity.
- Shakta Agamas:- They are focused on the Divine goddess known as Shakti.
There are different features of Agamas, like the practice of the philosophy through which this system originated. Other features are related to temple worship and living rituals. It is also said that these are conversations between Shiv and Shakti or Vishnu and Lakshmi. So, these are meaningful rituals which is specified in the collection of scriptures.
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What are the Key Teachings of the Kularnava Tantra?
The word ‘kula” has a different meaning; it represents the clan system. It represents worship of both elements in nature. The second word is ‘Arnava,’ which means ocean, so these are the teachings for lineages and rituals or traditions ocean. Tantra is presented as a path of liberation from worldly desire, and it is medivel Tantra texts which is written in the form of dialogues between god and Goddess.
For the better guidance of the Kularnava Tantra or key features of the practice:
- Focus on the deep inner realisations while practising rituals in the outside world.
- According to the Kularnava Tantra Guru can reveal truth and is considered greater than a deity.
- It is part of the Guru Parampara, and it tells the importance of Guru.
- Diksha is a form of ritual in which an individual receives acknowledgement of having a Guru, and without this par there are no further proceedings.
- The third path is Sadhna, in which various methods of Kundalini awakening are practised.
- Sadhna Marg is completed with different rituals, including chanting and Panchkarma.
- The unity of Shiva and Shakti is within, and realising it is the completion of the next stage.
- Going on the Kaula path, which frees an individual from worldly desires and brings a state of liberation (Moksha).
- Moral discipline and practices with secrecy are key teachings in the last, but it is also misunderstood as one that reduces discipline.
Significance of Kaula Tantra
Kularnava Tantra is based on the Shaiva-Shakta Agamas and is considered one of the major texts. It combines three elements: philosophy, yoga and ritual. There is a specific relation of Kundalini awakening with Kaula Tantra. Firstly, Hatha yoga practitioners practice Kaula Tantra and go to awakening later.
It is the only point of intersection between yoga and Tantra Practice. Means it is always necessary to prepare the body for different practices. It is studied by different saints and sages who are seeking an esoteric path. Although tantra is about the secret practices, and there is no proper schooling of Tantra, the modern philosophy of it also derives its motivation from Kaula Tantra.
This path of Tantra is considered a direct method of liberation and a way to integrate with Shiva again. It is also suggested that no one should practice this without Guru Diksha. It is a risky path without proper knowledge and should be considered only if you ensure the methodologies.
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Conclusion
Kularnava Tantra is a specific collection of the scriptures that is presented in the form of dialogues between Shiv and Shakti. The two natures of the universe are anti and depend on each other, through which life forces come into action. This scripture is the basis of different modern Tantra teachings.
The points of intersection where tantra meets discipline are yoga. Any Sadhak have to go through this path in a disciplined manner. A person should practice the teachings of the Kularnava Tantra under the guidance of a Guru; otherwise, it may prove harmful for the person.