Shaivism

The Trika philosophy of Kashmir Shaivism is beautifully expressed in the first verse of Shivadristi, composed by the great Shaiva Master Somananda, founder of the Pratyabhijnana System of Shaiva Philosophy.

"Let Shiva, who is my Self, let Shiva do pranam (bow down) to his real nature – to Universal Shiva, by his own Shakti, for removing the bondage and limitation, which is Shiva."

Here, Shiva bows to himself, for the removal of obstacles, which are also Shiva, through his own energy (shakti) which is one with Shiva, and in the end He resides in the state of universal Shiva. That is the state of Para (Supreme) Bhairava!

In Trika Shaivism, although the word 'Trika' indicates three, everything is found in a state of oneness. From the Trika point of view there isn't the slightest difference between individual soul and Lord Shiva, it is just a play, a drama of His own nature.

The philosophy of Trika Shaivism is unique and original. For the sincere seeker of Truth it holds the wonderful vision of the whole world as real and not illusion. Trika philosophy teaches that this world is nothing but the blissful energy of the all-pervading consciousness of Lord Shiva.

May the grace of Lord Shiva shine upon you.

View more photos of Swami Lakshmanjoo at the Shrine