Spirituality

Vijnana Bhairava Tantra: 6 key ideas

by Kashmir Shaiva tradition (trad.)

The core ideas of Vijnana Bhairava Tantra, each in under a minute, written in our own words. Want the full depth? Get the book.

1. IDEA 1 OF 6

   112 doorways to awareness

   In a dialogue, Devi asks Shiva about the nature of reality, and he answers with 112 short meditations.

   Each is a doorway into awareness.

2. IDEA 2 OF 6

   The pause between breaths

   Notice the brief pause where the in-breath turns into the out-breath.

   In that gap the mind falls quiet.

3. IDEA 3 OF 6

   Wonder opens the door

   Moments of wonder, sudden surprise or deep joy can drop us into pure awareness.

   Pay attention to them.

4. IDEA 4 OF 6

   Feel the space

   Rest attention on the space inside and around things.

   Space is everywhere and holds everything.

5. IDEA 5 OF 6

   Joy as meditation

   Fully savour a taste or a piece of music and rest in the delight itself.

   Joy, attended to, becomes meditation.

6. IDEA 6 OF 6

   Many paths for many minds

   With so many methods, the text suggests that different people suit different practices.

   There is no single right way.