Abhinavagupta – the philosopher and literary genius who reinterpreted the meaning of Shaivism
Kashmiri Shaivism, or Pratyabhijna, is a practice that considers Shiva as the supreme deity and absolute reality. It is an idealistic and monistic school, unlike the realistic and dualistic world otherwise.
New Delhi: When one thinks about the Kashmir Valley, picturesque mountains, scenic landscapes and misty lakes come to mind. It’s a unique blend of culture, couture and cuisine – something that is so distinct from the rest of India and yet an extension of marvel.
Kashmir a millennium ago was not the Kashmir we know today. Back then, we didn't have geographical boundaries that divided land mass, nor were there conflicts over religious beliefs. Seers and Sufi saints preached doctrines of various religions and showed holy paths towards a better life and afterlife. Abhinavagupta was one such person who mastered the spiritual way of life. An ardent worshipper of Lord Shiva, he was a philosopher, an ascetic and a master in Shaivism.
Kashmiri Shaivism, or Pratyabhijna, is a practice that considers Shiva as the supreme deity and absolute reality. It is an idealistic and monistic school, unlike the realistic and dualistic world otherwise. Abhinavagupta is considered the pride of Kashmir for his exemplary understanding of Shiva and his concept of Shaivism.
Abhinavagupta was a radical thinker who shattered the common beliefs of caste divides and gender discriminations through spirituality. His philosophies quashed the usual norm that is believed to have determined the spirituality of people, one which was mired in disciplines and structures, which then made the journey to enlightenment an achievable dream only for a chosen few.
He despised the idea that spiritual epiphany was attainable only in a monastic environment and that those who were busy with their day to day lives would have had to wait till the last stage of their lives before they could immerse themselves into spiritual quests.
The ascetic accomplished a rare feat of attaining eight siddhi, or enlightenment, powers, of which he showed only a few, such as unwavering devotion to Shiva, absolute mantra siddhi, control over the five elements of nature (earth, water, fire, air, space), power to accomplish any desire, command over literature and poetry, and an unending reservoir of philosophies.
Shiva is the epitome of reality in the Hindu belief and is considered the destroyer of the universe. His power reflects in five key aspects of nature, that of chithh (consciousness), anand (joy), ichha (desire), gyana (knowledge) and kriya (deed). For those who adhere to Kashmir Shaivism, one can attain moksha (liberation from the body) through profound meditation of Shiva as the absolute reality and supreme entity.
One of Abhinavagupta's most recognised works is the Ishvara Pratyabhijna Vimarshini, commentary on the recognition of God. His poems and literary works are considered one of the best in the world, and his mastery has been passed on from generation to generation.
Disclaimer: The views expressed by the author are personal.