WHAT IS TRIKAS?

Trikas, in the context of Tantra or Hinduism, refers to a philosophical system within Kashmir Shaivism, one of the major schools of Shaivism. It is also known as the Trika Shastra or Trika philosophy.

The word ‘Trika’ means ‘triad’ and represents the three fundamental aspects of reality: Shiva (the ultimate reality or consciousness), Shakti (the energy or active power), and Nara (the individual soul). These three principles are interconnected, and the teachings of Trika Shaivism emphasize the understanding and realization of their unity.

The Trika system emphasizes the universal experience of consciousness and strives to transcend individual ego, aiming for union with the divine. Practices within this tradition often include meditation, mantras, rituals, and other spiritual exercises designed to awaken the inner self and realize the oneness of all existence.

The teachings of Trika are found in various Tantric scriptures, and its philosophies have influenced many aspects of Hindu mysticism and spirituality.

20 points

Here are 20 fundamental points about Trikas tantric philosophy:

1. Triad Principle: Represents the three fundamental aspects: Shiva (consciousness), Shakti (energy), and Nara (individual soul).
2. Non-Dualism: Teaches that all aspects of existence are a unified whole, without distinct separation between individual and universal consciousness.
3. Kashmir Shaivism: Trika philosophy is a sub-school of Kashmir Shaivism, emphasizing self-realization.
4. Spiritual Practices: Includes meditation, mantras, rituals, and yoga to awaken inner awareness.
5. 36 Tattvas: Trika philosophy explains the 36 principles or tattvas that make up the universe, from the physical to the spiritual.
6. Shaktipat: The transmission of spiritual energy from a guru to a disciple is an essential aspect of initiation in Trika tradition.
7. The Three Malas: Describes the three impurities (anava, mayiya, karma) that obscure our true nature.
8. Pratyabhijna: The recognition of one’s divine nature is a central concept.
9. Tantric Texts: Key scriptures include the Rudra Yamala Tantra and the Malini Vijaya Tantra.
10. Emphasis on Experience: Prioritizes direct experience and realization over intellectual knowledge.
11. Guru-Disciple Relationship: The guidance of a spiritual master or guru is highly valued in this tradition.
12. Integration of Opposites: Celebrates the integration of opposites such as male/female, spiritual/material, etc.
13. Chakras and Energy Channels: Focus on subtle energy centers (chakras) and channels (nadis) within the body.
14. Freedom (Svatantrya): Emphasizes the absolute freedom and independence of the Divine.
15. Kundalini Awakening: Practices to awaken the Kundalini energy at the base of the spine.
16. Cultivation of Divine Qualities: Encourages developing qualities like compassion, love, and selflessness.
17. Universe as a Divine Play: Views creation as a divine play (Lila) of consciousness and energy.
18. Aesthetic Rapture: A unique feature is the emphasis on aesthetic experience as a means to spiritual awakening.
19. Embrace of the World: Unlike some spiritual paths, Trika does not advocate renunciation but rather embraces worldly life as part of spiritual practice.
20. Empowerment and Liberation: Focuses on the empowerment of individuals through self-realization, aiming for liberation (moksha) from the cycle of birth and death.

These points provide a broad overview of Trika philosophy’s rich and multifaceted teachings.