Essence of Tantra – Lesson 04

This post is a summary of the class series “Essence of Tantra” conducted by Sri Shakthi Sumanan, offering profound insights into the foundational principles of Tantra. These notes serve as a reference for participants and are not self-explanatory; their true depth and meaning can only be understood through active participation in the class discussions and experiential learning sessions.

Introduction

The Param-Bindu is a central concept in Tantric philosophy and cosmology, representing the source of creation and the union of Śiva (the universal consciousness) and Śakti (the universal energy or dynamic power). In Tantra, the universe is described as emerging from the interplay of these two principles, Śiva and Śakti, symbolized by the Param-Bindu. This Bindu (or point) is both a representation of the ultimate unity of existence and the beginning of differentiation, leading to the manifestation of the universe. Surrounding the Bindu are layers of spiritual and cosmic elements, such as the crescent moon (Candra-maṇḍala), representing higher spiritual states, and the dynamic interplay of energies within creation. This concept is deeply connected to sound (Śabda) and vibration (Nāda), which are considered the building blocks of all existence. Through understanding Param-Bindu, one can grasp the Tantric view of creation, dissolution, and the path to spiritual realization.

Simplified Explanation of the Concept

1. The Param-Bindu as the Source of Creation:
   • The Param-Bindu is a tiny dot or point that symbolizes the origin of the universe. It represents Śiva and Śakti, the two fundamental cosmic principles—consciousness and energy—together in unity.
   • Inside the Bindu is the Brahma-pada, the “seat of Brahman,” where the primal union of Śiva (pure consciousness) and Śakti (creative energy) occurs.
   • The circle around the Bindu represents Māyā, the illusion or veil that hides the true nature of reality.
2. The Cosmic Structure Around the Bindu:
   • Above the Sun Circle (Sūrya-maṇḍala) and Moon Circle (Candra-maṇḍala) lies the Bindu, surrounded by other subtle elements like:
     • Nirvāṇa-kalā (the 17th crescent) and Amā-kalā (the 16th phase of the Moon), which represent highly spiritual stages of realization.
     • These elements are placed in a triangle symbolizing sound and creation, known as the “A, Ka, Tha” triangle.
3. The Triangle and the Letters:
   • The triangle is a sacred geometrical shape that contains:
     • Forty-eight letters of the Sanskrit alphabet, divided into groups (vowels, consonants, and additional letters).
   • The triangle represents mātṛkā, or the divine power of the letters, which form the basis of all existence, as every sound or vibration creates reality.
4. The Transformation of Energy:
   • The Param-Bindu undergoes a process of unfolding, where Śiva and Śakti separate to create the universe.
   • This division creates Nāda (primordial sound), Bīja (seed of creation), and Bindu (the point of concentrated energy).
   • Nāda exists in three states:
     • Tamas (darkness): Nāda is unmanifest and dormant.
     • Rajas (activity): Nāda becomes more organized and active.
     • Sattva (purity): Nāda transforms into Bindu, ready to create.
5. Sun, Moon, and Fire:
   • These elements are symbolized by:
     • Fire (Jñāna, or knowledge): Burns away ignorance and transforms reality.
     • Moon (Icchā, or will): Represents the desire and intention behind creation.
     • Sun (Kriyā, or action): Represents the energy needed for manifestation.
6. The Role of Creation and Liberation:
   • Creation happens when the Bindu bursts, and Śiva and Śakti separate, giving rise to the world.
   • Liberation occurs when one moves beyond Māyā and understands the unity of Śiva and Śakti, symbolized by the Param-Bindu.

In simpler terms, the Param-Bindu is like a cosmic seed, containing everything needed to create the universe. It symbolizes ultimate unity, from which all diversity arises. The journey of spiritual realization in Tantra is about returning to this unity, understanding the divine interplay of energy and consciousness that sustains all existence.