In the intricate and profound world of Tantric philosophy, there exists a concept that stands out for its elegance and depth: Samarasya. This term, often overlooked in favor of more sensational aspects of Tantra, holds the key to understanding a unique perspective on spiritual integration and cosmic harmony.
To grasp Samarasya, we must first delve into its roots within the non-dualistic Saivism of Kashmir. Here, Samarasya is not just a concept, but a lived experience – a state where the distinctions between Siva and Sakti, the fundamental principles of the universe, dissolve into a unified whole. This is not merely a balance between opposites, but a complete fusion where the essence of the Divine is perceived as all-pervading. In this state, the Self and the universe merge into the One, creating a perfect harmony.
The great exponent of non-dualistic Saivism, Abhinavagupta, described this experience as akin to the highest aesthetic enjoyment, or rasa. According to him, this experience is a resting in one’s essential nature, which is pervaded by bliss and light, similar to the tasting of the supreme Brahman. This aesthetic and sensual experience is central to Tantric spirituality, where it can lead one to the highest spiritual state.
Samarasya is about achieving a state of profound composure, where every external action, whether pleasurable or painful, generates the same bliss within. This is the savor of samabhāva, a state of mental, emotional, and spiritual equanimity. It is a state where one maintains level-headedness under all circumstances, because it is through this equipoise that the path to the serene ecstasy of Samarasya is achieved.
In practical terms, Samarasya involves a transformation that is rarely sudden but rather a result of punctuated evolution. It requires the reiteration of specific practices day in and day out, until the internalized patterns that maintain our skewed perceptions are dismantled. This process allows a person to become truly independent, or svatantra, living immersed in Samarasya as a well-integrated individual, freed from one-sidedness and personal idiosyncrasies.
The concept of Samarasya also extends beyond individual spiritual practices to interreligious dialogue. It represents a state where different religious streams can merge into each other, not by ignoring their fundamental distinctions but by attaining a higher state of mind. This is where one moves in the open, unlimited sky, achieving a whole, undivided, integral state – the identity with the Whole, the Divine.
In the context of Kashmirian Saivism, Samarasya denotes the absolute freedom from all limits of names and forms, a complete fusion of the manifoldness of reality with its fundamental unity. This state is not just a theoretical construct but a lived experience that transcends the ordinary boundaries of existence.
To apply Samarasya in daily life, one must understand that it is not about avoiding the complexities of life but about integrating them seamlessly. It is about recognizing that life is not a battle of opposites but an opportunity for their harmonious integration. By embracing this perspective, one can navigate life’s challenges with grace and equanimity.
Samarasya invites us to explore the delicate balance between seemingly contradictory aspects of existence. It shows us that the interplay of energies, whether within ourselves or in the world around us, is not a conflict but a harmonious dance. This understanding deepens our appreciation for the nature of consciousness and offers practical guidance for living a more harmonious life.
In essence, Samarasya is a call to experience life as a cosmic symphony, where every note, whether discordant or harmonious, contributes to the overall melody. It is an invitation to attune ourselves to this symphony, to feel the rhythm of the universe within and around us. By doing so, we not only gain fresh insights into Tantric wisdom but also find a more profound way of living – a way that is rooted in the harmony and unity of all existence.
As we embark on this journey of exploring Samarasya, we are reminded that spiritual growth is not about escaping the world but about integrating it into our being. It is about finding the divine in the mundane and the mundane in the divine. This integration is what Samarasya offers – a path to inner peace, a way to live in harmony with the cosmos, and a profound understanding of the interconnectedness of all things.
In the end, Samarasya is more than just a concept; it is a way of life. It is a reminder that the ultimate reality is not something distant but something that pervades every moment of our existence. By embracing Samarasya, we can transform our lives into a seamless integration of the spiritual and the mundane, creating a world where every action, every thought, and every breath is a celebration of cosmic harmony.
