Sanskrit & Trika Shaivism (English-Home)

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 Abhinavagupta's Paramārthasāra (Paramarthasara) - Non-dual Shaivism of Kashmir

Essence of the Highest Reality (the Supreme Goal)


 Introduction

Hi, Gabriel Pradīpaka --wrongly-written Pradipaka-- again. Originally, this scripture was composed by Ādiśeṣa, but the greatest Trika Master, Abhinavagupta, refashioned it in order to transform it into a Trika scripture... and he succeeded! That is why I wrote the title as "Abhinavagupta's Paramārthasāra --wrongly-written Paramarthasara--", to indicate that it is not the one of Ādiśeṣa as originally formulated. It consists of 105 stanzas dealing with Trika philosophy in general. In this sense, it is like a practical handbook for spiritual aspirants desirous to attain Final Liberation, much like a kind of Pratyabhijñāhṛdayam --wrongly-written Pratyabhijnahrdayam-- but more extensive and complete. The work would not be complete without including the commentary of Yogarāja --wrongly-written Yogaraja--. Who is Yogarāja? He is the main disciple of Kṣemarāja --wrongly-written Kshemaraja or Ksemaraja--, and Kṣemarāja is the main disciple of Abhinavagupta. In fact, Yogarāja also studied under the guidance of Abhinavagupta. The inclusion of his commentary will transform the Abhinavagupta's work into an extremely complete scripture teaching the main Trika's tenets.

Yes, I will add a lot of notes of explanation with more information for you to understand all of the topics so easily as possible. Aspirants who are beginners in reading Abhinavagupta's studies should start with his Paramārthasāra. In this scripture, the great Master goes right to the point without beating about the bush. And along with the commentary by Yogarāja, the scripture becomes a little gem summarizing Trika knowledge brilliantly.

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 Further Information

Gabriel Pradīpaka

This document was conceived by Gabriel Pradīpaka, one of the two founders of this site, and spiritual guru conversant with Sanskrit language and Trika philosophy.

For further information about Sanskrit, Yoga and Indian Philosophy; or if you simply want to comment, ask a question or correct a mistake, feel free to contact us: This is our e-mail address.



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