Shakt Sampraday

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Shakt Sampraday" by Narmada Devshankar Mehta, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Shakt Sampraday (Sakta Sampradaya) Author: Narmada Devshankar Mehta, B.A. (Dewan Saheb of Khambhat) Publisher: Shree Farbas Gujarati Sabha, Mumbai Publication Year: Samvat 1988 (1932 CE) Edition: First Circulation: 750 copies

Overall Subject: The book explores the Shakta Sampradaya (tradition of worship of the Divine Mother, Shakti) with a focus on its principles, its propagation in Gujarat, and its impact on Gujarati literature. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of this tradition, clarifying its philosophical underpinnings and addressing misconceptions.

Key Themes and Content:

1. Introduction and Purpose:

   • The author, Narmada Devshankar Mehta, was invited by the Farbas Gujarati Sabha to write on this topic as part of a series on religious traditions in Gujarat.
   • The author's motivation stems from his personal study of various philosophies and spiritual traditions, including Buddhism and Tantra Shastra. He observed a lack of comprehensive understanding of these traditions, leading to mutual criticism between different schools of thought (e.g., Vedavadis vs. Tantrikas).
   • The primary goal is to explain the depth and breadth of the Shakta tradition, bridge the gap in understanding between Vedic and Tantric viewpoints, and counter the negative perceptions that sometimes arise due to dogma.

2. Shaktism in Vedic Literature:

   • The text begins by establishing the ancient roots of Shaktism within the Vedic tradition itself, referencing hymns from the Mantra Samhitas (Rigveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda, Atharvaveda).
   • It highlights the presence of Shaktism in Brahmanas and Aranyakas, identifying goddesses like Gayatri, Savitri, and Saraswati as manifestations of Brahmanic energy.
   • The author explains the concept of "Shakti" derived from the root "Shak" (to be able), signifying power or capability. This power is categorized into three forms: Adhibhuta (physical), Adhideva (divine/celestial), and Adhyatma (spiritual).
   • The concept of Shakti is linked to the fundamental nature of Brahman, seen as its inherent power, intelligence, strength, and action.

3. Philosophical Principles (Shakta Siddhanta):

   • The text delves into the philosophical core of Shaktism, comparing and contrasting it with Vedanta. While both are considered Advaitic (non-dual), Shaktism is based on the concept of Shakti as the creative power, whereas traditional Vedanta emphasizes Maya.
   • Shaktism posits that the universe is a manifestation or "Vilas" of Shakti, making the experienced world ultimately real and not illusory in the way some interpretations of Maya suggest.
   • The author discusses the different forms and manifestations of Shakti, her relationship with Brahman (Shiva), and the literature associated with her worship.
   • It touches upon the idea of Brahman having both Nirguna (attributeless) and Saguna (attributive) aspects, with Shakti being the bridge that makes the attributeless comprehensible.

4. Practices and Rituals (Shakta Anuchar, Mantra, Yantra):

   • The book details the practices of Shakta followers, including the classification of adhikārins (eligible practitioners) based on their spiritual evolution (Pashu, Vira, Divya).
   • It explains the significance of Pancha-Makar (Mada, Mansa, Matsya, Mudra, Maithuna) within the Tantric framework, contextualizing them as spiritual tools rather than mere material indulgences, and discussing their proper usage according to adhikāra.
   • The text covers the importance of Vidya (knowledge and mantras) and Yantra (sacred diagrams like Sri Yantra) in Shakta worship, explaining their symbolism and purpose.
   • Various forms of worship (Puja) are discussed, including Antaryaga (internal worship) and Bahiryaga (external worship), their five angas (components), and specific rituals like Kumari Puja (worship of young girls) and other forms of feminine reverence.

5. Shaktism in Gujarat:

   • A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the historical presence and propagation of Shaktism in Gujarat.
   • It traces the influence back to the time of Lord Krishna in Saurashtra and the rise of Shav and Shakta traditions during the Kshatrapas and subsequent kingdoms.
   • The text mentions specific Shakta pithas (sacred centers) in Gujarat like Ambaji, Pavagadh (Kalika), Bahucharaji, and others, discussing their historical context and local traditions.
   • It highlights the impact of Shaktism on Gujarati literature, mentioning various devotional poets and their works dedicated to the Divine Mother.

6. Shaktism and Other Traditions:

   • The book examines the interaction and influence of Shaktism on Buddhism and Jainism. It notes how Shakti worship permeated into Mahayana Buddhism and discusses Tantric practices within these traditions.
   • It also compares Shaktism with Shaivism and Vedanta, emphasizing the shared Advaitic philosophical ground while detailing the unique emphasis on Shakti in the former.

7. Literature of Shaktism:

   • The book provides a survey of Shakta literature, including Vedic texts (Upanishads), Tantras, Agamas, Puranas, and philosophical commentaries.
   • It specifically mentions the importance of Shakta Upanishads and their influence.
   • The author discusses the contribution of Gujarati poets like Nath Bhavanan, Vallabh Dholla, and Meethu Maharaj to Shakta devotional literature, particularly their "Garbā" (devotional songs).
   • The work of Kavi Bal (Balashankar) is highlighted for his nuanced portrayal of Shaktism in his poetry, often blending devotional and aesthetic elements.

8. Sri Chakra:

   • Special attention is given to the Sri Chakra, described as the ultimate symbol of the Divine Mother's worship. The text includes explanations and diagrams of the Sri Chakra, its different layers (avaranas), and the deities residing within them.
   • It differentiates between the Hādi and Kādi traditions within Sri Vidya worship.

9. Author's Scholarly Approach:

   • Mehta demonstrates a thorough and analytical approach, drawing upon extensive textual references from Vedic scriptures, Upanishads, Tantras, Puranas, and the works of various commentators and philosophers.
   • He attempts to synthesize different interpretations and present a balanced view of the Shakta tradition.

In essence, "Shakt Sampraday" is a scholarly exploration that seeks to:

• Validate Shaktism: By tracing its roots within Vedic scriptures and establishing its philosophical coherence with Advaita Vedanta.
• Demystify Practices: By explaining the spiritual significance of Tantric rituals and concepts like Pancha-Makar and the various forms of Shakti worship.
• Document Gujarati Influence: By highlighting the presence and literary contributions of Shakta traditions in Gujarat.
• Promote Understanding: By aiming to foster a more informed and respectful perspective on the Shakta Sampradaya, recognizing its integral role within the broader spectrum of Indian spiritual traditions.