T N Dhar (Kundan)
Name of Book : “Echoes of My Spanda”
Name of Author :Vijay Hashia
Vijay Hashia’s “Echoes of My Spanda” is more than a book. It is a meditative journey into the heart of Kashmir Shaivism, a philosophy that interweaves consciousness and energy into an inseparable cosmic rhythm. Through a compelling blend of mythology, spiritual inquiry, and philosophical reflection, the book illuminates the eternal dance of Shiva and Shakti, offering seekers a path to self-realization and divine communion.
The author through various chapters reveals that life is not a linear journey but a pulsating rhythm of struggles, triumphs, and reflections, aligning with the principle of Spanda, the vibratory essence of existence. Through personal experiences, the author illustrates how every aspect of life, from childhood to professional and marital responsibilities, unfolds in cycles of motion and stillness, action and repose. This oscillation mirrors the cosmic rhythm of creation, sustenance, and dissolution, reflecting the eternal dance of Shiva and Shakti in Trika Shaivism.
The narrative emphasizes that struggle is not a burden but a sacred engagement, an integral part of the divine play (lila). The author’s relentless pursuit of goals, despite limitations, reflects the universal pulse of effort and surrender. Even in adversity, there is an underlying beauty, as every hardship contributes to the grand aesthetic of existence. Relationships, too, embody Spanda, fluctuating between harmony and discord, reinforcing the idea that opposites coexist and complement each other.
Furthermore, the author highlights that victory and defeat are not separate realities but phases of the same vibration. Each success and failure contributes to personal evolution, reinforcing the idea that life’s meaning lies not in external achievements but in embracing the continuous ebb and flow of experience.
At its essence, the book explores the Spanda doctrine, the pulsation of existence that oscillates between movement and stillness, effort and surrender. This sacred interplay is reflected in the grand festivals of Mahashivaratri and the revered Amarnath pilgrimage, where the finite meets the infinite, symbolizing the transcendence of the material into the divine. The book’s exposition on ‘Aum’ reveals its vibrational potency, bridging the gap between spiritual wisdom and scientific understanding, offering deep insights into the sound that underlies creation itself.
The book delves into Karma Yoga, Swami Vivekananda’s works, Upanishadic teaching, redefining selfless action as the highest form of worship. The concept of ubiquitous energy is explored in light of both science and spirituality, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all existence. The celebration of Navaratri becomes homage to the divine feminine, capturing the power and grace of Shakti in its myriad forms.
A fascinating philosophical discourse unfolds as the book contrasts the tattvas (principles of reality) in Kashmir Shaivism with the Advaitic perspective, fathoming exploration of the non-dualistic vision of Paramshiva. The ethical reflections on vegetarianism elevate it beyond dietary choice, presenting it as a conscious alignment with nature’s rhythms, health, and spiritual purity.
One of the chapters unfolds Lalleshwari’s wisdom, whose verses embody the soul’s longing for unity with the Absolute. The book elevates solitude into a state of inner communion, where one can attune to the subtle vibrations of existence.
Ultimately, the author’s life serves as a living metaphor for Spanda, where every moment, whether filled with struggles, participates in the grand cosmic rhythm. By surrendering to this pulsation, one aligns with the divine essence of existence, realizing that true fulfillment lies not in resisting life’s oscillations but in flowing with them, merging the finite self with the infinite consciousness.
“Echoes of My Spanda” is not merely a book on philosophy but a spiritual guide that harmonizes material and transcendental life. It inspires readers to discover their own Spanda, their unique rhythm of being, and align it with the cosmic dance of creation, preservation, and dissolution. With its blend of intellectual depth and heartfelt devotion, this book is a must-read for seekers of wisdom, offering a luminous path toward balance, purpose, and divine realization.
Don’t miss the chance to embark on this transformative journey. Find your own Spanda.
The post A journey into heart of Kashmir Shaivism appeared first on Daily Excelsior.