Introduction
Kundalini Shakti is one of the most profound concepts in Hindu spirituality, often referred to as the “serpent power.” It represents the primordial cosmic energy that resides dormant at the base of the spine, coiled like a serpent. When awakened, this energy travels upward through the central channel of the body, known as the sushumna nadi, and activates each chakra or energy centre along its path. This process of awakening and rising is not merely a physical phenomenon but a profound spiritual journey that leads to the realization of one’s true identity with the Supreme Brahman.
Kundalini in the Hindu Tradition
In Hinduism, Kundalini is personified as the Divine Mother, often referred to as Shakti Ma, Kali Ma, or other goddesses. She embodies the feminine power at the base of the spine, which, upon awakening, ascends to unite with her consort, Lord Shiva, in the seventh chakra, Sahasrara. This union is symbolic of the merging of the feminine and masculine energies, representing the union of opposites—a concept that is central to many spiritual traditions worldwide.
Three Manifestations of Kundalini
Kundalini is described in three different manifestations in ancient scriptures:
- Para-Kundalini: The unmanifest cosmic energy.
- Prana-Kundalini: The vital energy that sustains the created universe.
- Shakti-Kundalini: The consciousness that bridges the cosmic and vital energies, serving as the link to higher awareness and the eternal source of bliss.
The Descent and Ascent of Shakti-Kundalini
Shakti-Kundalini plays a dual role in the spiritual journey. When she descends from the Sahasrara chakra to the lower chakras, she manifests as Jagan Mohini, the enchantress who creates Maya (illusion), binding the soul to the material world. This descent marks the soul’s entanglement in ignorance, delusion, and the limitations of the material existence.
Conversely, as Kundalini ascends through the chakras, she becomes subtler and more powerful, reabsorbing the creative principles that originally descended. This upward journey is known as laya (absorption), during which Kundalini dissolves the veils of illusion, leading to spiritual awakening, freedom, and wisdom. As she ascends, the mental limitations that obscure true consciousness are gradually removed, allowing the mind to become a vehicle for bliss and enlightenment.
At the crown chakra, Sahasrara, Kundalini merges with Shiva, representing the ultimate realization of oneness with the divine. In this state, Kundalini, in her formless aspect, is pure consciousness. In her creative form, she is Shakti, the power behind all manifestation.
Kundalini in Sacred Texts
The concept of Kundalini has been revered in various sacred texts throughout history:
- Adi Shankaracharya: In the Saundarya Lahari, he describes Kundalini as a serpent coiled at the base of the spine, which awakens and ascends through the chakras, leading to the ultimate union with Shiva in the Sahasrara.
- Gyaneshwara: In the Gyaneshwari, Kundalini is described as a great energy that purifies the body, bringing about physical and spiritual transformation.
- Guru Nanak Dev: He spoke of the six chakras in the human body and the awakening of Surati (Kundalini) to transcend the limitations of the material world and achieve union with the divine.
- Prophet Mohammed: In the context of resurrection, he spoke of the hands bearing witness, a phenomenon experienced during Kundalini awakening, where the hands emit cool vibrations as the chakras are activated.
Kundalini in Other Cultures and Religions
Kundalini is not exclusive to Hinduism. Its symbolism and effects have been recognized in various cultures and religions:
- Christianity: The Holy Spirit, described as tongues of flames or the breath of life, is often seen as a parallel to Kundalini, representing the divine energy that awakens and transforms the soul.
- Taoism: The primordial power is described as the “spirit of the valley,” an eternal force that flows through the central channel, akin to the sushumna nadi in Hinduism.
- Buddhism: The “middle path” taught by Buddha is seen as the pathway through which Kundalini ascends, leading to nirvana and ultimate liberation.
Medical Science and Kundalini
Modern science has begun to explore the concept of Kundalini, particularly in the field of neurophysiology. It has been observed that the development of the nervous system in a human embryo mirrors the pathways of Kundalini energy. This energy, which is believed to pre-exist the physical development of the nervous tissue, guides the formation of the brain and spinal cord, suggesting a deep connection between Kundalini and the evolution of human consciousness.
Conclusion
Kundalini Shakti is a powerful and transformative force within every individual. Its awakening is considered the ultimate goal of spiritual practice, leading to enlightenment and the realization of one’s divine nature. As Kundalini rises through the chakras, it not only purifies and transforms the physical body but also dissolves the illusions of the material world, revealing the true essence of the soul. This journey of awakening is a universal concept, recognized and revered across cultures and religions, each offering its unique perspective on this profound spiritual phenomenon.
Read Blog 39 : The Convergence of Ancient Wisdom and Modern Science: Understanding the Ethics and Spirituality of Embryology and Kundalini Awakening
