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How does Non-Dual Shaivism explain the concept of duality?
Non-Dual Shaivism, also known as Kashmir Shaivism, is a philosophical school within Hinduism that emphasizes the concept of consciousness as the ultimate reality. According to this school of thought, all of existence is a manifestation of one ultimate reality, which is pure consciousness. This means that everything in the universe, including ourselves, is ultimately made up of this same consciousness.
In Non-Dual Shaivism, the concept of duality is seen as an illusion or a false perception. This is because duality implies the existence of two separate entities, which goes against the idea of one ultimate reality. Therefore, Non-Dual Shaivism teaches that all apparent dualities, such as good and evil, pleasure and pain, and self and other, are ultimately just different expressions of the same underlying consciousness.
One way that Non-Dual Shaivism explains the concept of duality is through the concept of Shiva and Shakti. Shiva represents pure consciousness, while Shakti represents the dynamic energy or power of consciousness. These two aspects are not separate from each other, but rather they are inseparable and complementary. Shiva without Shakti would be inactive, and Shakti without Shiva would have no direction. Therefore, the apparent duality between Shiva and Shakti is ultimately just an expression of the one ultimate reality of consciousness.
Another way that Non-Dual Shaivism explains duality is through the concept of maya. Maya is the power of consciousness to create the appearance of duality in the world. It is often described as a veil that covers the true nature of reality, causing us to perceive things as separate and distinct from each other. This illusion of duality is what causes suffering and prevents us from realizing our true nature as pure consciousness.
Non-Dual Shaivism also teaches that the ultimate goal of spiritual practice is to transcend duality and realize the oneness of consciousness. This is achieved through practices such as meditation, self-inquiry, and devotion to the divine. By quieting the mind and recognizing the illusory nature of duality, one can come to experience the underlying unity of consciousness.
In conclusion, Non-Dual Shaivism sees duality as an illusion that arises from our limited perception of the ultimate reality of pure consciousness. By understanding the inseparable and complementary nature of Shiva and Shakti, and by transcending the illusion of maya, one can come to experience the oneness of consciousness and ultimately achieve liberation.