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What ethical guidelines (dharma) are prescribed in the Kularnava Tantra?

Steeped in Shaiva non-dualism, the Kularnava Tantra weaves a tapestry of ethical moorings that keep practice from drifting into mere ritual. At its heart lies a call to “live the teaching,” where inner transformation goes hand in hand with moral integrity. These guidelines, often echoing classical Yama-Niyama lists, serve as the bedrock of the path:

  1. Ahimsa (Non-Violence)
    – Every creature merits respect. Intentional harm—physical or verbal—undermines both personal evolution and the collective harmony of the Kula, or spiritual community.

  2. Satya (Truthfulness)
    – Straightforward speech sharpens the mind and deepens trust between guru and disciple. Half-truths or evasions are likened to cobwebs that clutter one’s awareness.

  3. Asteya (Non-Stealing)
    – Beyond material possessions, this injunction covers time, energy and ideas. Borrowing without returning—or exploiting another’s insight—interrupts the flow of reciprocity.

  4. Brahmacharya (Right Use of Energy)
    – Often taken to mean celibacy, the text actually emphasizes mindful conduct. Energy channels are preserved, not squandering vital force on heedless indulgence.

  5. Saucha (Purity)
    – Cleanliness of body, mind and environment creates fertile ground for higher practices. In today’s world, it resonates with mindful consumption and digital detoxes.

  6. Dama & Uparati (Sense-Control & Withdrawal)
    – Training the senses to stay on task prevents distractions from derailing inner work. Monthly “technology fasts” seen in wellness circles mirror this ancient counsel.

  7. Titiksha (Forbearance)
    – Equanimity in the face of hardship builds resilience. Much like modern stress-management seminars, the Tantra invites steadfast poise under pressure.

  8. Guru-Bhakti (Devotion to One’s Teacher)
    – A living lineage safeguards teachings from distortion. Recent conversations around ethical conduct in yoga communities underline how vital this bond remains.

By and large, these dharmic pillars aren’t dusty relics but living guidelines. They dovetail with today’s Yoga Alliance ethics reforms and mirror #MeToo-inspired calls for transparency. Keeping this ancient “spirit code” in view ensures that every ritual, mantra or mudra carries the weight of wholehearted integrity.