About Pratyabhijna

Pratyabhijna is a devotional tradition of Hinduism that originated in the 10th century in the Indian subcontinent.

The term "Pratyabhijna" is derived from the Sanskrit words "prati" meaning "toward" and "abhijna" meaning "recognition" or "realization".

Pratyabhijna is a mystical tradition that emphasizes the direct experience of the divine and the attainment of spiritual liberation through devotion and self-inquiry.

The tradition is based on the teachings of the 10th-century saint Abhinavagupta, who is considered one of the most important figures in Pratyabhijna.

Key Principles of Pratyabhijna

• The ultimate reality is known as Shiva or Shakti, the unmanifest and unchanging aspect of the universe.
• The individual self (jiva) is a spark of the divine, and the ultimate goal is to realize this divine spark within oneself.
• Self-inquiry (atma vichara) is the key means of realizing the divine within oneself.
• Devotion (bhakti) is the means of purifying the mind and heart, and preparing oneself for the realization of the divine.
• The ultimate goal is to attain the state of unity with the divine (samadhi), and to realize the true nature of the self.

Pratyabhijna in Practice

Pratyabhijna is typically practiced through the recitation of mantras, the performance of rituals, and the practice of meditation and self-inquiry.

Devotees of Pratyabhijna often form spiritual communities, known as "shakti peethas", where they can practice together and support one another on their spiritual journey.

Pratyabhijna is not a monolithic tradition, and there are many different schools and interpretations within the tradition.