First, some context for this talk…
What are we doing? (/trying to realize through tantric practice?)
Something like this (Definition from the Tantra Illuminated website):
Truth: all that exists, through all time & space, is one all-encompassing and unbroken field of awareness.
And now, more context…
We should know where the Sri Yantra is from and it might be time for brief overview of what it means. Please note, that proper letters are not necessarily used in the writing of Sanskrit words.
The Sri Yantra (aka Sri Cakra -spelling intentional) is from the Sri Vidya tradition. This tradition, from what I know, developed more in the South of what we call modern day “India” and still survives brightly there (unlike some of the other tantric traditions). For a full expose of Indian Tantra history, a thick (but excellent) book is Chris Wallace’s “Tantra Illuminated”. In this book the different lineages are described and it includes a breakdown of the spectrum of tantra going from Supreme as Femme (Goddess/ Devi) leaning non-dual traditions to more Patriarchal/ Siva (as Deva) only/ and dual. The Sri Vidya tradition is, perhaps dare I say, supremely Goddess reverent. The Sri Yantra is FROM this tradition. It is not part of the other lineages.
From Chat GPT (because why not? but also edited by moi)
The Sri Yantra (or Sri Chakra) is a sacred geometric diagram. It represents the union of the divine masculine and feminine energies, from the microcosm to the macrocosm. The structure consists of interlocking triangles, circles, and lotus petals arranged symmetrically around a central point (Bindu). Each aspect in the Sri Yantra holds deep spiritual significance.
Breakdown of the Triangles in the Sri Yantra
The Sri Yantra has nine interlocking triangles, divided as follows:
1. Four Upward-Facing Triangles
• Represent the masculine principle, often associated with Shiva.
• Symbolize fire, spiritual energy, and the transcendental.
• They are related to the expansive energy of the cosmos.
2. Five Downward-Facing Triangles
• Represent the feminine principle, often associated with Shakti.
• Symbolize water, creativity, and the material world.
• They represent the nurturing, grounding energy of creation.
These nine triangles are interwoven to form 43 smaller triangles, each with its own symbolic significance. Together, they represent the entire cosmos and “the body of the divine”.
Levels of the Sri Yantra
The Sri Yantra is often described as consisting of nine concentric layers, starting from the outermost level and culminating at the center -Bindu (Center Point):
• Represents the ultimate unity, consciousness, and source of all creation.
Key Symbolism of the Triangles
• The interlocking triangles represent the balance of opposites: male and female, spiritual and material, expansion and contraction.
• They also symbolize the ascent and descent of spiritual energy, with upward triangles indicating spiritual ascension and downward triangles representing divine grace descending into the material world.
The Sri Yantra is a visual tool for meditation and achieving harmony with the cosmos. When contemplated, it serves as a gateway to understanding the interconnectedness of all aspects of existence.
Share this post