The Tantrasara Mantra refers to the core mantras and teachings compiled in the Tantrasara, a seminal work by the great Kashmir Shaiva philosopher and mystic Abhinavagupta (c. 950–1020 CE). The Tantrasara is an abridged version of his larger Tantraloka, distilling the essence of the Trika system of Kashmir Shaivism. According to the Tantrasara itself, these mantras are revealed for the upliftment of qualified aspirants seeking direct realization of the supreme consciousness (Paramashiva).
The primary deity associated is Shiva in his aspect of the absolute, inseparable from Shakti as the dynamic energy of consciousness. The mantras often incorporate the beej-akshara 'Om' (ॐ) as the primordial sound representing the unmanifest, along with other seed syllables like 'Hrim' (ह्रीं) and 'Sauh' (सौः) which, as per the Mantra-Yoga-Samhita, activate the heart center and the subtle energies. The phonetics of these syllables are designed to resonate with the chakras, facilitating the ascent of kundalini. The traditional purpose of chanting the Tantrasara Mantra is to attain spiritual wisdom (jnana), liberation (moksha), and the grace of the Kashmir Shaiva lineage.
It is also chanted for the dissolution of duality and the realization of one's identity with Shiva. Recommended chanting context includes early morning or during meditation, with a count of 108 repetitions using a rudraksha mala. The ritual setting should be a clean, quiet space, with offerings of flowers and incense to a representation of Shiva or Abhinavagupta. Cautions: These mantras are considered powerful and should ideally be received from a qualified guru, as improper pronunciation or intention may lead to spiritual imbalance.
The Devi Mahatmya and the Shaktisangama Tantra also echo the importance of proper initiation for tantric mantras. The Tantrasara Mantra is not merely a set of sounds but a living transmission of the essence of Tantra, embodying the non-dual philosophy of Kashmir Shaivism.
The essence of Tantra, invoking the supreme consciousness and its dynamic energy.
The mantra consists of three seed syllables: Oṁ (the primordial sound), hrīṃ (heart seed, associated with the heart chakra and the energy of consciousness), and sauḥ (supreme seed, representing the dynamic aspect of consciousness). Together, they encapsulate the non-dual essence of Kashmir Shaivism.