The Kundalini Kashmir Shaivism Mantra belongs to the Trika tradition of Kashmir Shaivism, a non-dualistic school that teaches the identity of the individual self (atman) with the supreme consciousness (Shiva). The mantra is used for the awakening and ascent of Kundalini Shakti, the coiled serpent power, through the 36 tattvas (principles of reality) as described in the Tantraloka of Abhinavagupta. According to the Tantraloka (verse 3.1-2), Kundalini is the dynamic aspect of Shiva, and her ascent leads to the recognition (pratyabhijna) of one's true nature as Shiva. The mantra often incorporates the beej-akshara 'Hrim' or 'Krim', representing the fire of consciousness and the transformative power of Shakti. The phoneme 'Hrim' is associated with the heart and the element of fire, while 'Krim' relates to the goddess Kali and the power of time. The traditional purpose of this mantra is to awaken the dormant Kundalini at the muladhara chakra and guide it through the sushumna nadi, piercing the six chakras and culminating in the sahasrara, where union with Shiva occurs. This process is detailed in the Shiva Sutras and the Spanda Karikas, which emphasize the spontaneous vibration (spanda) of consciousness. The recommended chanting context includes early morning or midnight, with a count of 108 repetitions using a rudraksha mala, in a quiet space with a focus on the breath and the inner energy. Practitioners are advised to have a qualified guru, as improper practice can lead to imbalances. The mantra is chanted for liberation (moksha), self-realization, and the dissolution of duality. According to the Malinivijayottara Tantra, the mantra should be recited with visualization of the Kundalini as a luminous serpent ascending through the subtle body. Cautions include avoiding chanting during illness or without proper purification, as the energy can be intense. The mantra is central to the Kashmir Shaiva practices of the Trika system, which integrates the three goddesses Parā, Parāparā, and Aparā.
Kundalini in the Trika tradition, the ascent through the 36 tattvas, the realization of Shiva.