The Shiva Samhita is a foundational text of Hatha Yoga and Tantra, traditionally attributed to Lord Shiva himself. It is composed in Sanskrit and consists of five chapters covering topics such as the existence of the self, the microcosm and macrocosm, the subtle body (with its chakras, nadis, and pranas), the practice of yoga, and the means to liberation. The mantras contained within the Shiva Samhita are not single bija or deity mantras but rather verses (shlokas) that are chanted for contemplation and as part of yogic practice. According to the Shiva Samhita (Chapter 1, verse 1), the text begins with the declaration that the knowledge of yoga is the highest science, leading to the realization of the ultimate truth. The text emphasizes the importance of the guru and the practice of pranayama, asanas, and meditation. The mantras are used to focus the mind and awaken the dormant spiritual energy (kundalini). The Shiva Samhita (Chapter 5, verse 1) states that by practicing the yoga described, one attains liberation (moksha) while living. The phonetics of the verses are designed to resonate with the subtle energies of the body, aligning with the chakras. The traditional purpose of chanting these mantras is to purify the mind, balance the pranas, and ultimately achieve self-realization. Recommended chanting context includes early morning or during yoga practice, with a count of 108 repetitions or as part of a daily sadhana. There are no specific cautions, but the text advises that yoga should be practiced under the guidance of a qualified guru. The Shiva Samhita is revered in both pan-Indian and global yoga communities, and its mantras are chanted during Maha Shivaratri and other yoga-related festivals.
Lord Shiva teaching yoga, the subtle body, the path to liberation.