Significance of Thirty-six tattvas
The Thirty-six tattvas refers to a classification of substances and principles within the philosophical systems of Shaktism and Shaivism, representing the complexity of existence and spirituality. This concept highlights a shared philosophical framework that both traditions accept, encompassing the fundamental principles governing reality. In Shaivism, Parama Siva is identified as the 37th tattva, symbolizing undifferentiated transcendent consciousness. Together, these tattvas serve to explain the nature of the self and its spiritual journey, illustrating a comprehensive understanding of existence.
Synonyms: Thirty-six categories
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Thirty-six tattvas'
The Thirty-six tattvas in Hinduism represent a classification of principles and elements, integral to Shaiva Siddhanta philosophy, explaining the self's nature, bondage, and the framework of reality, with Parama Siva as the ultimate transcendent principle.
From: Sivaprakasam (Study in Bondage and Liberation)
(1) Philosophical principles in Shaiva thought that do not understand or know themselves independently.[1] (2) The fundamental principles or evolutes in Shaiva philosophy that help elucidate material existence.[2] (3) The various elements or principles that the self may remain attached to, thereby influencing its bondage.[3] (4) A framework of principles articulated in Vedas and Shivagamas, recognized by inner groups in Shaiva Siddhanta.[4] (5) A set of principles or elements that explain the nature and characteristics (gunas) of the self within the context of its spiritual journey.[5]
From: Gitartha Samgraha (critical Study)
(1) Categories or principles in Kashmir Shaivism that describe the different aspects of reality and creation.[6] (2) Concepts within Kashmir Shaivism that explain the various elements or principles forming the universe, all fundamentally connected to divine power (Shakti).[7] (3) A classification within Kashmir Shaivism that encompasses various elements of existence but are not discussed serially in the Gitarthasangraha.[8] (4) Fundamental categories in Kashmir Shaivism that encompass the nature of reality, which are not discussed serially in the Gitarthasangraha.[9]
From: Lakulisha-Pashupata (Philosophy and Practice)
(1) The concept within Saivism representing 36 elements, with Parama Siva described as the 37th tattva, symbolizing the ultimate principle of undifferentiated transcendent consciousness.[10]
From: Shaiva Upanishads (A Critical Study)
(1) The categorization of existence into thirty-six principles in the context of Shaiva philosophy.[11]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) The philosophical principles accepted by both Shaiva and Shakta schools representative of different aspects of reality.[12] (2) A shared philosophical basis among Shaivas and Shakta adherents, referring to the basic principles and elements of the universe.[13]
From: Varahi Tantra (English Study)
(1) Different elements or principles recognized in the philosophical framework that the Supreme Truth transcends.[14]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A classification of substances or principles in the philosophical system, symbolizing the complexity of existence and spirituality.[15]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) An alternative count of principles recognized by some, contributing to the philosophical discourse on existence.[16]