Prathamacakra, Prathama-cakra: 1 definition

Introduction:

Prathamacakra means something in Hinduism, Sanskrit. If you want to know the exact meaning, history, etymology or English translation of this term then check out the descriptions on this page. Add your comment or reference to a book if you want to contribute to this summary article.

Alternative spellings of this word include Prathamachakra.

In Hinduism

Shaktism (Shakta philosophy)

[«previous next»] — Prathamacakra in Shaktism glossary
Source: Google Books: Manthanabhairavatantram

Prathamacakra (प्रथमचक्र) refers to the “first wheel”, symbolizing the Ādhāra-cakra, which represents one of the “sixteen stations of the ascent of kuṇḍalinī” according to the Manthānabhairavatantra, a vast sprawling work that belongs to a corpus of Tantric texts concerned with the worship of the goddess Kubjikā.—Accordingly, “[...] (1) The Foundation (ādhāra) (at the base of the spine) is the first Wheel [i.e., prathamacakraprathamaṃ cakraṃ] (brilliant and coloured) like red lac. There, in the middle, is the one called Haṃsa, (shining white) like a multitude of moons. [...] (Perfect) contemplation (samādhi) is with (these) sixteen aspects and is (attained) within the form of the sixfold deposition (ṣoḍhānyāsa). He who knows this is (a veritable) Lord of Yogis, the others (who do not) are (just) quoting from books. Once attained the plane that is Void and Non-void, the yogi is freed from bondage”.

Shaktism book cover
context information

Shakta (शाक्त, śākta) or Shaktism (śāktism) represents a tradition of Hinduism where the Goddess (Devi) is revered and worshipped. Shakta literature includes a range of scriptures, including various Agamas and Tantras, although its roots may be traced back to the Vedas.

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