Shaiva Upanishads (A Critical Study)
by Arpita Chakraborty | 2013 | 33,902 words
This page relates ‘Bhasmadharana to attain Knowledge’ of the study on the Shaiva Upanishads in English, comparing them with other texts dealing with the Shiva cult (besides the Agamas and Puranas). The Upaniṣads are ancient philosophical and theological treatises. Out of the 108 Upanishads mentioned in the Muktikopanishad, 15 are classified as Saiva-Upanisads.
11. Bhasmadhāraṇa to attain Knowledge
For winning over death, the bath of nectar is recommended. Where is the question of death for one who has been touched by nectar of Śiva and Śakti? The one who knows this holy secret method, would purify moon and fire and will not take birth again. The one whose body is burnt by the fire of Śiva and made wet by the nectar of moon and entering the path of yoga would become eligible for deathless state.[1]
The Bhasmajābāla Upaniṣad up says the worship of Śiva in Kāśi the bestows salvation.
[...] Bhasmajābāla Upaniṣad up.II.16
Witnessing the esoteric and holy form of Śiva (as ākāśa tattva), taking birth in Tiruvārūr, leaving one's life in Kāśi and the mere remembrance of lord Aruṇāchala (in Thiruvaṇnāmalai) bestows mukti.[2]
Footnotes and references:
[1]:
Ibid II. 11-16.
[2]:
Bhasmajābāla Upaniṣad II.16. [...]