THE ADVAITA VEDANTA OF SIVA SAMHITA

Siva Samhita is now a well-known source text for Hatha Yoga tradition. It is however, largely unknown because of its clear explanation of the topic of atmajnana (or Self-Knowledge) consistent with the traditions of the Upanisads-s and Advaita Vedanta. Anyone who reads the Siva Samhita’s first chapter will see the significant departure from Hatha Yoga tradition. Although the Siva Samhita is rooted in Advaita Vedanta tradition, modern scholars and traditional Advaita Vedanta teachers have yet to recognize its authenticity as a Prakarana Grantha. Only the first chapter of the five chapters is about Vedanta. It is located within Sanatana Dharma’s larger context, which explains the two lifestyles of Pravrti and Nivrti.