What is Mahasamadhi in Kashmir Shaivism?

In Kashmir Shaivism, Mahasamadhi refers to the ultimate state of spiritual liberation and union with the divine. It is considered the highest form of attainment in this tradition.

The term "Mahasamadhi" is derived from two Sanskrit words: "Maha," meaning great, and "Samadhi," referring to a deep state of meditation or absorption. It is a profound state of consciousness where the individual soul merges with the universal consciousness, realizing its inherent divine nature.

In Kashmir Shaivism, Mahasamadhi is not seen as the end of life, but rather as a state of transcendence while still in the physical body. It is considered an enlightened departure from the mortal realm, where the individual consciously chooses to leave the body behind and merge with the absolute reality, often referred to as Shiva or Shakti.

Practitioners of Kashmir Shaivism aspire to attain Mahasamadhi through rigorous spiritual practices such as meditation, self-inquiry, mantra recitation, and the awakening of Kundalini energy. The goal is to transcend the limitations of the individual self and merge with the supreme consciousness, realizing the oneness of all existence.

Mahasamadhi is seen as a state of ultimate freedom, liberation from the cycle of birth and death, and the experience of eternal bliss and unity with the divine. It is considered the culmination of the spiritual journey in Kashmir Shaivism, representing the union of the individual soul with the supreme reality.