Items related to Vac: The Concept of the Word in Selected Hindu Tantras...
Vac: The Concept of the Word in Selected Hindu Tantras (Suny Series in the Shaiva Traditions of Kashmir) - Softcover
This book is about the power of the Word conceived as the main and most effective aspect of divine energy. It is the only systematic study in English of notions concerning the Word (Vac) as these are expounded in the shaiva tantras of Kashmir and in related texts.
Padoux first describes the Vedic origins of these notions, then their development in texts of different tantric traditions. He shows how different levels of the Word abide in humans, how these levels are linked to the kun, and how they develop into articulate speech and discursive thought. He also describes how the universe is created out of the letters of the alphabet.
The last two chapters explain the powers of mantras as sacred ritual utterances. These powers are described as magical as well as religious, because they can achieve supernatural results as well as lead to salvation. Their uses are linked to yogic mental and bodily practices.
Padoux first describes the Vedic origins of these notions, then their development in texts of different tantric traditions. He shows how different levels of the Word abide in humans, how these levels are linked to the kun, and how they develop into articulate speech and discursive thought. He also describes how the universe is created out of the letters of the alphabet.
The last two chapters explain the powers of mantras as sacred ritual utterances. These powers are described as magical as well as religious, because they can achieve supernatural results as well as lead to salvation. Their uses are linked to yogic mental and bodily practices.
"synopsis" may belong to another edition of this title.
About the Author:
Language Notes:
Andre Padoux is Director of the research unit on Hinduism at the Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique in Paris, and is a member of the French National Council for Scientific Research.
Text: English (translation)
Original Language: French
Original Language: French
"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.
- PublisherState Univ of New York Pr
- Publication date1990
- ISBN 10 0791402584
- ISBN 13 9780791402580
- BindingPaperback
- Number of pages449
- Rating
Top Search Results from the AbeBooks Marketplace
Stock Image
Vac: The Concept of the Word in Selected Hindu Tantras (SUNY series in the Shaiva Traditions of Kashmir)
Published by
State University of New York Press
(1990)
ISBN 10: 0791402584
ISBN 13: 9780791402580
Used
Soft cover
Quantity: 1
Seller:
Rating
Book Description Soft cover. Condition: Good. Some shelf wear. Owner name on bottom edge of text block and on inside front cover. About 20 pages have some pencil UNDERLINING. Otherwise a square, tight book. Index. xv, 460 pages. Seller Inventory # 063594
Buy Used
US$ 21.85
Convert currency