Pāśupatasutras
From Hindupedia, the Hindu Encyclopedia
By Swami Harshananda
It is one of the chief basic texts of the Pāśupata. Śaivism is the Pāśupatasutras[1] with the bhāṣya[2] of Kauṇḍinya.[3] Since five subjects have been discussed, this work is also known as the Pañcārthasutras. These subjects are:
- Kārya - effect
- Kāraṇa - cause
- Yoga - meditation and union
- Vidhi - behavior
- Duḍkhānta - dissolution of sorrow
Only a brāhmaṇa with keen senses was considered to be fit for the path of spiritual discipline described here. The work lays a great emphasis on ascetic forms of the discipline. Paśupati’s or īśvara’s grace is absolutely necessary to attain duhkhānta.[4]
References[edit]
- The Concise Encyclopedia of Hinduism, Swami Harshananda, Ram Krishna Math, Bangalore