Women's tendencies and Tantra    

 April 1, 1993

     I wish to speak on Feminine Mysticism.

     This topic is not  fully explored,  as it encompasses many aspects. When Lord Shiva gave  the practices of Tantra He gave not only for men,  but also for women. Those practices have been slowly fading from this physical world but now they must be introduced once  again,  so that those who are wanting liberation may know the path.

     Now,  in this age there is much darkness,  much material thinking,  so the age is different,  but soon a new era will be dominating human consciousness. So, it is now fitting that these practices once again come to the surface.

     Now,  there are three important aspects to understanding Tantra as it relates to those in feminine aspect.  First, a woman must know her own mental tendencies, her own physical disposition and her natural biological inclinations.  She must have a grasp of this  in order to properly follow the path of Tantra.

     Now,  the second area  of importance is physiological,  it is working directly with the glands, with the biological mechanism through a'sana, pranayama, devotional practice and specific sadhanas which enhance certain propensities and diminish others. This is second area.

     Now,  the third area of importance in understanding Tantra as it relates to women is the study of psychology.  Physiology must be understood and utilized.  Psychology also must be understood and properly directed towards the most precious Entity, the Parama Purus'a.  For this there must be proper life style,  adherence to Yama and Niyama,  dedication to the Supreme,  ideation upon the Devine and self-surrender.  Study of books may be or may be not done but love must be cultivated.  Knowledge built on love and selfless service to others must also be acquired.  This constitutes the psychological approach.

     So there are two parts of Tantra, one encompassing  the physical structure and the transmutation of biologically based propensities, the other emphasizes transmutation of psychological leanings,  psychological disposition, from self absorption to absorption in the Cosmic Consciousness.   It is a cognitive and emotional transformation.

     Now,  the practices of Tantra are designed to facilitate both physical and psychological development.  In ancient times when a woman was yet young, she was taken by her mother to a preceptor to be blessed.  If the girl displayed interest in spiritual life  she would be initiated and then taught the secret teachings,  but first she would have to undergo a period of purification in which she would selflessly serve her order.  When her preceptor deemed her ready,  she would be given practical education and spiritual practices. They were highly secret and involve vows of secrecy,  but they were given for the benefit of the sincere student.  The vows were necessary in order to protect the teachings and guard against misuse.

     So in the ancient schools Tantra was practiced and many women gained great spiritual vision. These women in these orders were highly respected in the community until the rise of patriarchy destroyed them. Then they were forced to hide. The knowledge didn't die,  but it became somewhat difficult to access. Now, today Tantra is taught. There are teachings available,  but what was taught for women is not so available.  A time is coming,  when women will shoulder much responsibility, but they must be spiritually prepared, lest they fall victim to their own inclinations.

     My daughters,  you must emphasize sa'dhana,  selfless service and love for the Supreme.  Surrender all your burdens to that glorious Entity.  Attach yourself to that Devine Beloved and immerse yourself in that Cosmic Flow, so that difficulties, all barriers, all obstacles are surrendered before the feet of your Beloved. You may feel feminine aspect or masculine but which ever, you must cultivate love and surrender.  These are the keys to the feminine path of unification between the little and the Great.

     Be blessed.