✦ Vijnana Bhairava Tantra
Technique 6 of 112 — The Piercing Of The Centers
Sanskrit Verse
śakti-kuṇḍalinī-rūpā bhramara-samatāṃ gatā | ghaṭṭanena prabuddhā syāt-sarva-saṃvit-pradāyinī ||
The Shakti in the form of Kundalini, resembling a bee, is awakened through friction (contraction); she then bestows all-encompassing consciousness as she moves.
Commentary
Dharana 6 introduces the concept of Kundalini, the primordial energy coiled at the base of the spine. The verse uses the metaphor of a 'bhramara' or honeybee, suggesting both the humming sound of the energy and its ability to 'pollinate' or awaken the various centers (chakras). The 'friction' mentioned is the application of internal locks (bandhas) and the directed movement of Prana. When the latent energy is stimulated, it rises through the central channel, piercing the knots of ignorance. This is not merely a physical or energetic sensation but a metaphysical shift where the individual's limited awareness is expanded into 'sarva-saṃvit'—all-encompassing consciousness. The rising Shakti acts as the bridge between the finite and the infinite. As she moves upward, she dissolves the practitioner's identification with the gross body, leading to a state of spiritual illumination. The practitioner must have a stable foundation in basic breathwork before attempting this, as the movement of Kundalini can be intense and requires a purified 'nadi' system to safely integrate the resulting increase in conscious intensity.
Practice Instructions
- 01Sit in Siddhasana or Padmasana. Visualize a brilliant thread of light at the base of the spine.
- 02Gently apply Mula Bandha (root lock) to create a subtle internal 'friction' or stimulation.
- 03Inhale slowly, visualizing the energy rising like a humming bee through the central channel of the spine.
- 04Feel the energy piercing each chakra from the root to the crown. As the energy passes through each center, imagine it blossoming into light.
- 05Maintain the focus on the sound and vibration of this rising Shakti. When the energy reaches the Sahasrara (crown), let it burst into a thousand-petaled light, merging your individual self with the universal field.
- 06Exhale naturally, keeping the awareness at the crown. Repeat the process, feeling the path becoming smoother and more luminous with each cycle.
- 07End the practice by resting in the silence of the crown chakra.
Recommended Duration
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the 'bee' metaphor specifically represent?
The bee represents the vibration (spanda) and the subtle sound (nada) of the awakened Kundalini. Just as a bee moves with a distinct hum and purpose, the energy has a specific frequency and a goal to reach the 'honey' of the crown chakra, which is pure consciousness.
Is it necessary to know the locations of all the chakras?
While a general understanding of the spinal centers is helpful, the most important aspect is the visualization of the central channel (Sushumna). Focusing on the vertical axis of the spine and the upward movement of energy is sufficient to activate the transformative effects described in the verse.
What kind of 'friction' is required?
Friction in this context refers to 'ghattana', which involves the contraction of the pelvic floor and the synchronized movement of breath. This creates a thermal and energetic pressure that 'stirs' the dormant Shakti, encouraging it to leave its resting place and enter the central path.
Can this practice cause physical tremors?
Yes, as the energy moves through blockages in the nervous system, it can cause involuntary movements or heat. If this happens, stay calm, breathe deeply, and relax any muscular effort. The sensations are temporary signs of the energetic system being purified and recalibrated.
How do I know if I have achieved 'all-encompassing consciousness'?
This state is characterized by a loss of the sense of a separate 'I' and a feeling of being interconnected with all existence. It is often accompanied by a profound sense of peace, clarity, and the realization that your own awareness is the source of all perception.
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