Diksha, or initiation, is a vital step in Tantra sadhana. As stated in the Kularnava Tantra, liberation (moksha) is not possible without diksha. It is the Guru who initiates the disciple, tailoring the sadhana to suit the disciple’s level of competence and readiness.
During the initiation ceremony, Guru performs Shaktipata—a transmission of energy or life force (prana)—which removes many impurities from the disciple’s mind. This process is equally experienced by the disciple in both their gross (physical) and subtle (energy) bodies.
The word Diksha itself holds significant meaning:
- Di refers to that which imparts knowledge.
- Ksha signifies that which eradicates primal tendencies and impurities.
According to Tantra Mahavigyan, diksha is the process through which sins are dissolved, and divine knowledge is bestowed. It is both a spiritual purification and an awakening, paving the way for deeper sadhana and realization of the ultimate truth.
Initiation (Diksha) in Tantra can occur through four primary methods:
- Touch (Sparsha Diksha): The Guru initiates the disciple by physical contact, transferring energy directly.
- Sight (Drik Diksha): The Guru’s focused gaze conveys the initiation, awakening latent energies in the disciple.
- Sound (Shabda Diksha): The Guru uses mantras or words to initiate the disciple, aligning their consciousness with higher vibrations.
- Mind (Manasa Diksha): Initiation occurs through the Guru’s mental focus and intention, transmitting energy and knowledge telepathically.
In the classical Tantra initiation process, the Guru first purifies the disciple, removing mental and spiritual impurities. The Guru then transfers Shaktipata—a powerful descent of energy or grace—into the disciple, awakening their latent spiritual power.
Shaktipata, meaning “descent of grace” or “descent of power,” is a transformative experience that activates the dormant Kundalini Shakti within the disciple. However, for this process to be effective, the Guru must have already awakened their own Kundalini Shakti and realized the ultimate truth, the Brahman.
Initiation (Diksha) serves as the key to removing the veil of mystery surrounding spiritual truths. It empowers the disciple to uncover the hidden meanings embedded in scriptures, which are often written in mystical or symbolic language. These deeper truths cannot be fully understood through self-study alone, as independent efforts can lead to confusion and, ultimately, greater ignorance.
Through Diksha, the Guru provides the disciple with the proper perspective and insight required to study scriptures effectively and practice yoga with clarity. The Guru’s guidance ensures that the disciple’s spiritual journey is aligned with the intended path and free from misinterpretation.
In the absence of initiation, practices such as japa (repetition of mantras), pooja (ritual worship), and other spiritual acts are considered ineffective. Diksha is the gateway that sanctifies these practices, making them potent tools for spiritual growth and realization.
