Question map
Who propounded Kashmir Shaivism?
Explanation
Kashmir Shaivism, a non-dualist Hindu tradition, was propounded by Vasugupta in the 9th century CE. He is credited as the originator of this branch of Shaivism after receiving divine revelation in a dream. This revelation led to the composition of the 'Shiva Sutras', which serve as the foundational text for the entire tradition, addressing the nature of reality and consciousness [1]. While Abhinavagupta (10th-11th century CE) was a pivotal figure who synthesized and expanded the philosophy through works like 'Tantraloka' and 'Pratyabhijna', the initial propounder and author of the core Shastra remains Vasugupta. The tradition emphasizes the concept of 'Pratyabhijna' or self-recognition of one's identity with the Divine. Other figures like Ramakantha were later commentators, and Rangnathanacharya is associated with different traditions.
Sources
- [1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kashmir_Shaivism