Sivastotravali of Utpaladeva

Book Detail

• Author: Joo, Lakshman S.
• Brand: D.K. Print World Ltd
• Edition: 2008
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of Pages: 300
• Release Date: 30-09-2008
• EAN: 9788124604670
• Package Dimensions: 8.6 x 6.0 x 1.2 inches
• Languages: English

Description:
Utpaladeva, a prominent philosopher of the late 9th to early 10th century, played a crucial role in the development of Kashmir Shaivism, particularly the School of Recognition (Pratyabhijna), a non-dualistic philosophical tradition. He is best known for his work Ishvarapratyabhijna Karikas (Verses on the Recognition of the Lord) and his three philosophical texts known as Siddhitrayi. These foundational works laid a solid philosophical base for the school and prepared the ground for the later contributions of his disciple, the renowned Abhinavagupta.

However, Utpaladeva was not just a philosopher but also a mystic, deeply devoted to bhakti. This side of his personality is beautifully expressed in his collection of hymns, Shivastotravali. These verses represent a profound mystical experience and devotion to Lord Shiva, blending the concepts of bhakti (devotion) and advaita (non-duality) in a complementary manner rather than as opposing forces. The Shivastotravali consists of 20 chapters (Stotras) compiled by his disciples, filled with intense longing and spiritual union with Shiva, making them one of the greatest mystical literatures in the world.

Swami Lakshman Joo, the revered last Shaiva Acharya of Kashmir (1907–1991), was deeply connected to this text. He extensively taught and expounded the Kashmir Shaivism tradition and had a profound spiritual experience of its teachings. His edition of Shivastotravali with commentary by Kshemaraja and his Hindi translation is considered the standard text. In this volume, Swami Joo’s exposition of the Shivastotravali in English is presented for the first time, offering a valuable resource for students and scholars interested in this mystical and philosophical tradition.

Target Audience:

• Scholars and students of Kashmir Shaivism and Indian philosophy
• Spiritual seekers and those interested in the mystical traditions of Hinduism
• Lovers of mystical literature and poetry
• Readers interested in bhakti and non-dualism