Vimarśa

Article summary

Vimarśa is a philosophical concept in Shaivism that comes from the "Recognition" (Pratyabhijñā) philosophy, introduced by Utpaladeva and Abhinavagupta, two eminent masters in Kashmir Śaivism from around the 9th and 10th centuries. As per the Pratyabhijñā philosophy, Vimarśa and Prakāśa are seen as two aspects of consciousness. Dr. Sthaneshwar Timalsina, founder of the Vimarsha Foundation in his paper describes [[Prakāśa] as a light that helps us see things within and around us, while Vimarśa makes us aware of our seeing. These elements are closely linked and depend on each other. In contrast to the passive nature of consciousness in Advaita Vedanta, Abhinavagupta characterizes consciousness in Pratyabhijñā as active and free (svātantrya), able to take many forms. Indeed, In Kashmir Śaivism, the Sanskrit term "Caitanyam" refers to more than just consciousness. It signifies an awareness of a conscious reality, known as "cetana," characterized by complete freedom in knowledge and action. Caitanyam is considered the fundamental nature of reality, encompassing consciousness (cit) and bliss (ananda). It manifests through will (iccha), knowledge (jnana), and activity (kriya). Vimarśa isn't just about noticing things; it's about the desire to show itself in different ways (icchā-śakti).

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