The Shiva Samhita – A Critical Edition

The Shiva Samhita – A Critical Edition is a translation of the ancient teachings on tantra known as Shiva Samhita. The sanskrit title means “The Collection of Verses of Shiva” and the book is considered the most important root text of Hatha Yoga. It starts out by outlining various methods of liberation and philosophical ideas and it goes into details on the non-dual Vedantic philosophy.

Download the complete English translation of The Shiva Samhita here:

The Shiva Samhita

What is the Shiva Samhita?

The Shiva Samhita is a classical text on yoga and tantra. It is considered one of the three most important texts of Hatha yoga, the others being the Hatha Yoga Pradipika and the Gheranda Samhita. The exact date of its composition is unknown, but it is generally placed between the 17th and 18th centuries.

Here are some key aspects of the Shiva Samhita:

1. Content and Structure: The text is presented as a conversation between Lord Shiva and his consort, Parvati. It consists of five chapters, covering various aspects of yoga philosophy and practice.
2. Yoga Techniques: The Shiva Samhita describes various techniques of yoga, including postures (asanas), breath control (pranayama), mudras, and meditation. It also delves into the subtle anatomy of the body, discussing chakras (energy centers), nadis (energy channels), and Kundalini energy.
3. Philosophical Teachings: The text provides insights into the nature of the self and the universe, integrating concepts from various Indian philosophical traditions. It emphasizes the importance of self-realization and the unity of individual consciousness with the universal consciousness.
4. Influence: The Shiva Samhita has been influential in the development of Hatha yoga. It has been a reference for many modern yoga practitioners and teachers, offering a blend of practical guidance and philosophical understanding.
5. Translations and Commentary: The text has been translated into several languages and has been the subject of various commentaries, making it accessible to a global audience interested in yoga and spirituality.

The Shiva Samhita is valued not only for its practical guidance on yoga but also for its comprehensive approach to understanding the mind, body, and spirit in the pursuit of enlightenment.