Living with Siva: Hinduism's Contemporary Culture

by Sivaya Subramuniyaswami

365 daily lessons based on ancient Vedic laws, disclosing how to approach family, money, relationships, technology, food, worship, yoga and karma to live a truly spiritual life. The Master Course Trilogy You will find in this book the deepest truths and insights of Indian spirituality, some of it never published before, all of it relevant to your personal awakening on the path to merging with God. Drawn from fifty years of yogic realizations and sharing the Hindu mystical teachings with aspirants, Dancing with Siva is the first book of a remarkable trilogy called The Master Course. The trilogy is a detailed summary of astanga yoga also called raja yoga, which contains eight successive steps, each one dependent upon the one that precedes it. These eight steps are yama (restraint), niyama (observance), asana (posture), pranayama (breath control), pratyahara (sense withdrawal), dharana (concentration), dhyana (meditation) and samadhi (contemplation). The trilogy articulates in lucid terms why you must begin at the beginning, with a firm foundation of philosophical clarity and good character, and proceed from there. Dancing with Siva lays out the philosophical, Vedic-Agamic beliefs, attitudes and expectations of the Saivite Hindu religion. Living with Siva, the second book of the trilogy, explores Saivite lifestyle, culture, family life character-building and the overcoming of uncomplimentary habits. If focuses on yama, niyama and, in a lesser way, asana and pranayama (hatha yoga). Merging with Siva, the third book of the trilogy, encompasses steps five, six and seven, leading to eight-the deeper realizations, samadhis, yogic experiences and mystical encounters, such as the inner light and nada-nadi sakti-all of which we begin to experience once we learn to dance with Siva and live with Siva. Upon a solid foundation of understanding, the yogic and metaphysical experiences described in Merging with Siva come naturally and are sustainable.

Genres: Religion, Hinduism

998 pages, Hardcover

First published November 1, 2001

Reviews

[Raquel · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good look into the organisation that started Hinduism Today and the most prolific in establishing Shaivism in the West. The author has some peculiarities that exist within their tradition (the SHum language, which swamiji channelled as a language of meditation, and the Tyeif script for writing sacred vows), but all in all it was a good little primer on his particular practice and tradition of Shaiva Hinduism.

I loved the idea of having a coin box before every home puja (very similar to the Jewish practice of tzedaka) and tithing to one's local temple or Hindu organisation; two practices I did not even know existed in the Hindu fold. A long read, but it was pleasant to go through it. AUM Namah Shivaya!

[Greene · Rating 5 out of 5]

A central theme of Living With Siva is the integration of spiritual practices into daily routines. Subramuniyaswami emphasizes that spirituality is not confined to rituals but should permeate all aspects of life, including family, work, and community interactions. He encourages readers to cultivate a lifestyle that reflects their spiritual values, thereby fostering a harmonious existence.

The author highlights the significance of community in spiritual growth. He argues that living within a supportive community enhances individual practice and fosters collective spiritual development. This communal aspect is particularly relevant in contemporary society, where individualism often prevails over collective well-being.

Subramuniyaswami revisits the concept of karma, emphasizing its implications for ethical living. He asserts that every action has consequences, and understanding this principle encourages individuals to act with intention and compassion. This perspective serves as a moral framework for navigating modern challenges.

The book delves into several philosophical concepts:

Siva as the Supreme Reality: Subramuniyaswami presents Siva not just as a deity but as the ultimate reality encompassing all existence. This non-dualistic view encourages readers to see beyond superficial distinctions and recognize the divine presence in all beings.

Rituals and Worship: The author discusses the role of rituals in connecting with the divine. He explains that while rituals are important, they should be performed with understanding and devotion rather than mere obligation.

Spiritual Evolution: Subramuniyaswami emphasizes the idea of spiritual evolution, suggesting that individuals progress through various stages of consciousness on their journey toward realization. This concept encourages patience and perseverance in one's spiritual practice.

Living With Siva has had a significant impact on contemporary understandings of Hinduism, particularly among those seeking a practical approach to spirituality. Its emphasis on integrating spiritual principles into everyday life resonates with modern seekers who often grapple with balancing spiritual aspirations and worldly responsibilities.

In conclusion, Living With Siva: Hinduism's Contemporary Culture serves as an essential guide for individuals seeking to harmonize their spiritual beliefs with modern living. Through its exploration of key themes such as community, ethical living, and the integration of spirituality into daily life, Sivaya Subramuniyaswami offers valuable insights that remain relevant in today's fast-paced world. The book not only enriches readers' understanding of Saivite philosophy but also invites them to cultivate a deeper relationship with the divine in their everyday experiences.