Consider the following statements: 1. Abhinavagupta wrote a comprehe

Consider the following statements:

  • 1. Abhinavagupta wrote a comprehensive treatise called the Tantraloka which systematically presents the teachings of the Kula and Trika systems
  • 2. The Samaraichchakaha by Hariibhadra Suri written in Gujarat around the eighth century is technically not a tantric work but is saturated with tantric ideas and practices

Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

1 only
2 only
Both 1 and 2
Neither 1 nor 2
This question was previously asked in
UPSC CDS-1 – 2016
Statement 1 is correct. Abhinavagupta (c. 975-1025 CE) was a prominent philosopher and mystic of Kashmir Shaivism. His monumental work, *Tantraloka*, is considered the most comprehensive and authoritative synthesis of the teachings of the Trika and Kula systems of Kashmir Shaivism, which are indeed forms of Tantra. Statement 2 is incorrect. Hariibhadra Suri (c. 8th century) was a highly respected Jain philosopher and author. His *Samaraichchakaha* is a major narrative work in Prakrit, focusing on Jain doctrines of karma and rebirth through a series of stories. While it deals with philosophical concepts, it is a key text of Jainism and is not generally classified as a tantric work, nor is it considered “saturated with tantric ideas and practices” in the way that term is used in the context of Shaiva or Shakta tantra. Jainism is a distinct philosophical and religious tradition.
Abhinavagupta is central to Kashmir Shaivism and Tantra, while Hariibhadra Suri is a key figure in Jainism, and their works belong to distinct traditions.
Kashmir Shaivism is a non-dualistic tradition that incorporates tantric practices and philosophy. Jainism is an ancient Indian religion that follows a path of non-violence towards all living beings and asceticism.
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