Tantra Illuminated with Dr. Christopher Wallis

This episode offers a special reading of Alexis Sanderson's groundbreaking academic article, Purity and Power among the Brāhmans of Kashmir. Professor Emeritus of Eastern Religions and Ethics at the University of Oxford and Emeritus Fellow of All Souls College, Sanderson is widely regarded as the greatest living scholar of Tantric studies in the Western world. His illustrious 40-year career began with this article, written after 14 years of meticulous research, and it remains one of the most impressive first publications by a scholar in the field. The reading explores the interplay of purity and power within Indian religious traditions, examining the dynamic relationships between the orthodoxy of Brahmanic purity, the transformative practices of Tantric traditions, and the visionary radicalism of heterodox movements in medieval Kashmir (8th–12th centuries). While the reading is substantial, the second half contains some truly remarkable passages that are well worth the journey.Discover more meditations, teachings, and resources at tantrailluminated.org. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week’s episode features an archival interview with Jacob Kyle, yoga and meditation teacher, writer, philosophy educator, and founder of Embodied Philosophy, an online educational platform for wisdom studies and contemplative practices, as well as host of the Chitheads podcast. The conversation explores the role of the scholar-practitioner in bridging the gap between rigorous academic scholarship and lived spiritual practice. The discussion delves into the distinction between awakening and liberation, emphasizing that while awakening involves recognizing one’s true nature, liberation requires the integration of that awakening into daily life. They also examine the challenges of bringing spiritual realizations into relationships and daily conduct, highlighting the importance of integration to avoid spiritual bypassing. Additionally, the conversation contrasts non-dual Shaiva Tantra with other traditions, offering insights into the philosophical and practical relevance of these teachings in everyday life.Get 25% off Embodied Philosophy’s Wisdom School for life with the coupon code ILLUMINATED25.Discover a treasure trove of guided meditations, teachings, and courses at tantrailluminated.org. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week's episode is a guided meditation centered on a simple yet profound somatic inquiry: What might it feel like to listen with the whole body? We are invited to listen to the whole of experience, cultivating presence by tuning into the vibrancy of awareness. Through gentle attention, we explore what it means to listen, not just with the ears, but with the entirety of our body. The meditation concludes with a beautiful Sanskrit verse from the Upanishads, reminding us of the wholeness at the heart of all existence. Take this time to settle into stillness and embrace the experience of simply being. Discover a treasure trove of guided meditations, teachings, and courses at tantrailluminated.org. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode features a conversation with Kiran Trace, a renowned teacher, speaker, and author who has helped thousands of people worldwide on their path to awakening. Kiran has developed a powerful set of tools to support people in freeing themselves from suffering and integrating their spiritual awakening into daily life. Her own journey began with a radical, spontaneous awakening—with no prior spiritual training or context. In a transformative moment, she died and instantly became the vastness of pure presence and being, and then had to find her way back into form and normality. Through this experience, she gained insights that she shares in her book Tools for Sanity. In this conversation, Kiran shares her story of self-discovery and healing, providing insights into releasing trauma and reconnecting with the innate vibrancy of awareness. Topics include the challenges of integrating deep spiritual experiences, the journey from suffering to freedom, and the creation of tools that empower others to transform what Eckhart Tolle might call their "pain bodies." With her fresh and candid perspective, Kiran offers a unique view of how awakening can unfold and deepen in unexpected ways.Take Kiran’s free course here. Send an email to [email protected] with the subject ‘Ready for FYM!’ to receive 50% off the course Free Your Mind.Discover a treasure trove of guided meditations, teachings, and courses at tantrailluminated.org. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.