Parashiva

Parashiva, in Shaivism, particularly within the Kashmir Shaivism tradition, represents the ultimate, transcendent reality that is beyond all conceptualization and description. It is the state of pure, undifferentiated consciousness before any manifestation or limitation occurs. As such, it is often described as the unmanifested, quiescent aspect of Shiva.

Key characteristics of Parashiva include:

• Beyond Form and Quality: Parashiva transcends all forms, qualities, attributes, and categories. It is the "non-being" (asat) from which all being (sat) arises.
• Unqualified Reality: It is the ultimate reality, devoid of any limiting qualifications or conditions. It cannot be grasped by the intellect or experienced by the senses.
• The Source of All Manifestation: Though unmanifest, Parashiva is the source and ground of all manifestation. It is the potential from which the entire universe unfolds.
• Eternal and Immutable: Parashiva is eternal, unchanging, and beyond the cycle of birth and death.
• Ultimate Goal: In some Shaiva traditions, realization of Parashiva is considered the ultimate goal of spiritual practice, representing complete liberation from the limitations of ego and identification with the manifested world. This realization is often described as a state of complete union with the divine, beyond even the experience of bliss or consciousness.
• Related Concepts: Parashiva is often contrasted with Parashakti, the dynamic, active aspect of Shiva that is responsible for creation and manifestation. While Parashiva is the unmanifest potential, Parashakti is the power that actualizes that potential.