Śivasaṃhitā
The Śivasaṃhitā, one of the four classical texts of haṭha yoga, presents 644 verses organized in five paṭalas ranging from non-dual philosophy to the most advanced samādhi techniques.
The Śivasaṃhitā (शिवसंहिता), probably composed in the 15th century, is the most complete synthesis of classical yoga. Unlike other texts that focus on specific aspects, this work integrates philosophy (jñāna), subtle anatomy (microcosm), practice (sādhana), advanced techniques (mudrā), and states of consciousness (dhyāna) into a coherent system.
Structure: 644 verses organized in 5 paṭalas (chapters)—from non-dual foundations to the most refined samādhi techniques.
Paṭala 1Prathamaḥ paṭalaḥ
प्रथमपटलः — Knowledge — Jñāna
The first chapter establishes the philosophical foundations of yoga from a non-dual perspective. Śiva, as the supreme teacher, declares the unity of consciousness and critiques partial doctrines before presenting yoga as the only true path to liberation.
Main themes:
Paṭala 2Dvitīyaḥ paṭalaḥ
द्वितीयपटलः — Microcosm — The subtle body
The second chapter describes the subtle anatomy of the human body: the 72,000 nāḍīs, the 14 principal energy channels, the five prāṇas, and the relationship between macrocosm and microcosm.
Paṭala 3Tṛtīyaḥ paṭalaḥ
तृतीयपटलः — Practice — Sādhana
The third chapter is the practical manual: āsanas, prāṇāyāma, and kumbhaka. It describes the four essential postures, breathing techniques, and the conditions necessary for effective practice.
Main themes:
Paṭala 4Caturthaḥ paṭalaḥ
चतुर्थपटलः — Seals — Mudrā
The fourth chapter presents the ten great mudrās and bandhas—energetic sealing techniques that awaken kuṇḍalinī and lead to samādhi.
Main themes:
Paṭala 5Pañcamaḥ paṭalaḥ
पञ्चमपटलः — Meditation — Dhyāna and samādhi
The extensive fifth chapter is the culmination: the four types of yoga (mantra, laya, haṭha, rāja), obstacles and signs of progress, the guru-disciple relationship, and the different states of samādhi.
Main themes:
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About this edition
This digital edition presents the 644 verses of the Śivasaṃhitā with Sanskrit text, IAST transliteration, English translation, and contextual commentary.
Sources: The Sanskrit text is based on manuscripts edited by Muktabodha Digital Library. The reference English translation is by Rai Bahadur Srisa Chandra Vasu (1914), adapted with emphasis on technical precision and contemporary accessibility.
Methodology: Each verse includes commentary that situates the teaching in its historical, philosophical, and practical context, following the tradition of medieval śaiva commentaries.