Yantra: The Tantric Symbol of Cosmic Unity [Paperback]

Madhu Khanna (Author), Ajit Mookerjee (Foreword)

Book Description

Publication Date: October 31, 2003

The first comprehensive study of the Indian power symbol that allows the individual to take a journey to the primordial center of life

• Highly illustrated exploration of every aspect of the yantra, including its related rituals, sounds, and meditation practices

• Investigates the continued use of the yantra in modern India as a magic talisman

The yantra is both a complex metaphysical symbol and a tool of ritual and meditation. In kundalini yoga, the patterns contained in this metaphysical and geometrical construct correspond to the psychic centers of the subtle body, therefore making the body itself a functioning yantra. In this book, which is the first comprehensive study of the subject, the author provides a step-by-step explanation of the dynamic process wherein the yantra aids the individual in the spiritual journey to return to original wholeness.

Every aspect of this important Indian symbol is explored, from its related sounds, rituals, and use in meditation to its application in traditional temple architecture and sculpture. The author also looks at its continued use in both the “black” and “white” magic traditions of the subcontinent, as well as its power as a talisman.

Editorial Reviews

Review

“A worthy introduction to a noble subject.”
(Arts Review )

"Yantra explores the dynamics, metaphysics, aesthetics, and ritual importance of yantras."
(Yoga Journal, August 2004 )

"Readers of both Eastern and Western backgrounds will find this book provocative and profoundly informative."
(Thomas Peter von Bahr, New Age Retailer, May/June 2004, Vol.18 No.3 )

About the Author

Madhu Khanna is a scholar specializing in both Eastern and Western philosophy. He is coauthor, with Ajit Mookerjee, of The Tantric Way.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 176 pages
• Publisher: Inner Traditions (October 31, 2003)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0892811323
• ISBN-13: 978-0892811328
• Product Dimensions: 10 x 9.5 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.8 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (5 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #412,577 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

67 of 68 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Exhaustive Analysis of Yantras and the Philosophy behind it, May 9, 2000

By A Customer

This review is from: Yantra: The Tantric Symbol of Cosmic Unity (Paperback)

This book details all kinds of historical Yantras as revealed in various Vedas (historic Hindu scriptures). Yantras are cosmic machines which directs energies to the human body/mind to attain various psychic states. The author dwells deeply in to the philosophy behind it, which in essence is Hinduism. Understanding the Hindu concept of the world, the cosmos and the human being is the key to unlocking the power of Yantra. A reader who is not exposed to Eastern religious philosophies will find it difficult to comprehend the description of concepts behind the Yantra.

This book has many illustrations of historic Yantras and details of the significance of its geometric drawings. I liked this book for the depth of analysis and the description of underlying concepts. Please note that this is NOT an instruction work book on Yantras which details about how to make a Yantra.

One disappointing fact is that the author uses little space to describe Occult Yantras which are commonly used by ordinary people for protection, healing and power. The Sri Yantra, which enables a person to attain higher states is described in detail. Overall this book gave me indepth knowledge about the working of a Yantra - the energized cosmic machine.

12 of 12 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A Valuable Resource, January 1, 2008

By 

Anonymous (San Francisco) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Yantra: The Tantric Symbol of Cosmic Unity (Paperback)

Surprisng that this book has only one review here, considering most everyone i know has a copy in their library, and considers this book a cornerstone of their collection.

This book provides detailed, concise info regarding what the different yantras represent and how they work. I would have appreciated more information about the pecularities of use for different traditions. In any case i can't recommend this book enough. Thank goodness this book has not gone out of print.

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An excellent resource, June 17, 2010

By 

Donna Miesbach "Nebraska yogini" (Omaha NE) - See all my reviews
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Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Yantra: The Tantric Symbol of Cosmic Unity (Paperback)

Finally here is a book that takes you into the mystery of the yantra while exploring its history, its mechanics, and its deep symbolism. Abundant pictures and diagrams make it easy to follow its descriptions and explanations which open up a way of seeing things that may not have been previously accessible. This is a comprehensive work that offers the reader a wealth of information, leaving one with a deep appreciation for those who were so dedicated that they could penetrate the meaning of sacred symbols and enshrine their energy via the yantra.