In 1919, Woodroffe translated this Sanskrit text into English, bringing the concept of chakras to the Western world for the first time. His work remains the definitive version, featuring: The original poetic descriptions.
Why does a 16th-century text still drive Google searches for "PDF"? Because the solved a problem we still have today: Mapping consciousness .
A two-petalled white lotus containing a golden triangle.
A ram (representing aggression and transformative power). Presiding Deities: Lord Rudra and Goddess Lakini. 4. Anahata Chakra (Heart Center) Location: The region of the heart.
In contemporary wellness, chakras are often simplified into "colour-coded energy wheels" for emotional healing. While helpful, studying the Shat Chakra Nirupana offers a deeper experience:
It forms the sixth chapter of Swami Purnananda’s Shritattvachintamani .
To understand the text, one must grasp the metaphysical framework it presents. The Shat Chakra Nirupana describes the human body not merely as a physiological mechanism, but as a vessel for the universe. It posits that the Absolute Consciousness (Brahman) exists in two aspects: the static, coiled power known as Kundalini Shakti, and the dynamic, active power that pervades the universe.
The serpent power is described as "fine as the fibre of a lotus-stalk" and "beautiful like a chain of lightning". Through yogic practice involving asana , pranayama , mudra , and mantra, the serpent is awakened and guided upward through the central sushumna nadi , piercing each lotus-like chakra on its journey to the crown chakra, where union with Shiva results in spiritual liberation.
Helps you pronounce the Sanskrit words correctly.
The center of speech, purification, and the integration of higher wisdom. 6. Ajna Chakra (Third Eye Center) Location: Between the eyebrows.