Halahala as the Metaphor of Ignorance and Inner Transformation in Upanishadic and Shaiva Philosophy
Deepanshu Gupta
Shodh Sagar Journal of Language, Arts, Culture and Film July 4, 2025 DOI: 10.36676/jlacf.v2.i3.39 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key points | Argues that Halahala symbolizes Avidya, mental toxins, and the psychological resistance encountered in deep spiritual sadhana, and proposes that Shiva's containment of the poison, integrated with Pranava Omkar and Sākṣī Bhāva (witness-consciousness), models an inner alchemy that transforms inner darkness into transcendent light and offers practical insight into self-realization and moksha. |
Abstract
This paper explores the profound symbolic significance of Halahala, the cosmic poison consumed by Lord Shiva during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean), as interpreted through the lens of Upanishadic philosophy and Shaiva metaphysics. Far beyond mythological narrative, Halahala is understood here as a powerful metaphor for Avidya (ignorance), mental toxins, and the psychological resistance encountered during deep spiritual sadhana. By integrating the roles of Pranava Omkar (Om) and Shiva's containment of poison, the paper presents a holistic model of inner alchemy, wherein the yogic principle of Sākṣī Bhāva (witness-consciousness) enables the transformation of inner darkness into transcendent light. This re-reading of ancient symbolism offers practical insights into the process of self-realization and liberation (moksha).