The path of Aghor may seem chaotic and lawless to an outsider, but it is governed by a strict internal code of conduct and discipline. These Rules of Aghor Sadhana are not written in any public book but are profound principles passed down through the guru-shishya parampara (guru-disciple lineage). They are designed to systematically dismantle the ego, foster absolute fearlessness, and keep the sadhak (practitioner) relentlessly focused on the ultimate goal of self-realization. Here are eleven such core principles that govern the life of a true Aghori.
1. See the Divine in Everything (Sarvam Shivamayam)
This is the foundational and most important rule. An Aghori must constantly and actively strive to see every object, every person, and every situation—no matter how pleasant or repulsive—as a direct manifestation of Shiva. The philosophy of Aghor emphasizes non-dualism (Advaita), asserting that all beings are manifestations of a singular divine consciousness. There is no room for judgment, only perception of the one reality.
2. Conquer Aversion (Ghrina)
The core tenet of the Aghor path is to transcend duality, such as purity and impurity, or good and evil. The Aghori must actively seek out experiences that trigger disgust, fear, and aversion within them and learn to remain completely equanimous. This is the core reason for their association with what society deems “impure” substances and cremation grounds (Smashana). The goal is to master the mind’s habit of labeling things as good or bad.
3. Embrace Impermanence and Death
The Aghori lives with the constant, moment-to-moment awareness of death. The cremation ground is their home, and they smear cremation ashes on their bodies as a symbolic reminder of the transient nature of the physical body. Their intense sadhana in these grounds is a confrontation with mortality, a process of unlearning the cultural fear of death.
4. The Guru is the Supreme Reality
In the Aghor tradition, absolute, unquestioning faith and complete surrender to the Guru’s command is paramount, as the specific mantras and practices (sadhanas) are considered secret (Gupta) and only passed down from Guru to disciple. The Guru is viewed as the living embodiment of Lord Shiva.
5. Do Not Hate or Fear Anyone
The very term Aghora translates to “not terrible” or “beyond fear”. Since all beings are seen as forms of Shiva in different masks, an Aghori strives to conquer hatred and see the divine consciousness even in those who may wish them harm.
6. Live on Alms (Bhiksha)
A true Aghori does not earn money or store food for the future; they renounce material possessions and worldly attachments. This ascetic lifestyle often involves begging for food (Bhiksha) and surviving on meagre resources. This practice fosters a deep dependence on the divine will by crushing the ego’s sense of self-reliance.
7. Respect Nature
Despite their unconventional practices, the underlying philosophy of Aghor is deeply rooted in Dharma. They are forbidden from harming any plant or animal unnecessarily, seeing the entire creation as a manifestation of the non-dual reality.
8. Remain in a State of ‘Aunghar’ (Divine Bliss)
While ‘Aunghar’ is a nuanced term, the ultimate aim of the Aghori’s intense meditation and rituals is to achieve a state of Moksha (liberation). This involves being perpetually detached from worldly affairs and immersed in the “God-intoxicated” state of Shiva, transcending the normal states of human consciousness.
9. Do Not Use Siddhis (Powers) for Selfish Gain
The intense sadhana of an Aghori can awaken powerful supernatural abilities (siddhis). A true Aghori is strictly forbidden from using these powers for personal fame, wealth, or to harm others, as the end sought by the process of sadhana is Sadhya or Siddhi (the desired spiritual result) and not worldly gain. They are seen as a major distraction and a test of the ego.
10. Maintain Absolute Secrecy of Personal Sadhana
The specific mantras, rituals, and practices (kriyas) given by a Guru are deeply personal and secret, often referred to as Gupta. This rule ensures that the spiritual process remains a private matter between the Guru, the disciple, and the divine, protecting the integrity and power of the highly potent Tantric sadhana.
11. The Welfare of All Beings (Loka Kalyan)
Contrary to their fearsome, self-isolating image, many Aghori gurus command great reverence and are supposed to possess healing powers gained through their intense rites. The underlying goal of their sadhana is not merely self-liberation but also compassion and service for all beings. It is believed their energy helps maintain cosmic balance.
The 11 unspoken rules are the foundation of a spiritual journey defined by absolute courage and unwavering commitment to non-duality. The path of the Aghori is a relentless fire designed to burn away the ego and shatter the illusion of separation. It is a path of ultimate surrender to a reality where the pure and the impure cease to exist. To understand the historical and philosophical foundations of this rigorous path, explore the philosophical background of Aghori asceticism that provides deeper cultural and spiritual context.
Frequently Asked Questions
1: What is the main goal of Aghor Sadhana?
The main goal of Aghor Sadhana is to achieve Moksha, or liberation from the cycle of birth and death, through the realization of the non-dual nature of existence where the Self is identical to the Absolute (Brahman).
2: Why do Aghoris live in cremation grounds?
Aghoris dwell in cremation grounds (Smashana) to constantly confront the reality of death and impermanence, thereby overcoming the fear of death, which is seen as the greatest hindrance to authentic living.
3: Are Aghoris followers of Lord Shiva?
Yes, Aghoris are staunch devotees of Lord Shiva, particularly in his fierce manifestation as Bhairava, and are the only surviving sect derived from the ancient Tantric Kāpālika tradition.Their devotion aligns with the Shaivism tradition of Hinduism that views all existence as expressions of the same divine consciousness.
4: Can a householder practice Aghor principles?
While the traditional practices are for ascetics, the core Aghor principle of transcending duality (seeing good and bad as one) and non-judgment can be adopted by householders for spiritual growth
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