Sadhguru Explained why 108 Chakras are lunatic arguments

Sadhguru says the Misconception of 108 Chakras: Understanding the Truth About the 10 Chakras Out of them 9 Chakras are within the body and two are Hidden Centers.

Article | Rishikesh | March 25, 2016

Sadhguru: The concept of chakras—spinning wheels of energy within the human body—has been a cornerstone of esoteric spirituality and yogic traditions for centuries. However, a significant misconception has permeated modern spiritual discourse: the belief that there are 108 chakras. This notion, while rooted in symbolic interpretations and numerological significance, does not align with the classical yogic understanding of the energy body. Traditional texts and teachings describe only ten primary chakras, two of which are considered "hidden" or Gupta Chakras. These hidden centers are the Gupta Anahata Chakra and the Lalona Chakra, which play crucial roles in advanced spiritual practices.

In this article, we will explore the origins of the 108-chakra belief, clarify the classical understanding of the 10 chakras, and delve deeply into the significance of the hidden chakras, revealing their profound implications for spiritual evolution.

The Origins of the 108-Chakra Belief

The number 108 holds immense significance across various spiritual and cultural traditions. In ancient Indian tradition, it is considered a sacred number, representing the universe's wholeness. This symbolism extends to:

1. Vedic Astronomy: The distance between the Earth and the Sun is approximately 108 times the Sun’s diameter.

2. Mantra Repetition: Mala beads traditionally have 108 beads, reflecting completeness in mantra chanting.

3. Sacred Geometry: The number 108 is linked to the golden ratio, embodying cosmic harmony.

While the number 108 symbolizes spiritual completeness, it does not correspond to the physical or metaphysical structure of chakras within the human body. The belief in 108 chakras likely stems from the symbolic significance of the number rather than any scriptural or experiential evidence. In classical yoga and tantra, the focus remains on the primary energy centers that govern human consciousness and spiritual growth.

The Classical Understanding: 10 Chakras

Traditional yogic and tantric systems recognize ten chakras, distributed along the Sushumna Nadi, the central energy channel that runs along the spine. These chakras are:

1. Muladhara Chakra (Root Chakra): Located at the base of the spine, it governs survival instincts and grounding.

2. Svadhisthana Chakra (Sacral Chakra): Found just below the navel, it relates to creativity and sexual energy.

3. Manipura Chakra (Solar Plexus Chakra): Situated at the navel, it controls personal power and self-esteem.

4. Anahata Chakra (Heart Chakra): Located at the center of the chest, it is the seat of love and compassion.

5. Vishuddha Chakra (Throat Chakra): Found at the throat, it governs communication and truth.

6. Ajna Chakra (Third Eye Chakra): Positioned between the eyebrows, it relates to intuition and inner vision.

7. Sahasrara Chakra (Crown Chakra): At the top of the head, it connects to universal consciousness.

In addition to these seven chakras, classical teachings identify three higher or "hidden" chakras:

8. Lalona Chakra: A hidden center associated with higher perception and the awakening of dormant faculties.

9. Gupta Anahata Chakra: A concealed energy center connected to the subtle heart and profound spiritual experiences.

10. Guru Chakra: Above the crown, representing ultimate guidance and surrender to divine wisdom.

The Two Hidden Chakras: Lalona and Gupta Anahata

Lalona Chakra

The Lalona Chakra is a lesser-known energy center located at the back of the head, near the medulla oblongata. It is sometimes referred to as the "Mouth of God" in esoteric traditions. The Lalona Chakra is significant in advanced spiritual practices, particularly in activating higher states of perception.

• Location: At the base of the skull.

• Element: Ether.

• Function: It serves as a gateway to higher dimensions of consciousness, allowing the practitioner to transcend ordinary perception.

• Activation: Chanting bija mantras, breath control, and advanced meditation techniques help activate this chakra.

The Lalona Chakra bridges the gap between the Ajna Chakra and the Sahasrara Chakra, facilitating the flow of cosmic energy into the human system. It is often dormant in most individuals and requires specific yogic practices for activation.

Gupta Anahata Chakra

The Gupta Anahata Chakra is a subtle extension of the Anahata Chakra, hidden deep within the energetic layers of the heart region. While the Anahata Chakra governs universal love and compassion, the Gupta Anahata delves into the transcendental dimensions of divine love.

• Location: Hidden within the Anahata Chakra, deeper in the heart space.

• Element: Subtle air.

• Function: It connects the individual soul (Atman) to the universal soul (Paramatman), fostering profound spiritual awakening.

• Activation: Bhakti yoga, devotional practices, and meditations centered on divine love awaken this chakra.

The Gupta Anahata Chakra holds the potential for mystical experiences and the realization of non-dual consciousness. It is often described as the "secret heart," accessible only to advanced practitioners who have transcended egoic barriers.

Why the 108-Chakra Belief Persists

The misconception of 108 chakras likely persists due to the interplay of symbolic interpretations and the modern emphasis on expansive spiritual frameworks. Many contemporary spiritual systems aim to simplify ancient teachings or adapt them to broader audiences, sometimes at the cost of accuracy. While the idea of 108 energy points can serve as a metaphor for the interconnectedness of the human energy system, it is essential to distinguish this from the classical understanding of chakras.

The Role of the 10 Chakras in Spiritual Evolution

The 10 chakras, including the two hidden centers, represent the full spectrum of human consciousness and spiritual potential. Each chakra corresponds to specific qualities and developmental stages, guiding practitioners on their journey toward self-realization. The two hidden chakras, Lalona and Gupta Anahata, play pivotal roles in advanced stages of spiritual awakening:

• Lalona Chakra: Facilitates the integration of higher wisdom and subtle perception, breaking the boundaries of ordinary consciousness.

• Gupta Anahata Chakra: Opens the gateway to unconditional divine love and unity with the cosmos.

By focusing on these ten chakras, practitioners can achieve a holistic and profound transformation, aligning their physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual dimensions.

Practical Steps to Work with the 10 Chakras

To awaken and balance the 10 chakras, including the hidden centers, practitioners can incorporate the following techniques:

1. Asanas (Postures): Specific yoga postures stimulate energy flow in the chakras.

2. Pranayama (Breathwork): Controlled breathing techniques, such as Nadi Shodhana, activate and balance the energy centers.

3. Meditation: Visualization and mantra meditation focused on individual chakras can deepen awareness and activation.

4. Mantras: Chanting specific bija mantras resonates with each chakra, enhancing their energy.

5. Mudras and Bandhas: Subtle hand gestures and energy locks direct energy flow through the chakras.

6. Devotion and Surrender: Bhakti practices, particularly for the Gupta Anahata Chakra, foster a connection with divine love.

Conclusion

The belief in 108 chakras, while symbolically rich, does not reflect the classical yogic understanding of the human energy system. By focusing on the ten primary chakras, including the hidden Lalona and Gupta Anahata chakras, practitioners can access deeper layers of their being and unlock their true spiritual potential. These ten chakras form the foundation of authentic yogic practices, guiding individuals toward ultimate self-realization and unity with the cosmos.

Understanding and working with the correct framework of chakras is not only essential for spiritual growth but also for preserving the integrity of ancient wisdom. By moving beyond misconceptions and delving into the profound teachings of the 10 chakras, we honor the timeless traditions that continue to illuminate the path of self-discovery.