Nara-tattva

Nara-tattva

नरतत्त्व, naratattva

In translation it means "human nature" ("nara" is human, "tattva" is nature or essence).

In Natha Sampradaya, spiritual training is attained through developing relationships with Guru, following his instructions because for us, human beings, nara-tattva is closest to perception. For example, Deities are such levels of consciousness and energy that a disciple may be unable to perceive at once. Therefore, when transcendental knowledge is manifested through Guru in human form, it speeds up our development in sadhana.

In the texts of Nathas, as well as in the Tantric scriptures, it is stated that Guru, manifested in human form, is paramount. Nara-tattva is very important for Nathas – Devatas are represented here in image of yogis, not their usual abstract shapes: Shiva in the form of Gorakshanath, Ganesha in the form of Gajakantharnath, Vishnu – Santoshnath, Brahma – Satyanath, etc. The human form of Deity is most easily perceived by man, as it is connected with himself (with his nara-tattva), it is easier for him to focus and keep his attention on such an image, which allows his energy and mind to unfold.

Moreover, Nathas strive to find a perfect spiritual realization in their own body, in human form. In the tradition it is believed that the human body is the most favorable for achieving yoga's goals. Therefore Gorakshanath, the ideal of all yoga practitioners, is a perfect manifestation of transcendent and immanent nature of God combined in human (nara) form. Nara-tattva was originally identical to the Absolute, but because of ignorance people may not feel it. The correct practice of hatha-yoga purifies prana, the subtle channels in the body, allowing the consciousness to spiritualize the body and to re-perceive this divine connection.