ABSTRACT
Chapter 3 details the biography of the contemporary Kashmiri master, Lakshman Joo Raina (1907–1991), and discusses the pivotal role of the swami for the modern spread of Nondual Śaivism among peoples of European descent. The chapter begins with a brief summary concerning the unique historical context of the late twentieth century, which brought Western spiritual seekers and scholars to Kashmir in search of ancient teachings. Next, it provides a biographical sketch of Lakshman Joo, whom many consider to have been the last living master of an unbroken tradition going back to the medieval period. As a scholar, yogi and moral exemplar of “Kashmir Śaivism,” the Swami attracted to himself a small but dedicated group of Indian and international scholars and practitioners. To his close devotees he was a divine incarnation of Śiva, and on equal footing with the great Abhinavagupta. Some even believe he possessed supernatural powers, which he used to benefit others. The chapter concludes with a discussion of the Ishwar Ashram Trust and the Universal Shaiva Fellowship, two institutions founded as a legacy of Lakshman Joo’s life and teachings.
