Hariharatāratamya of Haradatta

The Hariharatāratamya, attributed to the scholar Haradatta, is an intricate text that delves into the metaphysical and devotional aspects of the unity between Viṣṇu (Hari) and Śiva (Hara). The title Hariharatāratamya translates to "the equality of Hari and Hara," meaning a philosophical exploration of the duality and unity of these two principal deities. The text is attributed to the Vīraśaiva lineage.

Structure

The structure of the text is built upon a series of verses that juxtapose the attributes and qualities of Viṣṇu and Śiva. It employs a unique rhetorical form, with each verse presenting a question or statement regarding the nature of the two deities, followed by an affirmation of their essential oneness. This stylistic approach serves to illustrate the philosophical depth and to engage the reader in deep contemplation. Through metaphors and analogies, the text seeks to elevate the mind of the practitioner and guide them towards a realisation of the nonduality of all phenomena.

Key Themes

One of the key themes explored in the Hariharatāratamya is that of advaya or nonduality: Viṣṇu and Śiva, despite appearing as distinct entities in the saṁsāric order, are ultimately the same in essence. The text presents an array of descriptions of their divine forms, powers, and manifestations. For instance, it speaks of Viṣṇu as the preserver of the universe, the one who sustains all life, while Śiva is depicted as the destroyer and transformer. Both deities are integral parts of the same cosmic process, one creating, the other destroying, but both necessary.

Viṣṇu and Śiva in their Unitive Qualities

The verses draw upon rich imagery from nature, comparing the deities' actions and qualities to elements of the natural world. Viṣṇu is likened to the moon, the sun, or the oceans, symbolising his ever-present, sustaining force. Śiva is portrayed as the embodiment of fierce, untamed energy, akin to storms, fire, and mountains. These metaphors paint a vivid picture of the divine and reflect the dual nature of existence—where destruction and creation are two sides of the same coin.

Bhakti and Surrender to the Unified Essence

The text places emphasis on bhakti and surrender as paths to understanding the ultimate truth. It encourages the practitioner to meditate on the unity of Hari and Hara, transcending the limitations of the material world and recognising the presence of the divine in all phenomena. 

The frequent refrain, "ko vānayor adhika ity anucintya vṛddhāḥ satyaṃ vadantu tam imaṃ vayam āśrayāmaḥ" helps the practitioner to reflect upon the question of which is greater, Viṣṇu or Śiva, and offers the answer that both are equally supreme: therefore surrender to their unified essence.

The Dance between Creation, Preservation, and Dissolution

The Hariharatāratamya also explores cosmic cycles, the perpetual dance between creation, preservation, and dissolution. Each verse references various episodes involving both Viṣṇu and Śiva, describing their divine feats and the roles they play in the grand cosmic scheme. Through these stories, the text illustrates the harmony between destruction and creation: without destruction, there can be no renewal or preservation.

Seeing Beyond External Distinctions

An important aspect of the text is its spiritual teaching that encourages the reader to see beyond external distinctions. The dualistic view of the world is seen as an illusion (māyā), and the text offers a vision of ultimate reality where distinctions between self and other, sacred and profane, are dissolved in the experience of ultimate unity.