The Yogini: A Comprehensive Overview

Historical Context and Origins

The term "Yogini" (Sanskrit: योगिनी, yoginī) refers to a female master practitioner of Tantra and Yoga, and is also a term of respect for female spiritual teachers in Hinduism and Buddhism, particularly in the Indian subcontinent and Greater Tibet [1]. The term is the feminine form of "yogi," and the term "yogin" is used in a neutral, masculine, or feminine sense [1].

The 64 Yoginis

According to Indologist David Gordon White, the earliest mentions of Yoginis appear in Indian literature in the sixth-century Hindu Agni Purana, with their roots in the Vedic tradition [2]. Their development reflects a synthesis of Vedic and classical Hindu elements, drawing from various sources including Vedic goddesses, celestial nymphs (Apsarasas), and local village goddesses (grama devatas) [2] [3]. The worship of Yoginis, particularly in groups, became well-established by the 10th century in both Hindu and Buddhist Tantra traditions [4].

Characteristics

From around the 10th century, Yoginis often appear in groups of 64 [17]. These Yoginis can be divine or human, and they are associated with various powers and practices [17].

Names and Associations

Yoginis are often associated with the divine feminine, and they can be seen as aspects of the goddess Devi [6]. They are often linked to the Bhairava, carrying tantric symbols and practicing in liminal spaces [18]. They are believed to possess siddhis (extraordinary powers), including the power of flight [19]. The archetypal Yogini is often described as "the autonomous Sky-traveller (khecari)" [22].

Temples

There is no universally agreed-upon list of the names of the 64 Yoginis, and different traditions offer varying lists [26]. Some lists include the Matrikas (mother goddesses) among the Yoginis, while others do not [26]. The Kalika Purana includes 16 Matrikas among the Yoginis, while the Agni Purana divides the Yoginis into 8 family groups, each led by a Matrika [27].

Practices

Yogini temples, often built between the 9th and 12th centuries, are found in various locations in India, such as Hirapur and Ranipur Jharial in Odisha, and Khajuraho, Bhedaghat, and Mataoli in Madhya Pradesh [31] [32] [34]. The iconographies of the Yogini statues vary across these temples [30].

Yoginis in Modern Context

Yogini worship, aimed at acquiring occult powers, involved rituals known as Mahayaga [36]. These rituals often took place in circular temples and involved offerings of wine, flesh, and blood [39]. Some temples depict Yoginis with symbols associated with corpse rituals, shava sadhana [40]. Maithuna (ritual sex) was also likely a part of the Mahayaga rituals, though there are no sculptures depicting it in Yogini temples [41].

The Yogini Mindset

The Yogini is a powerful symbol of feminine energy and strength, of empowerment and agency, and represents the ability of women to overcome societal limitations and realize their full potential [4].

In contemporary yoga, the term "Yogini" is often used to refer to a female yoga practitioner [2]. However, the term carries a rich history and a powerful charge of meanings, extending beyond the literal translation [2]. Modern interpretations of the Yogini emphasize a conscious lifestyle, embracing curiosity, flexibility, and a commitment to self-study [5].

Modern-Day Yogini

Living like a Yogini involves adopting a specific mindset, including:

• Eliminating deceit and embracing truth.
• Managing one's energy and releasing drama.
• Favoring abundance over lack [5].

The modern Yogini navigates the demands of work and life while prioritizing well-being and balance. This involves:

• Working hard and making time for play and rejuvenation.
• Recognizing and taking responsibility for one's needs.
• Creating rituals and habits that nourish the mind, body, and soul [5].