BODILESS CONSCIOUSNESS:-THE bases of this Yoga are of a highly metaphysical & scientific character. For its understanding there is required a full acquaintance with Indian philosophy, religious doctrine, & ritual in general, & in particular with that presentment of these three matters which is given in the Shakta & Monistic (Advaita) Shaiva Tantras. It would need more than a bulky volume to describe & explain in any detail the nature & meaning of this Yoga, & the bases on which it rests. I must, therefore, assume in the reader either this general knowledge or a desire to acquire it, & confine myself to such an exposition of general principles & leading facts as will supply the key by which the doors leading to a theoretical knowledge of the subject may be opened by those desirous of passing through & beyond them, & as will thus facilitate the understanding of the difficult texts here translated. For on the practical side I can merely reproduce the directions given in the books together with such explanations of them as I have received orally. Those who wish to go farther, & put into actual process this Yoga, must first satisfy themselves of the value & suitability of this Yoga & then learn directly of a Guru who has himself been through it (Siddha).