Maithuna is a term in Sanskrit. In ritual context, it is translated as ‘sexual union’. Maithuna is derived from a Sanskrit word ‘Mithuna’ which means a couple. It is often used in Tantra. Out of the five Makara, one of the most significant ones is Maithuna. It forms an important part of the Grand Ritual of Tantra which is known variously as Tattva Chakra, Panchatattva and Panchamakara.
Maithuna is a word clearly having reference to male-female couples, mature cleansing, the union of male and female in the sexual and physical sense. It is considered to be purely a symbolic and mental act by few schools, sects and writers, though. When there is consecration of union, Maithuna proves to be effective. While the male is Shiva, the female is Shakti and the couple attains divinity in union. Through union, ultimate experiences and reality is confronted by both of them. The union does not attain completion if there is no spiritual transformation, as indicated by the scriptures. The union can occur on a metaphysical plane as well where their subtle bodies transfer the Shakta and Shakti energies via diminished egos and in the process face ultimate experiences and reality through their union.
Temples such as the Konark Sun Temple and Khajuraho temples feature couples entwined amorously with each other. Gemini the zodiac sign also has a figure of twins (woman and man) that represent Maithuna.
