The Goddess within and Beyond the Three Cities

Jeffrey S. Lidke's 'The Goddess within and Beyond the Three Cities' offers a detailed analysis of Sarvamnaya Sakta Tantra in Nepal. Drawing from two decades of research, Lidke combines ancient primary sources with the living interpretations of contemporary Nepalese practitioners, focusing on the Sri Vidya tradition, the deity Tripurasundari, and the text Nitytasikarnava within the Kathmandu Valley.This study contextualizes Sarvamnaya Sakta Tantra within Nepal's unique historical and sociocultural landscape, demonstrating that it is a dynamic, place-specific tradition shaped by local power negotiations rather than a static, universal concept.Why You Should Read? Explores Sarvamnaya Sakta Tantra through a unique blend of textual study and live practice. Provides an in-depth look at the Sri Vidya tradition and the deity Tripurasundari. Contextualizes Tantric traditions within Nepal's specific historical and sociocultural landscape. Challenges universalized views of Tantra by showcasing its dynamic, place-specific manifestations.