Gorakhnath and the Kanphata Yogis c8.2

c8.2

THE problem of the sub-sects of the Kānphaṭas and of the relation of their founders to Gorakhnāth is a difficult one to solve. Traditionally there are twelve sub-sects, each organized by a disciple of Gorakhnāth. But, while some of these sub-sects were formed soon after the death of Gorakhnāth, still others were later brought into line with the general scheme of the order. One, at least, of the sub-sects is often considered as but a half division and in some places is denied even such a place of respectability. But this sub-sect claims descent from Gorakhnāth. The whole number of sub-sects named in the various lists far exceeds twelve;¹ some names, however, are not those of major divisions, but of schools, or of individual gurus with a following, but belonging to some more comprehensive group.