The Kamasutra, composed by the sage Vatsyayana between the 3rd and 5th centuries CE, is one of the world’s most well-known treatises on love, sexuality, and human relationships. Far beyond being a mere “manual of positions,” the Kamasutra is a philosophical and practical guide that integrates desire (kama) with ethics (dharma) and prosperity (artha). It views love as a holistic experience that combines physical intimacy, emotional connection, and spiritual understanding.
Among the many postures and embraces described in this text, the “Position of Equals” holds a distinctive place. This position is not just about physical technique but about a symbolic and literal equality between partners—something unique in ancient literature. It represents a union where neither partner dominates, but rather both contribute equally to the rhythm of lovemaking, the depth of intimacy, and the creation of mutual satisfaction.
This article explores the “Position of Equals” in depth—its historical context, physical dynamics, symbolic meaning, psychological dimensions, variations, and its continued relevance in modern intimacy.
Historical and Cultural Context
To appreciate the “Position of Equals,” one must situate it within the cultural and philosophical backdrop of ancient India. The Kamasutra does not reduce sexuality to reproduction or pleasure alone. Instead, it integrates the act of union into the larger fabric of human experience.
In patriarchal societies of the time, men often dominated sexual and social roles. Yet the Kamasutra acknowledges women as active participants, capable of desire, creativity, and control. The “Position of Equals” embodies this progressive stance, suggesting that both man and woman can meet each other as partners rather than master and subordinate.
The symbolic value of equality in this context is profound. It challenges rigid hierarchies and presents intimacy as a space of balance, cooperation, and reciprocity. Thus, this position is not only about physical arrangements but also about a philosophical outlook on relationships.
Physical Description of the Position
The “Position of Equals” can be described as follows:
Both partners sit facing each other, often cross-legged or in a comfortable seated posture.
They embrace and intertwine their legs, ensuring physical closeness and stability.
Penetration occurs in a way that neither partner is above or below; instead, they are on the same plane, eye to eye, chest to chest, lips within reach.
Movements are generated through mutual rocking, thrusting, or swaying, with both contributing effort.
The defining feature is that there is no imbalance of power—neither partner lies passively nor assumes dominant control. Instead, the act unfolds as a dance of equals, with eye contact, kisses, and caresses amplifying intimacy.
Symbolism of Equality
The symbolism of the “Position of Equals” resonates on multiple levels:
Physical Equality: Both partners share the same posture, same plane, and equal access to intimacy.
Emotional Equality: Eye contact and closeness foster deeper emotional bonding, allowing both to feel seen and valued.
Energetic Balance: According to tantric interpretations, this posture symbolizes the balance of masculine (Shiva) and feminine (Shakti) energies.
Social Commentary: It subtly critiques hierarchical structures by proposing that true union thrives in equality rather than domination.
This symbolism transcends physical union and extends into broader relational ethics—mutual respect, reciprocity, and partnership.
Psychological and Emotional Dimensions
The “Position of Equals” emphasizes more than physical pleasure. It fosters:
Eye-to-Eye Intimacy: Sustained gaze deepens trust and vulnerability, enhancing emotional closeness.
Mutual Pleasure: Because movements are shared, both partners can synchronize rhythms, ensuring that pleasure is not one-sided.
Empowerment: Women, in particular, find empowerment in this posture, as it rejects the passive roles often assigned to them historically.
Communication: The closeness and comfort of the posture facilitate whispered words, laughter, and emotional expressions.
Psychologically, this position affirms the value of shared experience rather than performance. It promotes mindfulness in intimacy, echoing the yogic traditions of presence and awareness.
Variations and Adaptations
Like many positions in the Kamasutra, the “Position of Equals” allows for variations:
Cross-Legged Sitting: Both sit cross-legged and interlock legs, creating a meditative yet intimate posture.
Extended Legs Facing Each Other: Both sit with legs extended and wrapped around one another, creating more room for movement.
Kneeling Equal Posture: Partners kneel facing each other and hold close, providing greater intensity.
Supported Sitting: Partners may lean against cushions or a wall for longer sessions, balancing comfort with intimacy.
Each variation retains the central principle: equality in posture, effort, and intimacy.
Physical Benefits
The posture is not only symbolic but also beneficial physically:
Balanced Effort: No single partner bears the weight or strain; effort is distributed.
Close Proximity: Chest-to-chest contact enhances oxytocin release, the bonding hormone.
Strength and Flexibility: Sitting positions engage core muscles and hip flexibility, supporting physical health.
Gentle Stimulation: The equal thrusting and rocking provide a tender, less aggressive form of lovemaking.
This makes it suitable for couples seeking slower, more affectionate intimacy rather than athletic or strenuous positions.
Tantric Interpretations
Tantric traditions often intersect with the Kamasutra, and the “Position of Equals” aligns beautifully with tantric philosophy.
Union of Shiva and Shakti: The posture symbolizes the cosmic balance of masculine and feminine energies.
Chakra Alignment: Sitting face to face aligns heart and throat chakras, enhancing emotional expression.
Breath Synchronization: Partners can synchronize breathing, fostering unity and meditative states.
Sacred Equality: Tantra teaches that both energies are essential; this posture reflects that balance.
In this sense, the “Position of Equals” is more than sexual—it becomes spiritual.
Comparisons with Other Kamasutra Positions
The Kamasutra describes positions that range from male-dominant (e.g., the “pressed position”) to female-dominant (e.g., “woman on top”). The “Position of Equals” stands apart as:
Neither Dominant nor Submissive: Unlike other positions, equality is its defining trait.
Sustained Intimacy: It emphasizes closeness, eye contact, and shared rhythm rather than acrobatics.
Symbolic Depth: Its meaning transcends the physical to touch upon equality in relationships.
This unique quality makes it one of the most modern-seeming positions in the Kamasutra.
Relevance in Modern Relationships
In today’s world, where conversations about equality in relationships are central, the “Position of Equals” has renewed relevance.
Gender Equality: It reflects the values of partnership, where both partners are active contributors.
Mindful Intimacy: Modern couples increasingly seek emotional connection, not just physical satisfaction. This posture aligns with that trend.
Counter to Performance Culture: In a world of unrealistic expectations about sex, this posture restores authenticity, presence, and shared joy.
Therapeutic Use: Sex therapists sometimes recommend positions that encourage intimacy and communication—qualities embodied here.
Thus, this ancient teaching aligns seamlessly with contemporary values of respect, equality, and partnership.
Challenges and Considerations
While beneficial, the position may present challenges:
Flexibility: Some couples may find sitting cross-legged difficult. Adaptations can help.
Balance: Synchronizing movements requires patience and cooperation.
Comfort: Prolonged sitting may strain hips or knees; cushions or yoga mats can improve comfort.
Overcoming these challenges is part of the process, reinforcing the idea that intimacy is about communication and adaptation.
Literary and Artistic Representations
In ancient temple art and sculptures, one can find depictions resembling the “Position of Equals.” These are often interpreted as symbols of harmony and balance between the sexes. Literary references in later texts also emphasize equality in union, indicating that this concept held a long-lasting cultural appeal.
