In nondual Shaiva philosophy, nondualism generally means that Shiva, understood as ultimate consciousness, is not ultimately separate from the world or the deepest nature of the individual. The many forms of experience can be interpreted as manifestations of Shiva's power (Shakti) rather than as an entirely independent second reality. Some Pratyabhijna thinkers emphasise the world's genuine manifestation, not a simple dismissal of everything experienced as unreal.
This is not the position of every Shaiva school. Historical Shaiva Siddhanta systems often preserve a real distinction between Lord, individual souls and bonds. Nor should nondual Kashmir Shaivism automatically be treated as identical to Advaita Vedanta; their scriptures, arguments and accounts of manifestation differ. The word “nondual” must be tied to a named school when precision matters.