The Supreme Self is the nondual state of Absolute Reality in either or both It's Manifest and Unmanifest modes. At this state there is no self at all, only the Supreme in all. Thus, when this is called the Supreme Self, the "self" in question is the Supreme Godhead or Absolute, not the individual self.

There are a number of aspects or Poises of the Godhead or Absolute beyond the expanded individual level of existence.  In order from manifest Godhead to transcendent Absolute these are as follows:

 (1) In the Shakti-tattwa stage of Universal Consciousness that proceeds this cosmic movement to manifestation, the separation into Shiva and Shakti polarities has not yet occurred.  The entire universe is still contained within the consciousness of Shiva (the Supreme Self).  This constitutes the Positive or Everything Pole of existence.

 (2) Beyond this, in the Shiva-tattwa Manifest Absolute or Transcendent Consciousness there there is the first movement to manifestation within the Absolute.

 (3) Finally, beyond even this, the Supreme Absolute Consciousness, which in Tantra is termed Parasamvit ("Supreme Consciousness") or Paramashiva ("Supreme Godhead"), corresponds to the Absolute of Infinite Potency.  This contains both the Shiva and Shakti aspects in total Unmanifest unity and equilibrium.

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