Your Inspirational World Die/s Every Minute You Dont Read This Article: meditation
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Showing posts with label meditation. Show all posts
Showing posts with label meditation. Show all posts

Thursday, November 07, 2019

Narmada Shivling - नर्मदा शिवलिंग

Thursday, November 07, 2019 0
Narmada Shivling  - नर्मदा शिवलिंग

 Narmada Shivling  - नर्मदा शिवलिंग

It is a smooth ellipsoid stone. Banalinga is also called the Svayambhu Linga: (Sanskrit) "Self-existent mark or sign of God", as it is discovered in nature and not carved or crafted by human hands. 

 The Narmada Shivling are quite strong and the hardness is a 7 on the Mohs scale.

 

Narmada Stone are Swayambhu Shiva Lingas that have taken shape in the Sacred Narmada River. Sri Shiva Banalingams Blessings at your own home, healing place, meditation space, work place, Business Place, Corporate Houses. Narmada Lingam will bring and maintain peace and harmony. The Narmada Shivling is a most sacred symbol and divine energy tool, Enhanced Positive energy will be invoked in theplace where there is Banalingam of NarmadhaShiv Linga is holy symbol of Lord Shiva that is considered sacred by the devotees of Lord Shiva.'Lingum'in Sanskrit means, 'symbol'. Shiva Linga, therefore means symbol of Lord Shiva and is therefore considered most sacred.

Sunday, July 26, 2015

SEX AND SPIRITUALITY, Healing With Sexual Energy

Sunday, July 26, 2015 0
SEX AND SPIRITUALITY, Healing With Sexual Energy

SEX AND SPIRITUALITY

 Sexuality is closely related to spirituality in several ways. In its negative aspects of lust, sexual excess, degradation and rape, it appears as the antithesis of spirituality, and in this light it has been seen in the Christian tradition. However, in its positive aspects our sexuality can open our heart to love, and enable us to have experiences similar to meditative states and mystical bliss during or instead of an orgasm and its afterglow. In a less obvious way, sexual energies can be channeled upward to develop our energy centers or chakra system and higher energy bodies. According to esoteric and yoga teachings, this is all part of our spiritual evolution.

By Walter Last

Sexuality is closely related to spirituality in several ways. In its negative aspects of lust, sexual excess, degradation and rape, it appears as the antithesis of spirituality, and in this light it has been seen in the Christian tradition. However, in its positive aspects our sexuality can open our heart to love, and enable us to have experiences similar to meditative states and mystical bliss during or instead of an orgasm and its afterglow. In a less obvious way, sexual energies can be channeled upward to develop our energy centers or chakra system and higher energy bodies. According to esoteric and yoga teachings, this is all part of our spiritual evolution.

The idea of celibacy for priests, nuns and monks is to spiritualize sexual energies as in meditation, rituals and other devotional practices. While this generally involves conscious exercises as in yoga, Christian mystics commonly transformed their energies without conscious awareness through intense devotion. If religious celibates fight to suppress their sexuality, they misunderstand the deeper reason for the practice of celibacy, and block their spiritual evolution on that level. If devotional practices do not lead to the transmutation of sexual energies then it is much better to find a natural outlet. Suppression always leads to problems. 

There are hundreds of different Tantric, Taoist, yogic and meditation techniques to transform sexual energy into kundalinior spiritual energy. Sexual energy is a denser part of our general life force energy, which can be liberated as kundalini energy and led upwards. Its ultimate purpose is to facilitate spiritual growth by developing our chakra system and higher energy bodies. 

What is Spirituality?

In this context ‘spirituality’ means to me an effort to speed up our evolution of consciousness, which then becomes manifest in the functions of our energy bodies and the formation of higher energy bodies. I see the next stage in the spiritual evolution of humanity as forming a society based on cooperation, love and compassion. In some way this is a high ideal of all religions, but especially expressed in Buddhism and Christianity. Love and compassion are the expressions of an opened heart center. Therefore the practice of Karezza is especially relevant at this time. 

Tantric, Taoist and yogic methods try to go further by fast developing the whole chakra system and a higher energy body, which Taoists call the immortal body, and which may correspond to the light body of New Age philosophy. However, apart from achieving various temporary states of bliss and psychic happenings, few seem to be really successful in this way and also so-called brain or spiritual orgasms may still be related to dopamine activity. 

Tantra and KundaliniYoga

Tantra and kundalini yoga originate from the Hindu tradition. Both methods aim to lead sexual energy upwards, Tantra in ritualized male-female interaction, and kundalini yoga in strict individual practice; both methods entail semen retention. As a reward there may be a brain orgasm and various states of blissful conditions. Traditionally Tantra was seen and used as a method to enable men to achieve enlightenment, while women were only used as tools, even if they were ritually worshipped as Goddesses. This has changed in modern western practices where women are now complete equals of men.

I see the main problem with these methods as being one-way streets of energy flow from the base of the spine to the top. This tends to lead to unbalanced development by over-stimulating the head centers at the expense of the heart center. Furthermore drawing up too much sexual energy may in time deplete overall vitality. Also I am not impressed with the abilities of practitioners of these systems to rejuvenate. 

There is probably no problem with these methods for beginners, but various reports indicate problems may result from continued over-stimulation of the brain. This seems to be increasingly acknowledged by modern Tantra and kundalini practitioners who now have added the Microcosmic Orbit to their practices. For an interesting overview of the modern Tantra, kundaliniand Tao scene see The Quest for Spiritual Orgasm by Michael Winn (http://www.healingtaobritain.com/p67magazinequestforspiritualorgasm.htm).

Enlightenment is in the Vagina

You may think I try to be cheeky or provocative with the statement: ”Enlightenment is in the vagina”, but this is one of the authenticated sayings of the Buddha, and it leaves us with the problem of how to understand or interpret this. It seems to turn our usual understanding of enlightenment on its head. 

The actual phrase in Sanscrit is: "Buddhatvam Yosityonisamasritam."  This may also be translated as: ”Enlightenment is in the female sexual organ(s)”. This same view is expressed in various sacred Tantric texts. There appears to be much hidden sexual activity involving female consorts in some Tibetan Buddhist Sects. Western Buddhists, on the other hand, apparently do not know what to make of this saying, and therefore tend to ignore it, although I know of one Western Buddhist in Thailand who took this to mean that lots of intoxicating orgasmic sex is the road to enlightenment. But there is also another Buddhist saying that refers to orgasms as killing the inner Buddha.

My understanding of the first saying is that it refers to female sexual energy which is required for a male monk to become androgynic, meaning that male and female energies become balanced in an individual. This may be achieved by dual cultivation as with Tantra or having a female consort, or by single cultivation as with energy meditation. This is really the same process that we also see in Taoist practices and in the Gnostic Gospels. It has nothing to do with surgical or hormonal gender changes. The second saying simply means that by wasting our sexual energy with orgasms we do not have enough left over for enlightenment. 

In the eight century, a female Buddha, Lady Yeshe Tsogyel, achieved enlightenment through mutual Tantric practice. She explains that women must control their sexual energies just like men need to control their ejaculation if they would cultivate spiritual enlightenment. 

“If there is leakage of sexual energy, the Buddha Unchanging Light is slain...Therefore, with the power of retraction, drawing up 'love' with the base energy of life-force, I held it in the pot of my belly, and maintaining the recollection of pleasure uncontaminated by lust, divesting myself of mind-created Samadhi, yet not slipping into an instant of torpor, I experienced the ascent of Awareness.”

This passage explains in beautiful simplicity the process of Taoist internal alchemy: produce a feeling of sexual pleasure, draw this feeling from the sexual organs into the abdomen, continue to increase it with mindfulness, and at the same time lead the feeling of meditative bliss from the head into the abdomen. Energy flow then follows the feelings. In the abdomen the heavenly or male energy from the head centers interacts or copulates with the female earth energy of the sexual and base centers. 

The ultimate goal of Taoist energy cultivation is the formation of an immortal body. This is not a physical body but a higher energy body, a light body. In the same way as in esoteric Buddhist practice this is achieved by combining male and female sexual energies so that the practitioner becomes androgynic. This takes place initially in the area behind the navel where the converted sex energy has been accumulated by practicing the Microcosmic Orbit or an equivalent method.  

Our major male-female poles are at the top and the bottom of the spine. This is like an energy axis between two spinning vortices with a secondary male-female split between the right and left side of our body. The internal alchemy or inner copulation of these poles then creates the divine child or immortal light body. To be successful we need not only a strong sexual pole but also a strong crown or heavenly pole formed by regular meditation and a spiritual attitude.

Lao Tzu explained the immortal light body thus: It is self-aware yet without ego, capable of inhabiting a biological body yet not attached to it, and guided by wisdom rather than emotion. Whole and virtuous, it can never die.

However, Edgar Cayce warned that if you raise the kundalinibefore you can control your sexual energy it simply inflames your sexual desire and causes problems on your spiritual path. As a general advice this means practice Karezza or the Microcosmic Orbit until you can use your sexual energy without being confronted with uncontrollable desires.  

The Sacrament of the Bridal Chamber

A similar picture emerges from the Gnostic Gospels. Apparently these gospels by the disciples of Jesus have been rejected by the official Christian churches because they imply that Jesus had secret teachings for his disciples. These teachings seem to have been the basis of Jewish Christianity under the leadership of James the Just, but were lost with the destruction of Jerusalem by the Romans.  Western Christianity is based on the doctrines of Paul who did not know Jesus personally and therefore did not receive these teachings. Most great spiritual teachers reserved advanced teachings for those who could understand them. So we read in the Gospel of Thomas:

 (22) "When you make the two into one, and when you make the inner like the outer and the outer like the inner, and the upper like the lower, and when you make male and female into a single one, so that the male will not be male nor the female be female, ….. then you will enter (the kingdom).”

This basically says that we must become androgynic to enter the kingdom of heaven. There is no chance that the general public would have understood this. Also consider the following:

(114) Simon Peter said to him, "Let Mary leave us, for women are not worthy of (eternal) life."
Jesus said, "I myself shall lead her in order to make her male, so that she too may become a living spirit resembling you males. For every woman who will make herself male will enter the kingdom of heaven." 

This, too, refers to androgyny. The means to achieve this is the Sacrament of the Bridal Chamber. It is alluded to in various Gnostic Gospels. Jesus taught various sacraments, the Gospel of Philip, states that there were the holy baptism, the holier atonement, and the "holy of the holies," the sacrament of the bridal chamber, in which participants "put on the light" or "chrism" and return to oneness. Androgyny is also a central part of other religions where deities in Taoist, Hindu and Buddhist art are often shown as part male and part female.

There are no direct descriptions of the Sacrament of the Bridal Chamber, but it is clothed in sexual symbology and seems to have been practiced as a sacred male-female union without orgasm, also described as pure embrace or undefiled intercourse. Possibly both methods were used as in Tao and Kundalini-Tantra practices. Dual cultivation appears to be by far easier for equalizing male and female energies. However, there is also the following description which may indicate single cultivation:

Epiphanius mentions a Gnostic writing called "The Great Questions of Mary" where Jesus gave Mary Magdalene a revelation on a mountain. According to this Jesus produced forth a woman from his side, akin to the generation of Eve in the Garden of Genesis. Jesus had sex with her, and then consumed his own semen. (novusordoseclorum-oai.org/documents/magdalene.htm). 

This description is interesting as not only the mythical Eve was created in this way from the androgynic Adam, and together they populated the world, but also in Hindu mythology Shiva produced his consort in the same way and they then copulated to produce the world. All of these describe a male-female split of the divine androgyne, and the sexual union of both parts then produced an immortal light body, the human race, or the world. 

It is clear that descriptions of secret teachings such as the above are disguised so that only the initiated understand the true meaning. From what we know now we may assume that Jesus demonstrated to Mary how to focus sexual energy into a male and female energy pole, and then unite these polarized energies to create a higher energy body. The swallowing of semen could be symbolic for retaining his seed and actually not ejaculating. However there was apparently a long tradition in ancient religions, including Gnostics and possibly early Christianity, to swallow one's semen for ritual purpose. This is called semenatophagy, for more information see http://sacredsemen.com/.

Here a final quote from the Gospel of Philip: “If anyone becomes a son of the bridal chamber, he will receive the light. If anyone does not receive it while he is here, he will not be able to receive it in the other place. He who will receive that light will not be seen, nor can he be detained. And none shall be able to torment a person like this, even while he dwells in the world.”

According to the Gnostic Gospels the main purpose of Jesus was to teach eternal life by re-creating the divine androgyne, and thus overcoming the separation of the sexes in the Sacrament of the Bridal Chamber. Being born again in this way with an immortal light body, any successful follower was no longer a Christian but became a Christ (Gospel of Philip). The real significance of the crucifixion and the crowning achievement of his life was the reappearance of Jesus and his continued teaching in the materialized form of his immortal light body. This was to demonstrate to his followers the truth of his teachings about the divine androgyne and the eternal life. Therefore, the real basis of the teachings of Jesus is sacred sexuality, the same in Buddhist, Hindu and Taoist teachings. 

 

Thursday, May 29, 2008

Laughing Theraphy - Laughing is an excellent way to reduce stress in our lives.

Thursday, May 29, 2008 0
Laughing Theraphy - Laughing is an excellent way to reduce stress in our lives.

Laughing Therapy 

A type of therapy that uses humor to help relieve pain and stress and improve a person's sense of well-being. ... Laughter therapy may include laughter exercises, clowns, and comedy movies, books, games, and puzzles. It is a type of complementary therapy. Also called humor therapy.

Laughing is an excellent way to reduce stress in our lives. Learn about Laughter Therapy and Laughter Yoga as fun and alternative ways to reduce stress.

Laughing Theraphy - Laughing is an excellent way to reduce stress in our lives

Patients, doctors and health-care professionals are all finding that laughter may indeed be the best medicine.

Laughing is found to lower blood pressure, reduce stress hormones, increase muscle flexion, and boost immune function by raising levels of infection-fighting T-cells, disease-fighting proteins called Gamma-interferon and B-cells, which produce disease-destroying antibodies. Laughter also triggers the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, and produces a general sense of well-being.

Therapeutic Benefits of Laughter

Laughter is infectious. Hospitals around the country are incorporating formal and informal laughter therapy programs into their therapeutic regimens. In countries such as India, laughing clubs -- in which participants gather in the early morning for the sole purpose of laughing -- are becoming as popular as Rotary Clubs in the United States.

Humor is a universal language. It's a contagious emotion and a natural diversion. It brings other people in and breaks down barriers. Best of all it is free and has no known side reactions.

Therapeutic Benefits of Laughter

Dr. Lee Berk and fellow researcher Dr. Stanley Tan of Loma Linda University in California have been studying the effects of laughter on the immune system. To date their published studies have shown that laughing lowers blood pressure, reduces stress hormones, increases muscle flexion, and boosts immune function by raising levels of infection-fighting T-cells, disease-fighting proteins called Gamma-interferon and B-cells, which produce disease-destroying antibodies. Laughter also triggers the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, and produces a general sense of well-being.

Following is a summary of his research, taken from an interview published in the September/October 1996 issue of the Humor and Health Journal.

Laughter Activates the Immune System

In Berk's study, the physiological response produced by belly laughter was opposite of what is seen in classical stress, supporting the conclusion that mirthful laughter is a eustress state -- a state that produces healthy or positive emotions.

Research results indicate that, after exposure to humor, there is a general increase in activity within the immune system, including:

  • An increase in the number and activity level of natural killer cells that attack viral infected cells and some types of cancer and tumor cells.

  • An increase in activated T cells (T lymphocytes). There are many T cells that await activation. Laughter appears to tell the immune system to "turn it up a notch."

  • An increase in the antibody IgA (immunoglobulin A), which fights upper respiratory tract insults and infections.

  • An increase in gamma interferon, which tells various components of the immune system to "turn on."

  • An increase in IgB, the immunoglobulin produced in the greatest quantity in body, as well as an increase in Complement 3, which helps antibodies to pierce dysfunctional or infected cells. The increase in both substances was not only present while subjects watched a humor video; there also was a lingering effect that continued to show increased levels the next day.

Laughter Decreases "Stress" Hormones

The results of the study also supported research indicating a general decrease in stress hormones that constrict blood vessels and suppress immune activity. These were shown to decrease in the study group exposed to humor.

For example, levels of epinephrine were lower in the group both in anticipation of humor and after exposure to humor. Epinephrine levels remained down throughout the experiment.

In addition, dopamine levels (as measured by dopac) were also decreased. Dopamine is involved in the "fight or flight response" and is associated with elevated blood pressure.

Laughing is aerobic, providing a workout for the diaphragm and increasing the body's ability to use oxygen.

Laughter brings in positive emotions that can enhance – not replace -- conventional treatments. Hence it is another tool available to help fight the disease.

Experts believe that, when used as an adjunct to conventional care, laughter can reduce pain and aid the healing process. For one thing, laughter offers a powerful distraction from pain.

In a study published in the Journal of Holistic Nursing, patients were told one-liners after surgery and before painful medication was administered. Those exposed to humor perceived less pain when compared to patients who didn't get a dose of humor as part of their therapy.

Perhaps, the biggest benefit of laughter is that it is free and has no known negative side effects.

So, here is a summary of how humor contributes to physical health. More details can be found in the article, Humor and Health contributed by Paul McGhee

Muscle Relaxation - Belly laugh results in muscle relaxation. While you laugh, the muscles that do not participate in the belly laugh, relaxes. After you finish laughing those muscles involved in the laughter start to relax. So, the action takes place in two stages.

Reduction of Stress Hormones - Laughter reduces at least four of neuroendocrine hormones associated with stress response. These are epinephrine, cortisol, dopac, and growth hormone.

Immune System Enhancement - Clinical studies have shown that humor strengthens the immune system.

Pain Reduction - Humor allows a person to "forget" about pains such as aches, arthritis, etc.

Cardiac Exercise - A belly laugh is equivalent to "an internal jogging." Laughter can provide good cardiac conditioning especially for those who are unable to perform physical exercises.

Blood Pressure - Women seem to benefit more than men in preventing hypertension.

Respiration - Frequent belly laughter empties your lungs of more air than it takes in resulting in a cleansing effect - similar to deep breathing. Especially beneficial for patient's who are suffering from emphysema and other respiratory ailments.

Laugh Your Way to Enlightenment!

Happiness is our essential nature.

Rather than waiting for external events to determine our happiness, we can find it deep inside ourselves. Perhaps we think we have to be relaxed and calm, or that all sorts of conditions must exist for us to be happy. This is not the case; happiness can exist for no reason. The more we practice smiling, laughing and enjoying ourselves for no reason, the more we will discover that we already have what we seek.

Many of us know that laughter is good for us, but we might feel that we have nothing to laugh about; we may feel more like crying. The second stage of The Mystic Rose can help us to release and heal old wounds, unburden sorrows and discover deep peace within.

So try some laughter techniques, but be kind and gentle with yourself. And remember: If you are in the midst of a difficult time in your life, commit an equal amount of time to allow your sadness to exist. The balanced awareness and expression of both of these energies will bring you to a deeper harmony and peace within yourself.

The Benefits

Laughter is good for us in every way as several studies have shown. (See, for example, articles by N. Lehrman in Archives of Internal Medicine, April 26,1993; by Lee Berk, Dr. P.H. in Loma Linda University School of Medicine News, March 11,1999; by N.Silver in American Health, November 1986; by J. McCormick in Lancet, August 1994. Among these findings:

  • Laughter stimulates physical healing.

  • Laughter enhances our creativity.

  • Laughter is rejuvenating and regenerating.

  • Laughter is sexy.

  • Laughter is good for relationships.

  • Laughter opens the heart.
  • Laughter gives us a glimpse of freedom from the mind.

The Laughter Meditation

When you wake up in the morning, stretch your body-every muscle, cell and fiber-just like a cat. After a few moments, start laughing. Just start. At the beginning you may have to force it a little, saying 'Ha, Ha, Ha,' or 'Ho, Ho, Ho' to get the laughter energy moving. Soon, a spontaneous laughter will arise at the sound of your attempts at laughing. Try it for five minutes. Just laugh for no reason at all. Laugh for the sake of laughing.

Try it again for five minutes when you go to bed, just before you go to sleep. Try it in the shower or while driving your car in traffic. Ha, Ha, Ha. Even to say those words out loud will start a transformation in your energy, in your mood.

At the beginning, it will take some effort; you might want to use a laughter CD to help you get started. After a little while, it will start to happen naturally. Your body will get used to it, will start to expect it.

Laughter is one of the easiest ways to free yourself from the mind's constant thought process and find inner peace. It will make you more alive, more healthy, more creative, and more silent. Simply relax into the enjoyment. You will discover in yourself a tremendous natural talent for rejoicing in life. You may even laugh your way to enlightenment. Yes, it's that good. Remember to laugh-a lot-every day.

Essences of Name

Thursday, May 29, 2008 0
Essences of Name

THE ESSENCES

Essences of Name

An additional cycle used in numerology is associated with the name rather than the birth date. This timing method uses the letters in the name in what might be called transits of the name, to arrive at this important cycle information that is called the Essences. The transit begins at birth with the first letter of your first name, the first letter of your middle name, and the first letter of your last name, their values totaled, defining the tone of the year from birth to age one. Then we will go on with these transits finding the Essence of each year of the life.

You'll need to recall those letter values, so here is chart for easy reference:

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
-

You must place the letters of your name on this worksheet. Begin with the first letter of your first name. Each letter in this name will last a number of years (from 1 to 9) depending on its numerology number designation. Thus, if the first name was David, a D would be placed under the F (for First Name) column on each of the first 4 years or rows. The value of D is 4. The next year (row) would get a single A, then V for 4 years, I for the next 9, and finally, the last D for the next 4. This would fill the F column for the first 21 years. Then, you would start over and repeat the process using this first name. If you were going to progress the chart through age 60, a third set of the letter in David would be used which would actually progress the chart (under the letter F) to age 63.

Next, you would follow this procedure under the M for middle name. In my chart the name Michael would have the first 4 years filled with the letter M, the 9 years of I, 3 of C, 8 of H, 1 A, 5 Es, and 3 Ls. Since there are 33 years filled with this name, only two sets would be used to progress the middle name past age 60.

Finally, the last name would be set in using the same process.

After the name has been set on the chart in this fashion, the next task is to fill in the 'Letter Value' column. For the name David Michael McClain, the first year would show D M M each having a value of 4. So 4 would be placed under F, M, and L. This process would be followed for each year.

Under the column entitled 'essence of transit', total the letter value (for the first, middle and last name letters) for each year, and show the single digit or master number which is derived from this total. This is the Essence for the year (birthday to birthday).

Here are readings for each Essence:

1 Essence

The Essence of the number 1 signals a time when you are developing new ideas and enlarging on projects that have been around for a while. This will be a period that will bring the opportunity for marked increase in your personal status and recognition. This Essence is often an opportunity to turn a life-long avocation into a money-making vocation. Many new friends and business associations are likely now. Your status in the world may grow, and you may get some recognition for your achievements. One thing may lead to another and you may find many alterations in your life during this essence.

if this essence remains in effect for 3 years or more...

Because this Essence is in effect for such a long period of time, its meaning with regard to change is somewhat confusing. In some cases, this foretells of a series of dramatic ongoing changes, or one considerable change with many years between the beginning and the finale of the alteration.

with a 1 personal year...

The effects of this Essence in a number 1 Personal Year are greatly amplified. It will be very hard for you to choose between the opportunities during this period. You are apt to run into some frustrating situations. You need to be prepared to make careful choices now with an eye on the future value of decisions as opposed to what feels good at the moment.

2 Essence

The Essence of the number 2 is a cycle when everything seems to be consolidating and this is decidedly a period of growth. But often the growth is not without reversals, and there is much emphasis on cooperation and patience. You may find yourself developing relationships, or trying very hard to develop a good relationship. You will likely find yourself working with and hopefully helping others. Conversely, you can expect to get much help from others now. This is apt to be a period of slow development, delays, roadblocks, and obstacles, and the period can be one of great frustration for you in certain ways. There can be a lot of emotions associated with the 2 Essence, and you may become much more sensitive now. Lowered energy and vitality may be experienced throughout the cycle. Confrontations are difficult now, but often necessary.

if this essence remains in effect for 3 years or more...

The 2 Essence remaining in your lifepath for a lengthy period may produce nervous tension due to prolonged high emotions and/or deep frustration due to the delays and problems encountered.

with a 2 personal year...

When this Essence is in effect during a number 2 personal year, emotional conflicts may heighten the tension, upset the sensitivity, and even affect the health. Self-control and a disciplined approach can help maintain a harmonious balance. Plan to move forward slowly, despite periodic detours.

3 Essence

The Essence of the number 3 is a very special time when you feel and experience the joy of living to its utmost. This is a very enjoyable time in your life. You are apt to be making a lot of new friends and renewing old friendships. This is a time for love affairs and expanding the social circle; many activities and good times. You are likely to travel a good bit during this Essence.

The other factor that is associated with the Essence of 3 is that of expression. This is a very good time for you to be interested in the development of creative work, particularly works that involve words...singing, acting, writing. This should be a busy time advancing your talents with classes or study, or for starting or expanding business ventures involving creative endeavors.

Optimism is the operative word for this cycle. This is a very pleasant period, but you must beware of a tendency now to scatter your energies.

when the period extends for 3 years or more...

This long period may allow a significant creative development in a positive and happy time of your life.

3 Essence with 3 Personal year...

Since you are enjoying this three Essence along with a 3 personal year, you may have a great deal of difficulty maintaining your sense of self-discipline. Having too much fun can be a long term mistake. Likewise, this is probably to be a very restless time for you as you may be on the go a great deal.

4 Essence

During this number 4 Essence the events and opportunities coming your way will emphasize a more serious tone. This is a time to buckle down and put the affairs of your life in order. Your attention is apt to be drawn to more practical interests such as dealing with financial matters and your work. The development of opportunities in your life now requires a practical and realistic view along with a lot of hard work, effort, determination and discipline. In many ways you are apt to feel a sense of restriction in your life for a while and you may face some setbacks as the pace of progress slows somewhat. This is a building time and the building is sometimes painfully slow.

if this essence is in effect for 3 years or more...

Since the 4 essence is with you for several years, this period is apt to feel like a never ending struggle. Yet significant gains or accomplishments may be the reward for your hard work and determination during this essence.

with personal year 4...

Since this Essence accompanies a personal year number 4, the feelings of being in a rut are not uncommon. The repressive conditions may be in your mind more than in the work at hand, but the feeling will be there just the same. Be objective about the obstacles you really face because it may be that they are not as formidable as you think.

5 Essence

With the Essence of the number 5 you will find that the events and opportunities coming your way will emphasize freedom and change. Your experiences during this cycle will be sudden, unusual, and unexpected, and you are apt to be dealing with constantly changing circumstances and activities. The ventures in your life now will stress progress, new ideas, and probably new friends. Travel is very likely. There should be a caution here to avoid tendencies to go off in every direction and scatter your forces. Choose your opportunities carefully and thoughtfully. Freedom is great, but be sure to use it in constructive ways that help others and yourself.

period of 5 Essence for 3 or more years

A long period of 5 Essence suggests that it is apt to be a very free-wheeling period. Unless some self-discipline is exercised, most of the energy is likely to be scattered with little accomplishment. If this scattering occurs, there may be feelings of deep frustration.

the 5 essence during a 5 personal year...

This may be a period when you are too free-wheeling and unrestrained. Constant change is not always constant growth and development. Try to maintain a balanced and thoughtful approach to problems and opportunities. Control self-centered interests.

6 Essence

The 6 Essence focuses circumstances and opportunities on the home, the family, and largely on domestic matters. This time is associated with responsibility, but usually the job is close to home or involving those nearest to you, including your close friends. If you are single, this Essence is a very good time for marriage; if married, this is a good time for your marriage. It is a good time to surface any problems that may exist in the marriage and deal with them before they become more serious. This is also a time for children, and it may be a time to have a child. The 6 essence also may and often does involve you in service to your community in some way; assuming responsibility for those outside your immediate family. This is more common if you are older and the need for your services in the immediate family is not apparent.

if 6 essence extends for three years or longer

The idea of intense responsibility is very much a part of your life during this period. Ideally, you will accept responsibilities and thrive in its execution. Resistance to duty now may impart a sense of suppression or isolation. On the other hand, if you meet challenges now, you are apt to become handsomely repaid with love and the devotion of those close to you.

The 6 essence during a 6 personal year

Responsibilities may never seem greater, but the rewards for accepting obligations and meeting the test may never be greater either. This is a year when feeling emotions and sharing them with someone close to you can help the family or community grow stronger and more cohesive. This may be a time when the size of your family grows larger.


7 Essence

During the essence of the number 7, many of the events in your life now will often involve study, a sense of isolation, and an inwardly focused attitude toward yourself. A time of looking for an understanding of fundamentals and pursuing new interests has arrived. You are likely to find yourself withdrawing for a time of reflection and perhaps even meditation, hopefully comfortable with a chance for repose.

When the 7 essence is in effect for 3 years or more...

Since the 7 essence is to be with you for a while, look forward to a time of internality and spiritual growth. You may grow away from others and become much more introspective.

When the 7 essences is joined by a 7 personal year

This can be a period when you become very moody and withdrawn. You may have to force yourself to be social because this seems like an aspect of life that is not important now. While you may actually enjoy your solitude, guard against signs of depression.

8 Essence

The number 8 essence suggests that the trend of events will be pointed toward getting ahead in a material sense and basically taking care of business. This essence normally marks a period when the business and professional reputation is enhanced and ripens. You are apt to reap financial gain now, building or expanding current ventures. Common sense and good judgments will help you achieve goals and make some real progress. This is apt to be a period when you work very hard.

for periods of 8 Essence exceeding 3 years...

This long period 8 essence may be an indication that you are very focused on issues of the career, power, and status. You may have to be reminded to stop occasionally to "smell the roses."

8 Essence with 8 Personal Year

When the 8 essence is joined by an 8 personal year, the stress of you devotion to "getting ahead" can be great. While this is an important period for you relative to the career, your power and status, it is also a time that can take a toll on other aspects of your life.

9 Essence

With the Essence of the number 9 life will tend to have a very dramatic or emotional flair. Your feelings and reactions to events will be very acute. Often this Essence denotes the ending to a significant endeavor, and a marked change in interests of some kind. Usually, additional freedom is a byproduct of the concluding affair. If you are single, there is likely to be an intense or emotional romance. Frequently, this Essence shows involvement with humanitarian endeavors are a constant during the essence period. Endings now may lead to a more useful life.

for periods of 9 Essence exceeding 3 years...

The fact that this is such a long period of 9 essence suggests that it is apt to be a very extended period of passionate feelings, a long drawn out love affair with a prolonged ending, or perhaps a sustained effort of some sort.

when the 9 Essence is coupled with a 9 personal year....

This may be an emotionally draining year which completions coming only with great difficulty. Clear thinking will be difficult but it is a must.

LIFEPATH PERIODS

Thursday, May 29, 2008 0
LIFEPATH PERIODS

THE LIFE PATH PERIODSTHE LIFE PATH PERIODS

The life path has been discussed in very elementary details previously, and the life path period is an addition to this reading that should be taken into account. If we live long enough, we will experience three life path periods. As you progress into this page, think of the readings in terms of a modification or enhancement personalizing the life path reading. These readings do not replace the life path reading, but merely fine tune and customize it to the individual. Because life path periods can vary so widely, the life path we are on becomes complex and motley.

The life periods are based on the birth date. The number representing the month of birth, reduced to a single digit or master number, is the first life path period indicator. The second life path period is determined by the day of birth reduced to a single digit or master number. The final period is based on the year of birth reduced to a single digit or master number.

The timing of the first period begins at birth and continues until at least when in astrological progression the Moon has returned to its original place in the birth chart. This is about 28 years. To estimate the completion of the first period, determine the year that the subject turns 28. Next, calculate the personal year for the subject that year. If it is a 1 personal year, this year should be considered the beginning of the second life path period. If it is a 2 personal year for the subject, the previous year should be considered the beginning of the second life path period. If it is a 3-9 personal year, the beginning of the second life path period will not occur until the beginning of the next nine year cycle, i.e. the next 1 personal year.

This same process should be used to determine the beginning of the third life path period. For this, it is the 1 personal year a year before, on, or after, the 56th birthday.

For example, my birth is month 2, day 8, year 1939/22. Thus, I would be 28 in 1967 (1939+28-1967) which would be a 6 personal year for me. The next, 1968 would be 7 personal year; 1969 an 8 personal year, and 1970 a 9 personal year. The year 1971 would be my next 1 personal year making this the year that my life path period changed to 8. In 1995, a 7 personal year for me, I turned 56. My next number 1 personal year came in 1998. This then was the beginning of my third life path period.

These links will take you to the three periods, early years, productive years, and later years, for each of numbers:

1 Life Path Period

Early years: In this period you will show a stronger tendency toward independence. Originality and creativity come early and continue through this period. You have the ability to lead early on, but at a time when the emphasis is on learning to follow, this can be a problem. You do have a good deal of early self-confidence and individuality which can help you achieve early successes. You are aggressive in your early career path.

Productive years: In this period you will have more drive and determination thanks to the 1 life path period. If you have other indicators that you would do well in business for yourself, this life path period would be time to move in that direction. Your demeanor now is highly independent and leadership skills are sharpened. The potential pitfalls here are letting ego go a little out of control and perhaps showing a lack of patience at times.

Later years: New challenges may continue to appear even in your later years. In this period you may achieve the recognition that eluded you earlier, and this may mean it will be hard to kick back and take life easy. A 1 life path period does not lend itself to early retirement and leisure activities. Indeed, this may become the most active time of your life.

2 Life Path Period

Early years: This is a difficult life path period for a young child since it suggests that emotions may run high and sensitivities to many things may be present. On the positive side, this influence may be helpful for developing any artistic talents. The 2 period may be one in which you will be required to be helpful, supportive, and willing to adapt in general. A tendency to have emotional reactions to problems and confrontation may follow you into early adulthood.

Productive years: The 2 lifepath period suggests that you will profit from your ability to work together with others in harmony and cooperation. In these years your ability to use skills in diplomacy and mediation will be pronounced. The affairs of others and their success may be the key to your own advancement. Pushing your own agenda doesn't work as well now. The need is to control hyperactive emotions that may appear from time to time.

Later years: The 2 lifepath period in the later years promises a good retirement with many friends and opportunities. Your influence now will be based on your ability to bring together diverse opinions and ideas. Friends and family, and especially a close relationship is all important to your happiness now. Having close connections is vital to your health and wellbeing in your senior years.

3 Life Path Period

Early years: The 3 is an excellent lifepath period for a young person because of its inclination toward the development of expression. Any talents you may have in creative or artistic endeavors are encouraged during this period. Emotions may be high and hyperactive tendencies can be present. Making friends and enjoying social interactions will come easily now. Enjoy life as this is the tone of the 3 period, but be careful not to scatter your activities to the point that you fail to make progress on anything.

Productive years: This is likely to be a very pleasant, carefree and creative time in your life. Being original and using your talents of expression will find you furthering your career and your life in general. If there is a pitfall during this time it is becoming overly optimistic and extravagant, and spreading your talents too thin. In all this is a period that offers much happiness in exchange for a minimum of planning and concentration.

Later years: A 3 period in later life suggests an active social life with numerous hobbies and activities. If you are a creative person, this late life period may become your most prolific and fruitful. Indeed, this may be the time to write that book you have thought about, a time to learn a new method of expression perhaps, or simply let your imagination run free. Enjoy yourself, it won't be that terribly hard now.

4 Life Path Period

Early years: A 4 life path period is not much fun for a young person. It suggests that learning is difficult or the demands placed upon you to learn were harsh and burdensome. Now you have to build a solid foundation and the tone is one of learning practicality, order, and routine. Often this period denotes growing up with limited resources or restrictions of some sort. The demands often set the stage for later successes. You are to be very well prepared to start your career in early adulthood.

Productive years: This period is a time to build and develop ideas into a tactile form. Now is a time that you become more of a builder, a better organizer, and perhaps even a more stable and secure person. Your judgment and decisions take on more conservatism and practicality, and they are based on careful and more thoughtful planning. You are apt to be more serious about your work and perhaps devote more time to it, too. Be careful not to become a workaholic. With a 4 lifepath period you must be constantly reminded to take the time to smell the roses.

Later years: The 4 period in the later years suggests a period that predicts work rather than retirement. Whether by choice or by necessity, you are apt to keep your nose to the grindstone a lot longer than most of your peers. Even if you do retire, you will want to keep working on hobbies and avocation long after others have opted for the rocking chair. If you own your own business, it may be hard to accept that fact that things can run without your ever present attention.

5 Life Path Period

Early years: The 5 period early in life can be difficult because it often lacks the stability and certainty that you may wish for. This period often features changes and emphases freedom of thought and activity. You are likely to be constantly looking for something new, something exciting, something less boring to stimulate your expansive mind. During this time you will be an explorer and a wanderer. Whether this is a positive or a negative trait only time will tell. At any rate you are driven by curiosity and adventure. A restless nature often results, and as you progress into adulthood, a number of job or career changes may occur.

Productive years: In this period you are ever ready to accept change, progress, and new ideas. Likewise you are quick, some times too quick, to dump the old, old jobs, old activities, even old relationships. Sometimes this is good, sometime not so good. At any rate this 5 period suggests that you are more impulsive now and the test will be to see if you can handle the increased freedom you are feeling with constructive judgment. If so, you will find this is a period that can and should produce remarkable results.

Later years: With the 5 period occurring late in life, be prepared for a never ending series of adventures and expansive travel so long as the resources hold out. Actually, however, many with a late life 5 period choose to continue to work because of the sense of freedom found in their endeavors now; so long as the work is not boring or routine, there may be no reason to quit. This influence will continue to send you off to find new challenges and try new things. You are never too old to learn.

6 Life Path Period

Early years: The 6 period produces a need to be needed, and you probably want to help your parents or your brothers, sisters, and friends in whatever way you can. In some cases, this period is one in which the subject is required or somehow forced to take on more than a normal amount of responsibility at an early age. Generally, this early time in the life is marked by obvious attempts to be helpful and even nurturing to others. In early adulthood there is a strong sense of responsibility and caring.

Productive years: Through these years you will find yourself getting ahead only after you have made the personal sacrifices necessary to benefit others in need. Much of your life in this period will tend to be centered around your home and family. This is not a period that lends itself to dramatic enrichment because you tend to be more selfless and less demanding of personal rewards. Your opportunities may be as an idealist, a mediator, and perhaps even a leader in your community. Certainly the focus of the period is associated with family and domestic concerns.

Later years: The 6 period late in life is usually a happy and content time. It denotes a tendency to accept responsibility and lend a helping hand to those around you. You are not likely to be lonely in your later years since family and domestic matters will probably be emphasized during this time. Indeed, you may help or even be responsible for rearing a grandchild or two.

7 Life Path Period

Early years: If there is a problem with the 7 period in early life it is being misunderstood or considered "difficult." In this period you may have the sense that you are different from your peers. You repel conformity. The 7 period makes you inclined to seek and absorb learning as a primary focus. The fact that you don't feel very comfortable in your environment is to be expected. Your natural curiosity and inquisitive mind will take you far during this period.

Productive years: The 7 period in the productive years is excellent for one continuing studies and analysis into mid life. The tendency is to strive for mental growth and development and you are apt to be in the process of expanding your areas of interest now. This period is a plus if you are engaged in academic pursuits, but otherwise progress may be slow. It is hard to force yourself to seek opportunity now, and if you do, it will probably be to no avail. Perhaps it will come to you if you get prepared.

Later years: When the 7 period occurs in later life you may find yourself engaged in study as never before in your life. This period may find you writing more, engaged in some form of research, or venturing into new and interesting subjects. This is not a very social period and indeed there is concern that you may become increasingly isolated by your own choosing.

8 Life Path Period

Early years: An 8 period in early life stresses the practical and the material. This is not the stuff of a good childhood experience as it may tend to elevate the importance of material success at an inappropriate age. For the less affluent, there may be too much interest in achieving material goals. This period may have its positive side in preparing a relatively young person for financial and material success. You may go into business early in life with the tools to succeed.

Productive years: The 8 lifepath period in the productive years may push you to a level of success that would not have otherwise been attained. This period denotes a time when attainment, authority, and general business acumen is brought to foreground. You will want to set your goals high and do everything in a big way. If you have the inherent management abilities, this period will accelerate your prestige and attainments.

Later years: With the 8 lifepath period in later life, it is suggested that your greatest achievements may be yet to come. If all you have lacked before is good management, now may be your time to shine. In retirement you may find yourself deeply involved in clubs, organizations and perhaps government entities. Your contribution to these can be important for your sense of accomplishment and for your social life at this time.

9 Life Path Period

Early years: The 9 lifepath is difficult for a young person because so much is expected of them in terms of feeling compassion and tolerance. The youthful years are by nature selfish years and the 9 period stifles this sense of being self absorbed. While the upbringing under this influence can be helpful in the future, often the period brings periods of feeling lonely, unappreciated and unsure of self. The lesson of the 9 is that life is universal rather than personal, and thus, those with this early path may have a head start.

Productive years: With the 9 in the productive years you may find yourself becoming more of a humanitarian. You may find it easier to express compassion, sympathy, understanding and tolerance while in this period. This can be an emotional cycle and one of significant personal growth. You may be called on to overcome disappointments and setbacks, but the potential for gain in this period is significant.

Later years: The 9 period in the later years generally signifies a settled and happy life at this juncture. You are inclined to positive feelings toward the world, and you will want to share your experiences to a greater extent. You may engage in many positive works benefiting mankind or just a few needy souls in your immediate environment. The lesson of the number is learning to give without expecting to get something back. If you have learned this by this time, this period may well be the best part of your life.

11 Life Path Period

Early years: This master number is generally not attainable by a very young person and it is usually best to consider this a 2 lifepath period early on. As a young adult, you may find yourself drawn toward spiritual matters and idealism. Indeed, in this period you are inclined to act as an idealist, perhaps studying religion, metaphysics, or philosophy. Modest goals during this period will serve you best, as being too aggressive will result in problems with stress and nerves.

Productive years: In the productive years the 11 lifepath period will serve you best in any spiritual pursuit, but you may find yourself being a little out of touch with the business world. If your life has been a material one up to now, this period may cause some redirection. If you have inclinations to teach, to heal, to uplift, this is period when these lofty goals can come to fruit. This period can be a hard one if you find yourself under pressure and stress. Nervous tension can be a periodic problem.

Later years: In retirement or at least the later years, the 11 lifepath period may direct you toward a more spiritual conclusion. In these years you will be able to find more time for study and reflection, expanding your mind and broadening your thinking. This redirection may push you into a more spiritual way of thinking and definitely away from the material side of life. For some who reject the idea of spiritualism, the "Later years 2" reading may be more definitive.

22 Life Path Period

Early years: There is no early 22 lifepath period since there is no 22 month.

Productive years: The 22 period during the productive years can send you sailing up the ladder. If you are properly prepared and adequately equipped, this period may find you being placed in charge of big projects, accomplishing huge achievements, and functioning or striving for a spot at the top of the heap. The number 22 is the master builder. Having the period doesn't necessarily make you a master builder, but it does produce the flow of events that will certainly speed you on the road to success. This is a time to follow your hunches as you assume greater responsibility and capitalize on opportunities. Keep nerves and emotions under control as these can be a problem during this period.

Later years: Many with the 22 period in later life never do retire or if they do, that retirement is never one that is complete leisure. Nervous energy may keep you on the go. This period may well be your most accomplished as events of the time may indeed set you up for big projects and major achievements. Keep occupied in these years and don't shy away from the main stage of life.

Tuesday, May 27, 2008

Srivaishnavism - Srivaishnavism is a philosophy and a religion based on the Upanisads and the divine hymns of Alwars

Tuesday, May 27, 2008 0
Srivaishnavism -  Srivaishnavism is a philosophy and a religion based on the Upanisads and the divine hymns of Alwars
 Principles of Srivaishnavism

Principles of Srivaishnavism


Srivaishnavism is a philosophy and a religion based on the Upanisads and the divine hymns of Alwars. This system of philosophy explains the nature of souls, matter and God and the relation between them in a rational manner based on testimony and prescribes two basic paths namely Bhakti and Prapatti to get liberation from the vicious cycle of birth and death and attaining the highest state bliss which is nothing but divine service to Sriman Narayana( in paramapada). Srivaishnavism lays equal emphasis on ethical religious way of life and performance of religious duties. It is this practical aspect that gives distinction to Vaishnava philosophy that is far more important than the philosophy!


This song composed by Narasimha Mehta (a Gujarati poet of 15th century) summarises practical Vaishnava values in an unique way :

He is a true Vaishnava who knows and feels another’s calamities as his own.

Ever ready to serve, he never boasts.

Keeping his thought, word and deed pure.

Blessed is the mother of such a person.

He treats women as he would treat his own mother

He keeps his mind calm and does not stain his lips with falsehood;

Nor does he touch another’s wealth.

No bonds of attachment can hold him.

Ever in tune with Rama-nama (name of God), within his body is present all places of piligrimage.

Free from greed and deceit, passion and anger,

This is a true Vaishnava

We can find the echo of such statements emphasizing the religious and ethical values in almost all the world religions. However, the distinctive feature of Vaishnava dharma lies in the fact that a Vaishnava believes in Vishnu, the Supreme Being who pervades the entire universe as enunciated in the Isavasya Upanisad - isa vasyam idam sarvam yatkincha jagatyam jagat. Hence, a Vaishnava should therefore love all beings and treat them as equal and hate none. He should live with the peace of mind and lead a humble pious life dedicating himself to the service of God and his devotees. Such a way of life will bring him not only happiness in this world but an everlasting bliss in the other world.

One of the essential requirements for a Vaishnava in order to lead a religious life is to have a well qualified Acharya or Guru. Even the most meritorious person and a sinner of the worst kind needs the guidance of an Acharya or preceptor. The inner meaning of the philosophical truths cannot be attained by just self study of Vedanta.. A special feature of Vaishnaivism is the emphasis on daily worship of the entire lineage of Acharyas starting from Narayana, the first Acharya (preceptor) to the present Acharya.

For one to be fully qualified as a Vaishnava, one has to undergo the five-fold sacrament, namely pancha-samskara.

The distinctions of caste, creed, learning and social status have no bearing on being a Vaishnava. Garuda purana explicitly states that a person who has the eight-fold bhakti in Vishnu should be honored, even if he is a mleccha or person who does not conform to Hindu ideals.

A devout Vaishnava performs certain prescribed daily duties meticulously with true devotion. These duties are :

1) abhigamana or morning prayers,

2) upadana or collection of materials for worship,

3) ijya or formal worship of God, 4) svadhyaya - recitation and study of scriptures,

5) yoga or contemplation on God.

There are certain easier religious practices such as the nine-fold bhakti mentioned in srimad-bhagavatam :

1) listening to the glory of Vishnu (sravana),

2) singing the glory of God (kirtana)

3) constantly remembering His greatness, (smarana)

4) service to God (padasevana),

5) offering worship to God’s image (archana),

6) prostrating before God(vandana),

7) developing feeling of subbordination to God (dasya),

8) developing friendly disposition to God (sakhya) and

9) surrendering oneself to God.

These practices do not require preparatory and purificatory activities except deep love for God.

A vaishnava has to fully realize that he (sesa) is absolutely dependent on God (sesin) and that his intrinsic duty is to serve God at all times (sarvakala) and all ways (sarvavastha). He should realize that he is a mere tool in the hands of God and do all actions not for his selfish purpose but with a spirit of providing pleasure to God. This is nishkama karma or self-less action and this is the height of renouncement of ego (ahankara) and the notion of mine (mamakara). A service done in this spirit removes one’s sins by earning the grace of God. Though any act can be taken as kainkarya or service to God, there are certain services mostly related to temple activities ranging from the simplest act of bringing flowers to the great task of construction of a temple to Sri-Hari. Some examples of kainkarya are : lighting lamps, waving fan to the diety, preparing and offering food to God, bringing water for worship, recitation of hymns and slokas, cleaning the floors of the temple etc. A true kainkarya is done not for monetary or social gain but as a source of divine pleasure to Sri-Hari.

Along with service to God, a true Vaishnava should serve Godly people or Bhagavatas. In fact service to His devotees is MORE IMPORTANT

Vedas : Vedas present an approach to universe and also relationship of man vis a vis universe.Vedic approach is that our planet is part of our universe and systems of universe have an influence on the life in our planet. Meditation and other activities emphasized in vedas is essentially to attract beneficial cosmic radiation's to our planet , which inturn help to form an environment conductive to healthy development of body and mind of human.

Vedic approach centres around " God or Parabrahman" who is responsible for creation, progress and destruction of the universe.Further he regulates every action of the universe.With the advent of cosmic and space research, this vedic approach is gaining recognition.Frank.J.Tipler, Prof. of Mathematical physics , in his book "The physics of immortality" discusses various theories of cosmology (omega point theory) and points out that the present observations are based on visible universe which is only a small fraction of the total universe.By defining the universe as the totality of all that exists (including the invisible portion of the universe), he points out the existence of a person / force/ source that is omnipresent (unlimited power) omnicent (knowing everything)and omnipresent (present everywhere).In this way he supports the vedic concept of God.

Vedic approach that time is cyclic in character , also finds scientific support.Vedic concept is that one " Chaturyuga " - comprising of " Kaliyuga " , " Dwaparayuga " , "Tretayuga " and "Satyayuga " -is the basic cycle on which wheel of time moves.( This is approximately 4.32 million human years ) . 1008 cycles of chaturyuga constitutes "One day " at the ultimate source of creation.This is referred to as " Kalpa " .The creation begins at the beginning of a Kalpa ( called Laya ) and there will be complete destruction at the end of "Kalpa" ( called Pralaya ).Creation and destruction are continuous process , not only in our planet but also in the entire universe.

Srivaishnavism :

Vedas are starting point of all Indian philosophies . Ramanuja has also based " Srivaishnavism" on vedic principles. Srivaishnavism is as old as veda itself ." Alwars" , Supreme devotees of Lord Vishnu , are foremost amongst the Srivaishnava teachers .They are overwhelmed by the desire for incessant communion with the lord.They remain immersed in singing the divine glories of the Lord.The songs composed and sung by them are known as "Divya Prabhandam " .There are in all 4000 songs all in Tamil. These songs bring out " Saranagathi " ( or surrender ) approach to god realization. These songs bring out the essence of Vedas and hence are also referred to as "Tamil Vedas".There are 12 Alwars who spread Vishnu Bhakti Cult and surrender.Ramanuja gave a scientific explanation of Srivaishnavism and hence has become synonymous with Vishishtadvaita.

God is the absolute reality , endowed with all auspicious and excellent attributes which are unsurpassable.He is the inner ruler of matter ( a non-sensuous thing or Achit ) as well as Souls or Atman ( a sensuous thing or Chit ).In the state of cosmic dissolution (Pralaya) which occurs at the end of a kalpa (cycles of four yugas), the matter and soul exist in a subtle state in Him possessing none of the qualities which make them objects of experience or cognizing subjects.From this subtle state , creation evolves by the will of God. Subtle matter ( Achit) develop into gross form and will be of 24 types such as "Prakriti " , etc.Mixture of the various types of Achit is our world and body of living things.Souls (Chit) expand their consciousness ,entering into connection with bodies appropriate to their past Karmas (Actions) and continue the cycle of births and deaths , known as "Sansara". Out of compassion for the souls , God also teaches vedas - a treatise discussing nature of souls, prakriti or nature, God or Paramatman, causes of samsara and ways to get out of samsara etc- through Brahma and a lineage of sages Srivaishnavism explains saranagathi approach to cross samsara.

Three realities :

Srivaishnavism recognizes three realities - namely Chit ( Sensuous objects) , Achit ( Non Sensuous objects ) and Eshwara ( God) .This is referred to as "Tatwa Thraya" . Achit is of 24 types , such as Prakriti , etc . Achit has no capacity to show itself .It is dependent on Chit for this purpose .Both Chit and Achit are subordinate to Eshwara. Saranagathi is the main process for "Moksha "- that is redeeming of Samsara.

Thus , according to Srivaishnavism , every individual in this world is an inseparable combination of Soul (Chit) , Prakriti ( Achit) and Eshwara ( Antaryami ). Every soul gets a body ( evolved out of prakriti ) in accordance with his Karmas. the soul and body are inseparable and interdependent in an individual. Eshwara ( Antaryami) resides in the body but does not take part in the worldly activities of the body .However , His help is available for the soul to cross the Samsara.


Wednesday, May 21, 2008

Swami Vivekananda - Swami Vivekananda, known in his pre-monastic life as Narendra Nath Datta, was born in an affluent family in Kolkata

Wednesday, May 21, 2008 0
Swami Vivekananda - Swami Vivekananda, known in his pre-monastic life as Narendra Nath Datta, was born in an affluent family in Kolkata

Swami Vivekananda, known in his pre-monastic life as Narendra Nath Datta, was born in an affluent family in Kolkata on 12 January 1863. His father, Vishwanath Datta, was a successful attorney with interests in a wide range of subjects, and his mother, Bhuvaneshwari Devi, was endowed with deep devotion, strong character and other qualities. A precocious boy, Narendra excelled in music, gymnastics and studies. By the time he graduated from Calcutta University, he had acquired a vast knowledge of different subjects, especially Western philosophy and history. Born with a yogic temperament, he used to practise meditation even from his boyhood, and was associated with Brahmo Movement for some time.

Swami Vivekananda’s contributions to world culture, the eminent British historian

With Sri Ramakrishna


At the threshold of youth Narendra had to pass through a period of spiritual crisis when he was assailed by doubts about the existence of God. It was at that time he first heard about Sri Ramakrishna from one of his English professors at college. One day in November 1881, Narendra went to meet Sri Ramakrishna who was staying at the Kali Temple in Dakshineshwar. He straightaway asked the Master a question which he had put to several others but had received no satisfactory answer: “Sir, have you seen God?” Without a moment’s hesitation, Sri Ramakrishna replied: “Yes, I have. I see Him as clearly as I see you, only in a much intenser sense.”


Apart from removing doubts from the mind of Narendra, Sri Ramakrishna won him over through his pure, unselfish love. Thus began a guru-disciple relationship which is quite unique in the history of spiritual masters. Narendra now became a frequent visitor to Dakshineshwar and, under the guidance of the Master, made rapid strides on the spiritual path. At Dakshineshwar, Narendra also met several young men who were devoted to Sri Ramakrishna, and they all became close friends.


Difficult Situations


After a few years two events took place which caused Narendra considerable distress. One was the sudden death of his father in 1884. This left the family penniless, and Narendra had to bear the burden of supporting his mother, brothers and sisters. The second event was the illness of Sri Ramakrishna which was diagnosed to be cancer of the throat. In September 1885 Sri Ramakrishna was moved to a house at Shyampukur, and a few months later to a rented villa at Cossipore. In these two places the young disciples nursed the Master with devoted care. In spite of poverty at home and inability to find a job for himself, Narendra joined the group as its leader.


Beginnings of a Monastic Brotherhood


Sri Ramakrishna instilled in these young men the spirit of renunciation and brotherly love for one another. One day he distributed ochre robes among them and sent them out to beg food. In this way he himself laid the foundation for a new monastic order. He gave specific instructions to Narendra about the formation of the new monastic Order. In the small hours of 16 August 1886 Sri Ramakrishna gave up his mortal body.


After the Master’s passing, fifteen of his young disciples (one more joined them later) began to live together in a dilapidated building at Baranagar in North Kolkata. Under the leadership of Narendra, they formed a new monastic brotherhood, and in 1887 they took the formal vows of sannyasa, thereby assuming new names. Narendra now became Swami Vivekananda (although this name was actually assumed much later.)


Awareness of Life’s Mission


After establishing the new monastic order, Vivekananda heard the inner call for a greater mission in his life. While most of the followers of Sri Ramakrishna thought of him in relation to their own personal lives, Vivekananda thought of the Master in relation to India and the rest of the world. As the prophet of the present age, what was Sri Ramakrishna’s message to the modern world and to India in particular? This question and the awareness of his own inherent powers urged Swamiji to go out alone into the wide world. So in the middle of 1890, after receiving the blessings of Sri Sarada Devi, the divine consort of Sri Ramakrishna, known to the world as Holy Mother, who was then staying in Kolkata, Swamiji left Baranagar Math and embarked on a long journey of exploration and discovery of India.


Discovery of Real India


During his travels all over India, Swami Vivekananda was deeply moved to see the appalling poverty and backwardness of the masses. He was the first religious leader in India to understand and openly declare that the real cause of India’s downfall was the neglect of the masses. The immediate need was to provide food and other bare necessities of life to the hungry millions. For this they should be taught improved methods of agriculture, village industries, etc. It was in this context that Vivekananda grasped the crux of the problem of poverty in India (which had escaped the attention of social reformers of his days): owing to centuries of oppression, the downtrodden masses had lost faith in their capacity to improve their lot. It was first of all necessary to infuse into their minds faith in themselves. For this they needed a life-giving, inspiring message. Swamiji found this message in the principle of the Atman, the doctrine of the potential divinity of the soul, taught in Vedanta, the ancient system of religious philosophy of India. He saw that, in spite of poverty, the masses clung to religion, but they had never been taught the life-giving, ennobling principles of Vedanta and how to apply them in practical life.


Thus the masses needed two kinds of knowledge: secular knowledge to improve their economic condition, and spiritual knowledge to infuse in them faith in themselves and strengthen their moral sense. The next question was, how to spread these two kinds of knowledge among the masses? Through education – this was the answer that Swamiji found.


Need for an Organization


One thing became clear to Swamiji: to carry out his plans for the spread of education and for the uplift of the poor masses, and also of women, an efficient organization of dedicated people was needed. As he said later on, he wanted “to set in motion a machinery which will bring noblest ideas to the doorstep of even the poorest and the meanest.” It was to serve as this ‘machinery’ that Swamiji founded the Ramakrishna Mission a few years later.


Decision to attend the Parliament of Religions


It was when these ideas were taking shape in his mind in the course of his wanderings that Swami Vivekananda heard about the World’s Parliament of Religions to be held in Chicago in 1893. His friends and admirers in India wanted him to attend the Parliament. He too felt that the Parliament would provide the right forum to present his Master’s message to the world, and so he decided to go to America. Another reason which prompted Swamiji to go to America was to seek financial help for his project of uplifting the masses.


Swamiji, however, wanted to have an inner certitude and divine call regarding his mission. Both of these he got while he sat in deep meditation on the rock-island at Kanyakumari. With the funds partly collected by his Chennai disciples and partly provided by the Raja of Khetri, Swami Vivekananda left for America from Mumbai on 31 May 1893.


The Parliament of Religions and After


His speeches at the World’s Parliament of Religions held in September 1893 made him famous as an ‘orator by divine right’ and as a ‘Messenger of Indian wisdom to the Western world’. After the Parliament, Swamiji spent nearly three and a half years spreading Vedanta as lived and taught by Sri Ramakrishna, mostly in the eastern parts of USA and also in London.


Awakening His Countrymen


He returned to India in January 1897. In response to the enthusiastic welcome that he received everywhere, he delivered a series of lectures in different parts of India, which created a great stir all over the country. Through these inspiring and profoundly significant lectures Swamiji attempted to do the following:


  • to rouse the religious consciousness of the people and create in them pride in their cultural heritage;

  • to bring about unification of Hinduism by pointing out the common bases of its sects;

  • to focus the attention of educated people on the plight of the downtrodden masses, and to expound his plan for their uplift by the application of the principles of Practical Vedanta.


Founding of Ramakrishna Mission


Soon after his return to Kolkata, Swami Vivekananda accomplished another important task of his mission on earth. He founded on 1 May 1897 a unique type of organization known as Ramakrishna Mission, in which monks and lay people would jointly undertake propagation of Practical Vedanta, and various forms of social service, such as running hospitals, schools, colleges, hostels, rural development centres etc, and conducting massive relief and rehabilitation work for victims of earthquakes, cyclones and other calamities, in different parts of India and other countries.


Belur Math


In early 1898 Swami Vivekananda acquired a big plot of land on the western bank of the Ganga at a place called Belur to have a permanent abode for the monastery and monastic Order originally started at Baranagar, and got it registered as Ramakrishna Math after a couple of years. Here Swamiji established a new, universal pattern of monastic life which adapts ancient monastic ideals to the conditions of modern life, which gives equal importance to personal illumination and social service, and which is open to all men without any distinction of religion, race or caste.


Disciples


It may be mentioned here that in the West many people were influenced by Swami Vivekananda’s life and message. Some of them became his disciples or devoted friends. Among them the names of Margaret Noble (later known as Sister Nivedita), Captain and Mrs Sevier, Josephine McLeod and Sara Ole Bull, deserve special mention. Nivedita dedicated her life to educating girls in Kolkata. Swamiji had many Indian disciples also, some of whom joined Ramakrishna Math and became sannyasins.


Last Days


In June 1899 he went to the West on a second visit. This time he spent most of his time in the West coast of USA. After delivering many lectures there, he returned to Belur Math in December 1900. The rest of his life was spent in India, inspiring and guiding people, both monastic and lay. Incessant work, especially giving lectures and inspiring people, told upon Swamiji’s health. His health deteriorated and the end came quietly on the night of 4 July 1902. Before his Mahasamadhi he had written to a Western follower: “It may be that I shall find it good to get outside my body, to cast it off like a worn out garment. But I shall not cease to work. I shall inspire men everywhere until the whole world shall know that it is one with God.”

Chronology of Main Events related to Swami Vivekananda

1863
January 12
Birth in Kolkata
1879

Enters Presidency College
1880

Transfers to General Assembly Institution
1881
November
First meeting with Sri Ramakrishna
1882-
1886
Association with Sri Ramakrishna
1884

Passes B. A. Examination


Father passes away
1885

Sri Ramakrishna’s last illness
1886
August 16
Sri Ramakrishna passes away

Fall
Establishes Baranagar Math

December 24
Informal vow of sannyasa at Antpur
1887
January
Formal vows of sannyasa at Baranagar Monastery
1890-
1893
Travels all over India as itinerant monk
1892
December 24
At Kanyakumari, South India
1893
February 13
First public lecture, Secunderabad, South India

May 31
Sails for America from Mumbai

July 25
Lands at Vancouver, Canada

July 30
Arrives in Chicago

August
Meets Professor John Ft. Wright of Harvard University

September 11
First address at Parliament of Religions, Chicago

September 27
Final address at Parliament of Religions

November 20
Begins mid-western lecture tour
1894
April 14
Begins lectures and classes on East Coast

May 16
Speaks at Harvard University

July-August
At Green Acre Religious Conference

November
Founds Vedanta Society of New York
1895
January
Begins classes in New York

June 4-18
At Camp Percy, New Hampshire

June-August
At Thousand Island Park on St. Lawrence river, N.Y.

August-September
In Paris

October-November
Lectures in London

December 6
Sails for New York
1896
March 22-25
Speaks at Harvard University, offered Eastern Philosophy chair

April 15
Returns to London

May-July
Gives classes in London

May 28
Meets Max Muller in Oxford

August-September
In the Europe for six weeks

October-November
Gives classes in London

December 30
Leaves Naples for India
1897
January 15
Arrives in Colombo, Sri Lanka

February 6-15
In Chennai

February 19
Arrives in Kolkata

May 1
Establishes Ramakrishna Mission Association, Kolkata

May-December
Tours northwest India
1898
January
Returns to Kolkata

May
Begins North India pilgrimage with Western devotees

August 2
At Amarnath, Kashmir

December 9
Consecrates Belur Math
1899
March 19
Establishes Advaita Ashrama at Mayavati

June 20
Leaves India for second visit to the West

July 31
Arrives in London

August 28
Arrives in New York City

August-November
At Ridgely Manor, New York

December 3
Arrives in Los Angeles
1900
February 22
Arrives in San Francisco

April 14
Founds Vedanta Society in San Francisco

June
Final classes in New York City

July 26
Leaves for Europe

August 3
Arrives in Paris for International Exposition

September 7
Speaks at Congress of History of Religions at Exposition

October 24
Begins tour of Vienna, Constantinople, Greece and Cairo

November 26
Leaves for India

December 9
Arrives at Belur Math
1901
January
Visits Mayavati

March-May
Pilgrimage in East Bengal and Assam
1902
January-February
Visits Bodh Gaya and Varanasi

March
Returns to Belur Math

July 4
Mahasamadhi

Vivekananda’s contributions to World Culture


Making an objective assessment of Swami Vivekananda’s contributions to world culture, the eminent British historian A L Basham stated that “in centuries to come, he will be remembered as one of the main moulders of the modern world…” Some of the main contributions that Swamiji made to the modern world are mentioned below:

1. New Understanding of Religion: One of the most significant contributions of Swami Vivekananda to the modern world is his interpretation of religion as a universal experience of transcendent Reality, common to all humanity. Swamiji met the challenge of modern science by showing that religion is as scientific as science itself; religion is the ‘science of consciousness’. As such, religion and science are not contradictory to each other but are complementary.

This universal conception frees religion from the hold of superstitions, dogmatism, priestcraft and intolerance, and makes religion the highest and noblest pursuit – the pursuit of supreme Freedom, supreme Knowledge, supreme Happiness.

2. New View of Man: Vivekananda’s concept of ‘potential divinity of the soul’ gives a new, ennobling concept of man. The present age is the age of humanism which holds that man should be the chief concern and centre of all activities and thinking. Through science and technology man has attained great prosperity and power, and modern methods of communication and travel have converted human society into a ‘global village’. But the degradation of man has also been going on apace, as witnessed by the enormous increase in broken homes, immorality, violence, crime, etc. in modern society. Vivekananda’s concept of potential divinity of the soul prevents this degradation, divinizes human relationships, and makes life meaningful and worth living. Swamiji has laid the foundation for ‘spiritual humanism’, which is manifesting itself through several neo-humanistic movements and the current interest in meditation, Zen etc all over the world.

3. New Principle of Morality and Ethics: The prevalent morality, in both individual life and social life, is mostly based on fear – fear of the police, fear of public ridicule, fear of God’s punishment, fear of Karma, and so on. The current theories of ethics also do not explain why a person should be moral and be good to others. Vivekananda has given a new theory of ethics and new principle of morality based on the intrinsic purity and oneness of the Atman. We should be pure because purity is our real nature, our true divine Self or Atman. Similarly, we should love and serve our neighbours because we are all one in the Supreme Spirit known as Paramatman or Brahman.

4. Bridge between the East and the West: Another great contribution of Swami Vivekananda was to build a bridge between Indian culture and Western culture. He did it by interpreting Hindu scriptures and philosophy and the Hindu way of life and institutions to the Western people in an idiom which they could understand. He made the Western people realize that they had to learn much from Indian spirituality for their own well-being. He showed that, in spite of her poverty and backwardness, India had a great contribution to make to world culture. In this way he was instrumental in ending India’s cultural isolation from the rest of the world. He was India’s first great cultural ambassador to the West.


On the other hand, Swamiji’s interpretation of ancient Hindu scriptures, philosophy, institutions, etc prepared the mind of Indians to accept and apply in practical life two best elements of Western culture, namely science and technology and humanism. Swamiji has taught Indians how to master Western science and technology and at the same time develop spiritually. Swamiji has also taught Indians how to adapt Western humanism (especially the ideas of individual freedom, social equality and justice and respect for women) to Indian ethos.

Swamiji’s Contributions to India


In spite of her innumerable linguistic, ethnic, historical and regional diversities, India has had from time immemorial a strong sense of cultural unity. It was, however, Swami Vivekananda who revealed the true foundations of this culture and thus clearly defined and strengthened the sense of unity as a nation.


Swamiji gave Indians proper understanding of their country’s great spiritual heritage and thus gave them pride in their past.


Furthermore, he pointed out to Indians the drawbacks of Western culture and the need for India’s contribution to overcome these drawbacks. In this way Swamiji made India a nation with a global mission.


Sense of unity, pride in the past, sense of mission – these were the factors which gave real strength and purpose to India’s nationalist movement. Several eminent leaders of India’s freedom movement have acknowledged their indebtedness to Swamiji. Free India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru wrote: “Rooted in the past, full of pride in India’s prestige, Vivekananda was yet modern in his approach to life’s problems, and was a kind of bridge between the past of India and her present … he came as a tonic to the depressed and demoralized Hindu mind and gave it self-reliance and some roots in the past.” Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose wrote: “Swamiji harmonized the East and the West, religion and science, past and present. And that is why he is great. Our countrymen have gained unprecedented self-respect, self-reliance and self-assertion from his teachings.”


Swamiji’s most unique contribution to the creation of new India was to open the minds of Indians to their duty to the downtrodden masses. Long before the ideas of Karl Marx were known in India, Swamiji spoke about the role of the labouring classes in the production of the country’s wealth. Swamiji was the first religious leader in India to speak for the masses, formulate a definite philosophy of service, and organize large-scale social service.

Swamiji’s Contributions to Hinduism


1. Identity: It was Swami Vivekananda who gave to Hinduism as a whole a clear-cut identity, a distinct profile. Before Swamiji came Hinduism was a loose confederation of many different sects. Swamiji was the first religious leader to speak about the common bases of Hinduism and the common ground of all sects. He was the first person, as guided by his Master Sri Ramakrishna, to accept all Hindu doctrines and the views of all Hindu philosophers and sects as different aspects of one total view of Reality and way of life known as Hinduism. Speaking about Swamiji’s role in giving Hinduism its distinct identity, Sister Nivedita wrote: “… it may be said that when he began to speak it was of ‘the religious ideas of the Hindus’, but when he ended, Hinduism had been created.”

2.Unification: Before Swamiji came, there was a lot of quarrel and competition among the various sects of Hinduism. Similarly, the protagonists of different systems and schools of philosophy were claiming their views to be the only true and valid ones. By applying Sri Ramakrishna’s doctrine of Harmony (Samanvaya) Swamiji brought about an overall unification of Hinduism on the basis of the principle of unity in diversity. Speaking about Swamiji’s role in this field K M Pannikar, the eminent historian and diplomat, wrote: “This new Shankaracharya may well be claimed to be a unifier of Hindu ideology.”

3. Defence: Another important service rendered by Swamiji was to raise his voice in defence of Hinduism. In fact, this was one of the main types of work he did in the West. Christian missionary propaganda had given a wrong understanding of Hinduism and India in Western minds. Swamiji had to face a lot of opposition in his attempts to defend Hinduism.

4. Meeting the Challenges: At the end of the 19th century, India in general, and Hinduism in particular, faced grave challenges from Western materialistic life, the ideas of Western free society, and the proselytizing activities of Christians. Vivekananda met these challenges by integrating the best elements of Western culture in Hindu culture.

5. New Ideal of Monasticism: A major contribution of Vivekananda to Hinduism is the rejuvenation and modernization of monasticism. In this new monastic ideal, followed in the Ramakrishna Order, the ancient principles of renunciation and God realization are combined with service to God in man (Shiva jnane jiva seva). Vivekananda elevated social service to the status of divine service.

6. Refurbishing of Hindu Philosophy and Religious Doctrines: Vivekananda did not merely interpret ancient Hindu scriptures and philosophical ideas in terms of modern thought. He also added several illuminating original concepts based on his own transcendental experiences and vision of the future. This, however, needs a detailed study of Hindu philosophy which cannot be attempted here.

Selected Teachings of Swami Vivekananda

  • My ideal, indeed, can be put into a few words, and that is: to preach unto mankind their divinity, and how to make it manifest in every movement of life.

  • Education is the manifestation of the perfection already in man.

  • We want that education by which character is formed, strength of mind is increased, the intellect is expanded, and by which one can stand on one's own feet.

  • So long as the millions live in hunger and ignorance, I hold every man a traitor who, having been educated at their expense, pays not the least heed to them.

  • Whatever you think, that you will be. If you think yourselves weak, weak you will be; if you think yourselves strong, strong you will be.

  • If you have faith in all the three hundred and thirty millions of your mythological gods, … and still have no faith in yourselves, there is no salvation for you. Have faith in yourselves, and stand up on that faith and be strong; that is what we need.

  • Strength, strength it is that we want so much in this life, for what we call sin and sorrow have all one cause, and that is our weakness. With weakness comes ignorance, and with ignorance comes misery.

  • The older I grow, the more everything seems to me to lie in manliness. This is my new Gospel.

  • Purity, patience, and perseverance are the three essentials to success, and above all, love.

  • Religion is realization; not talk, not doctrine, nor theories, however beautiful they may be. It is being and becoming, not hearing or acknowledging; it is the whole soul becoming changed into what it believes.

  • Religion is the manifestation of the Divinity already in man.

  • Teach yourselves, teach everyone his real nature, call uon the sleeping soul and see how it awakes. Power will come, glory will come, goodness will come, purity will come, and everything that is excellent will come when this sleeping soul is roused to self-conscious activity.

  • They alone live who live for others, the rest are more dead than alive.

  • This is the gist of all worship – to be pure and to do good to others.

  • It is love and love alone that I preach, and I base my teaching on the great Vedantic truth of the sameness and omnipresence of the Soul of the Universe.



Also See



Source : http://www.belurmath.org/swamivivekananda.htm