An introduction to Navaratri
March 16, 2008
A brief introduction to Navarati, the fall celebration of the goddesses Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswati.
Ravana
March 15, 2008
The story of Ravana and how he obtains so much power, but loses it all because of his character flaws which manifest in his attraction for Sita.
Hanuman and Ravana
March 14, 2008
Hanuman and Ravana; Hanuman flies to Lanka to find Sita, battles various demons and destroys parts of Ravana’s palace, only to be captured by Indrajit. Chanting of Shiva Tandava Stotram and a selection of the Ramayana.
The Dandaka Forest
March 13, 2008
Dandaka Forest is twice cursed, once by Shukra and again by Gautama. Rama arrives and meets Atri Rishi and Anasuya, then battles the demon Virada. Chanting of Rama Pahimam, and Hannuman Chalisa
Never upset your mind
March 13, 2008
“Never upset our mind with yes and no.
Be quiet.
You are awareness itself.
Live in the happiness
Of your own nature,
Which is happiness itself.”
-Ashtavakra Gita
Rangoli
March 12, 2008
Every morning on the way to the yagya facility we looked the beautiful rangoli designs, freshly made with rice flour, outside every home. This one was outside the entrance to a local Durga temple. There is something very nice about both the simplicity and elegance of these decorations
When you have seen…
March 12, 2008
“When you have seen God
You meditate on Him,
Saying to yourself, “I am He.” (Shivoham)
But when you are without thought
And you understand there is only one,
Without a second,
On whom can you meditate?”
- Ashtavakra Gita
Sudarshana Chakra
March 11, 2008
Sudarshana Chakra - Vishnu’s weapon. The story of Vishnu’s weapon, a gift from Shiva. The story of King Ambarisha and Durvasa rishi. Chanting of Sudarshana Gayatri, Ashtakam and Kavacham.
The heart of awareness
March 11, 2008
“Earth, fire and water,
The wind and the sky
You are none of these.
If you wish to be free,
Know you are the Self,
The witness of all these,
The heart of awareness.”
- Ashtavakra Gita
Neighborhood temple
March 10, 2008
The Durga Temple down the street….