#damaru

[vajracrafts2021]

Tibetan Buddhist Ritual Chod Drum/Damaru with Yellow Brocade Cover

[luckshmi]

Purva Bhadrapada | World Wanderer

Purva Bhadrapada, unfolds a cosmic dance that intertwines mythology, symbolism, and the mysteries of the universe. Governed by the celestial forces of Saturn and Jupiter, this Nakshatra is home to the enigmatic deity Aja Ekapada, often associated with the awe-inspiring form of Lord Shiva as Nataraja. This article delves into the profound symbolism embedded in Purva Bhadrapada, connecting the dance of creation and destruction with elements ranging from Hindu mythology to modern physics, exploring the dualities of existence and the spiritual journey

Nataraja - The Cosmic Dancer

In the ethereal realm of divine dance, Nataraja, the one cosmic manifestation of Lord Shiva, continues to unfold a mesmerizing tapestry that captures the essence of creation, destruction, and the cyclical nature of existence. This celestial dance, a sublime choreography known as Pralaya, resonates with profound symbolism that transcends the boundaries of mythology, offering a timeless allegory for the eternal transformation of energy in the cosmic order.

The untamed locks of Lord Shiva, a visual manifestation of asceticism, stand in stark contrast to his role as a householder. This duality encapsulates the multifaceted nature of Shiva, symbolizing his ability to seamlessly oscillate between the transcendent and the worldly. The unruly hair, flowing freely as he dances, represents a rejection of societal norms, an embodiment of the ascetic spirit that eschews material attachments while actively participating in the cosmic drama

The sacred Ganges, coursing through the tangled strands of Shiva's hair, assumes a pivotal role in the cosmic dance. Its descent from the heavens to Earth is not merely a celestial event but a symbolic act guided and protected by Shiva. This divine intervention not only breaks the fall of the sacred river but also alludes to the interplay between the celestial and terrestrial realms. The Ganges, now residing in Nataraja's locks, becomes a potent symbol of purity, spirituality, and the interconnectedness of the cosmic forces.

The crescent moon, delicately placed in Shiva's matted hair, holds profound significance in the cosmic ballet. Its waxing and waning influences Kama Dev, the god of nightly love, breathing life into the changing seasons that govern the universe. The rhythmic dance of Nataraja, guided by the lunar phases, symbolizes the perpetual cycle of birth, growth, decay, and regeneration. In this celestial choreography, Shiva orchestrates the cosmic symphony, ensuring the harmonious flow of life's eternal dance.

At the heart of Nataraja's dance is Pralaya, the cosmic dissolution that marks the end of an existing order. This transformative phase emphasizes the impermanence of the material world and the continuous cycle of creation and annihilation. As Shiva engages in the rhythmic dance, the universe dissolves into him, highlighting the profound truth that energy can neither be created nor destroyed; it only undergoes perpetual metamorphosis.

In Shiva's hand, the damaru, an hourglass-shaped drum, reverberates with a rhythmic beat that echoes the cosmic pulse. This incessant sound symbolizes the ceaseless recreation of the universe. The damaru's beats resonate with the vibrations that underpin the fabric of reality, creating a cosmic harmony that sustains the intricate dance of life, death, and rebirth.

The serpent coiled around Nataraja's arms in the cosmic dance further amplifies the symbolism within Purva Bhadrapada. The serpent, often a symbol of primal energy and kundalini, signifies the power over deadly creatures and echoes the transmigration of human souls. As the serpent sheds its skin, symbolizing rebirth, it mirrors the cyclical nature of existence, reinforcing the idea that life is an ever-evolving journey of transformation and renewal.

As Nataraja's cosmic dance unfolds, the symbolism embedded in each gesture and element becomes a profound meditation on the nature of existence.

Aja Ekapada

In this sacred Nakshatra, the celestial dance of Lord Shiva takes on profound layers of symbolism, weaving an intricate tapestry that extends far beyond the cosmic dance of Nataraja. Aja Ekapada, the presiding deity of this Nakshatra, emerges as a symbolic powerhouse.

Described as a kind of Agni, Aja Ekapada embodies the transformative power of fire. The flames of Agni in Hindu tradition represent not only the destructive force but also the purifying and regenerative aspects. In the context of Purva Bhadrapada, this fiery essence takes on multifaceted roles, resonating with the rituals of funeral rites, the tumultuous energy of storms, and the mysterious realm of black magic and occult practices. Aja Ekapada, in its fiery form, becomes a symbol of transition, where the old dissolves to make way for the new.

Purva Bhadrapada intricately weaves together various elements, creating a complex narrative that bridges Hindu mythology with the intricacies of our physical and spiritual existence. The mention of spinal nerves, sacrificial altars, and guardians of goddesses adds layers of depth to this celestial story. The spinal nerves, conduits of electrical signals between the brain and the body, symbolize the interconnectedness of our physical and spiritual selves. The sacrificial altars evoke the idea of offering and surrender, essential elements in the journey of self-realization. Guardians of goddesses suggest protective forces that guide and shape our spiritual path.

The symbolism deepens with references to tiger skin, pillars, and the fiery red color. Tiger skin, traditionally associated with Lord Shiva, represents the conquest of fear and the taming of primal instincts. Pillars stand as symbols of support and stability, echoing the cosmic pillar of the universe upheld by Shiva in his dance. The fiery red color, reminiscent of Agni's flames, symbolizes the intensity of transformation and the dynamic energy inherent in Shiva's cosmic dance.

Science

The intersection of Vedic symbolism and modern scientific concepts unveils a captivating tapestry that bridges the ancient and the contemporary. This essay further explores the profound parallels between the cosmic dance of Nataraja and scientific phenomena like the Einstein-Rosen Bridge, the Higgs boson, and the cosmic dance of subatomic particles. The metaphorical connection crafted by Carl Sagan serves as a beacon, guiding us through the seamless integration of ancient wisdom with our evolving understanding of the cosmos

The Einstein-Rosen Bridge, often colloquially referred to as a wormhole, represents a hypothetical tunnel-like structure connecting two separate points in spacetime. In the dance of Nataraja, we find intriguing parallels with the concept of the cosmic dance of subatomic particles, where the rhythmic beat of Shiva's damaru symbolizes the underlying pulse of the universe and a bridge in space and time. The concept of a bridge that transcends the ordinary dimensions of space and time echoes the transcendental nature of Nataraja's dance, a cosmic ballet that extends beyond the boundaries of conventional understanding.

In Vedic symbolism, Nataraja's dance represents the eternal cycles of creation, preservation, and dissolution. The Einstein-Rosen Bridge, if ever realized, would serve as a cosmic conduit, allowing particles and perhaps even information to traverse vast cosmic distances instantaneously. The dance of Nataraja, likewise, serves as a bridge between the material and the spiritual, embodying the interconnectedness of all existence.

The Higgs boson, often dubbed the "God particle," is a subatomic particle that bestows mass upon other particles through the Higgs field. The Higgs boson, as a fundamental particle shaping the fabric of the universe, parallels Shiva's role in creating different seasons and rejuvenating life through the waxing and waning of the moon.

Nataraja's dance, representing the dissolution of the existing order and the eternal transformation of energy, aligns with the transformative nature of the Higgs boson. Both concepts speak to the fundamental aspects of existence, emphasizing the interconnectedness of particles and cosmic forces in shaping the universe's intricate dance.

The dance of subatomic particles, a mesmerizing ballet occurring at the quantum level, mirrors the celestial dance of Nataraja. As particles interact and exchange energy, creating a dynamic interplay, Shiva's dance resonates with the intricate choreography of the quantum realm. The damaru's rhythmic beat in Nataraja's hand finds its parallel in the pulsating nature of particles, creating waves and resonances that echo through the cosmos.

The concept of the cosmic dance of subatomic particles delves into the interconnectedness of all matter and energy, akin to the interconnected gestures and postures in Nataraja's dance. The dance becomes a metaphor for the underlying unity in the seemingly diverse and complex fabric of the universe, where every movement holds significance in the cosmic symphony.

Carl Sagan, a luminary in popularizing science, drew a metaphorical connection between the cosmic dance of Nataraja and the scientific understanding of the 'cosmic dance' of subatomic particles. Sagan's eloquent exploration aligns with the broader theme of the essay, highlighting the synergies between ancient wisdom and modern scientific inquiry. The metaphor invites us to contemplate the cosmic ballet on both macro and micro scales, emphasizing the unity that pervades the cosmos.

Sagan's metaphorical bridge between the dance of Shiva and the dance of particles serves as a testament to the enduring relevance of Vedic symbolism in contemporary scientific discourse. It prompts us to consider the possibility that the ancient seers, through their symbolic language, may have intuited truths about the nature of the universe that are only now being revealed through the lens of advanced scientific instruments and theories.

Mad Scientist Archetype

One intriguing facet of Purva Bhadrapada finds resonance with the archetypal figure of the 'Mad Scientist.' Delving into the layers of this Nakshatra, we discern how its inherent themes align with the characteristics commonly associated with the 'Mad Scientist' archetype.

Symbolized by the two-faced man, encapsulates the theme of duality. This duality is not merely a surface-level contrast but a profound exploration of contrasting energies coexisting within an individual. The 'Mad Scientist,' often portrayed as a genius teetering on the edge of sanity, mirrors this duality. The scientist's transformational experiments and unconventional pursuits underscore a journey into the realms of both brilliance and madness, akin to the cosmic dance of Purva Bhadrapada.

Aja Ekapada, embodies the fiery essence of unconventional thinking and innovation. The 'Mad Scientist,' driven by a relentless pursuit of knowledge and discovery, often defies societal norms and embraces uncharted territories in the pursuit of scientific breakthroughs. Purva Bhadrapada's influence fosters an environment where unconventional ideas are not only accepted but embraced as a means of unraveling hidden truths.

Purva Bhadrapada's connection with occult practices, black magic, and mystical realms draws parallels with the 'Mad Scientist's' often secretive and esoteric experiments. Both explore the boundaries of the known and the unknown, pushing the limits of human understanding. The Nakshatra's association with Aja Ekapada as a deity of funeral rites and storms aligns with the archetypal scientist's relentless pursuit of unlocking the mysteries of life and nature.

The 'Mad Scientist' archetype frequently grapples with the ethical implications of their experiments. Similarly, Purva Bhadrapada, with its two-faced symbolism, reflects the dual nature of morality. The Nakshatra challenges conventional notions of right and wrong, encouraging a deeper exploration of the shades of gray that exist in the pursuit of knowledge and power.

This Nakshatra's emphasis on transformation and the eternal dance of creation, preservation, and dissolution echoes the 'Mad Scientist's' quest to transform not only the world but themselves. The scientist's pursuit of knowledge often involves a personal transformation, blurring the lines between sanity and madness, mirroring the cyclical nature depicted in Purva Bhadrapada.

Purva Bhadrapada's connection with the sacrificial alter and its association with Aja Ekapada as a deity of storms and black magic aligns with the 'Mad Scientist's' often sacrificial commitment to their visionary pursuits. The archetype willingly sacrifices personal well-being and societal acceptance in their relentless pursuit of scientific knowledge, echoing the sacrificial undertones embedded in the Nakshatra's symbolism.

The enigmatic nexus between Purva Bhadrapada and the 'Mad Scientist' archetype unveils a shared terrain of duality, transformation, and unconventional exploration. Both embody a ceaseless dance between brilliance and madness, pushing the boundaries of human understanding.

In the realm of cinema, the portrayal of Robert De Niro (PBP Moon) and James McAvoy (PBP Ketu) in roles associated with the 'Mad Scientist' archetype serves as compelling examples of the enduring fascination with characters who delve into the boundaries of morality, creation, and the consequences of playing god. Robert De Niro's depiction as Frankenstein's monster in the film captures the essence of the 'Mad Scientist' archetype. Dr. Victor Frankenstein's relentless pursuit of scientific knowledge leads to the creation of a creature he seeks to destroy, only to face the repercussions of his actions as the monster returns with a thirst for revenge. The narrative unfolds the classic trope of a scientist grappling with the unintended consequences of tampering with the natural order.

Similarly, James McAvoy's portrayal in a film centered around Victor Frankenstein underscores the archetype's thematic complexity. In this iteration, Victor collaborates with Igor Strausman for groundbreaking research on immortality, a quest that propels them into the precarious realm of manipulating life and death. The narrative takes a horrific turn, reflecting the archetype's tendency to unleash forces beyond human control. Igor, recognizing the potential havoc, attempts to intervene, highlighting the ethical dilemmas that often accompany the 'Mad Scientist' as they tread on the thin line between scientific advancement and moral consequences. These cinematic portrayals stand as poignant reminders of the archetype's timeless allure, exploring the intricate dance between genius and the unforeseen repercussions of pushing the boundaries of scientific exploration.

Jekyll & Hyde Archetype

In the exploration of Purva Bhadrapada's deep symbolism reveals striking parallels with the dichotomy embodied by Dr Jekyll and his malevolent alter ego, Mr Hyde.

The central theme of Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde mirrors Purva Bhadrapada—the duality within a single individual. This Nakshatra encapsulates the idea that within the human psyche, contrasting energies coexist, often in an intricate dance that blurs the lines between good and evil. Dr Jekyll's internal struggle with his dual nature reflects the nuanced exploration of light and shadow inherent in Purva Bhadrapada.

Both Purva Bhadrapada and the Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde narrative revolve around the transformative power within. The Nakshatra's emphasis on creation, preservation, and dissolution aligns with Dr Jekyll's quest to transform his own nature. However, just as Purva Bhadrapada's dance entails a cycle of transformation, Dr Jekyll's experiments lead not only to his liberation but also to the release of the malevolent Mr Hyde, the embodiment of his darker impulses.

Purva Bhadrapada delves into the dual nature of morality, challenging conventional notions of right and wrong. Similarly, Dr Jekyll's experiment represents a bold foray into the blurred boundaries between societal morality and personal desires. The internal conflict faced by Dr Jekyll in resisting the temptations embodied by Mr Hyde echoes the Nakshatra's exploration of the fine line between righteousness and temptation.

The Nakshatra's association with Aja Ekapada, embodying fiery funeral rites and occult practices, parallels Dr Jekyll's unconventional scientific pursuits. Both delve into realms beyond the ordinary, challenging societal norms and exploring the mysteries that lie beneath the surface. The 'mad scientist' archetype, represented by Dr Jekyll in this context, aligns with Purva Bhadrapada's inclination toward unorthodox paths of knowledge.

There is a profound exploration of the consequences of unleashing inner demons. The malevolent aspects of the Nakshatra, symbolized by storms, black magic, and occult influences, find their counterpart in Mr Hyde's unrestrained malevolence. The collateral damage wrought by Dr Jekyll's experiments becomes a cautionary tale, underscoring the potential dangers of delving too deep into the mysteries of the self.

In the eternal cosmic dance symbolized by Purva Bhadrapada, we find echoes of Dr Jekyll's struggle, a timeless reminder that the exploration of one's depths is a venture fraught with both enlightenment and peril.

The cinematic landscape, adorned with diverse narratives, often unfolds tales that mirror the timeless archetype of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, encapsulating the nuanced exploration of dual personas within a single individual. In the Bollywood film "Chehre Pe Chehra," the enigmatic Rekha(PBP Moon) takes center stage in a narrative reminiscent of the classic duality of Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde. The storyline unravels the complexities of human nature, unveiling the transformation of characters and the consequences of inner conflict.

Similarly, Michael Caine (PBP Sun), in a Victorian era setting, personifies the archetype in a cinematic rendition where scientific experiments into the dual nature of man yield a personality-splitting drug. His portrayal echoes the timeless struggle with the darker facets of the human psyche, bringing forth the uninhibited brute, Mr Hyde, who seeks violent and undignified pleasures. Caine's performance exemplifies the enduring allure of the Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde archetype, showcasing the perpetual fascination with the exploration of contrasting elements within the human soul.

In a comedic twist, Eddie Murphy (PBP Mercury)'s character in a narrative involving genetics and self-experimentation provides a contemporary lens to the archetype. The transformation from an extremely overweight genetics professor to an obnoxious figure after experimenting with a slimming potion mirrors the transformative themes of the Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde archetype. The narrative delves into the consequences of tampering with one's physical form, drawing parallels to the eternal struggle between light and shadow within.

Bipasha Basu (PBP Ketu)'s portrayal in a film called Alone, where an evil spirit seeks to wreak havoc in the life of Sanjana, with connotations of sibling rivalry and jealousy, bears semblance to the archetype. The dual personas within the character reflect the intricate dance between good and malevolent forces, akin to the timeless narrative of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde.

In these cinematic examples, the Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde archetype persists as a timeless and captivating theme, transcending genres and cultures. Each portrayal underscores the fascination with the internal struggle, the consequences of self-experimentation, and the perpetual dance between conflicting facets of the human psyche.

Fallen Angel Archetype

After delving into the layers of Purva Bhadrapada's symbolism unveils striking parallels with the poignant narrative of celestial beings descending from grace—a theme intrinsic to the fallen angel archetype.

Purva Bhadrapada, mirrors the fallen angel's descent from celestial realms into the complexities of earthly existence. This Nakshatra encapsulates the idea that within the celestial and divine, dualities coexist, often leading to a profound journey of self-discovery and transformation. The fallen angel archetype, speaks to the intricacies of navigating through contrasting energies and the challenges posed by the earthly realm.

The fallen angel archetype often involves a narrative of temptation and rebellion against the divine order. Similarly, Purva Bhadrapada's association with Aja Ekapada, embodying fiery funeral rites, storms, and occult practices, suggests a journey marked by the allure of forbidden knowledge and a departure from established norms. The Nakshatra's exploration of the boundaries between morality and temptation resonates with the theme of celestial beings succumbing to earthly desires in the fallen angel narrative.

In the fallen angel archetype, the descent is often accompanied by themes of sacrifice and the potential for redemption. Purva Bhadrapada's connection with the sacrificial alter and its association with a form of Rudra, storms and black magic aligns with the archetype's emphasis on sacrifice as a means of grappling with the consequences of the descent. The possibility of redemption, a recurring motif in the fallen angel narrative, echoes the Nakshatra's transformative energy and the cyclical nature of creation, preservation, and dissolution

Both Purva Bhadrapada and the fallen angel archetype occupy a liminal space between the celestial and the earthly. The Nakshatra's dance, representing the eternal cycles of creation and dissolution, mirrors the fallen angel's journey of navigating the delicate balance between divine origins and the complexities of earthly existence. The archetype captures the essence of beings caught between realms, embodying a poignant struggle for self-discovery and spiritual evolution.

Purva Bhadrapada's symbolism emphasizes the liberation achieved through the descent into the earthly plane. The fallen angel archetype, too, explores the concept of liberation through the transformative journey of descending into the human experience.

Both of these narratives invite contemplation on the complexities of existence, the interplay between divine and earthly energies, and the eternal dance between temptation and redemption—a dance that echoes through the corridors of mythology and astrology, captivating the human imagination across cultures and epochs.

High Priestess Archetype

The High Priestess archetype embodies the essence of occult wisdom, esoteric knowledge, and an intuitive connection to the cosmic dance—a dance that Purva Bhadrapada orchestrates with its transformative energies and mystical allure.

This energy is marked by an innate intuitive insight. Individuals under this influence possess a deep connection to the unseen realms, navigating the cosmic dance with a heightened sensitivity to the energies that surround them. Like the high priestess who guards the threshold between worlds, those attuned to Purva Bhadrapada can peer into the veiled mysteries of existence.

Purva Bhadrapada is a repository of occult wisdom, and individuals embodying this archetype hold the keys to esoteric knowledge. They become the keepers of ancient secrets, wielding the transformative power inherent in the cosmic dance. There is a profound connection to sacred rituals and ceremonies. Aja Ekapada's association with funeral rites, storms, and occult practices aligns with the priestess's role in conducting rituals that bridge the mundane and the divine. Purva Bhadrapada becomes a cosmic altar where transformative energies are harnessed through sacred rites.

This archetype mirrors the Nakshatra's dance of creation, preservation, and dissolution, revealing the cyclical nature of spiritual evolution. The priestess guides the seeker through the labyrinthine paths of transformation, facilitating a journey into the depths of the soul.

Purva Bhadrapada unfolds its cosmic dance through the lens of the mysterious high priestess archetype. It invites individuals to explore the depths of intuition, occult wisdom, and transformative energies, guiding them through the sacred rituals of spiritual evolution.

To be continued ..

[talonabraxas]

Nataraja – The Cosmic Dancer Talon Abraxas At the point of Maha-Pralaya, creation ends when manifestation is withdrawn back into the Great Void. This is when Lord Shiva releases the destructive energies to dismantle all of the creation by performing a cosmic dance known as Shiva Tandav. This form of Shiva as a cosmic dancer is known as Nataraja.

While there are 19 different avatar of Shiva, however, ���Nataraja’ is not an avatar but Lord Shiva himself as the divine dancer.

Nataraja is Shiva during the apocalypse dances called the cosmic dance of Shiva “tandav,” symbolizing the interplay of dynamic and static divine energy flow, which contains five principles of eternal energy- creation, preservation, destruction, illusion, and emancipation. As science states’ energy can neither be created nor destroyed, the destruction initiated by Shiva with his cosmic dance is a medium for recreation, and the cycle never ends.

His cosmic dance in an aureole of fire, causing wild thunderstorms all around the world, and not only the earth is affected, but also the Sun, the Moon, and the stellar bodies with his matted hair, marks of ash on forehead, the damaru, and trident. He lifts his left leg balancing the right above a demon of ignorance.

Nataraja, Nataraja, Jai Shiva Shankara Nataraja Shivaraja, Shivaraja, Shambho Shankara Shivaraja

Meaning : Victory to Shiva, the Lord of the divine cosmic dance that crushes and ends all evil.

[achyutapriya]

जटा टवी गलज्जलप्रवाह पावितस्थले गलेऽव लम्ब्यलम्बितां भुजंगतुंग मालिकाम्‌।डमड्डमड्डमड्डमन्निनाद वड्डमर्वयं चकारचण्डताण्डवं तनोतु नः शिव: शिवम्‌ ||

With his neck consecrated by the flow of water that flows from his hair, And on his neck a snake, which is hung like a garland, And the Damaru drum that emits the sound "Damat Damat Damat Damat", Lord Shiva did the auspicious dance of Tandava. May he give prosperity to all of us.

[Happy Father's Day to the universal father💙💙]

[santoschristos]

Shiva as Lord of Dance (Nataraja)

“His form is everywhere: all-pervading in His Shiva-Shakti

Chidambaram is everywhere, everywhere His dance:

As Shiva is all and omnipresent,

Everywhere is Shiva’s gracious dance made manifest.

His five-fold dances are temporal and timeless.

His five-fold dances are His Five Activities.

By His Grace He performs the five acts,

This is the sacred dance of Uma-Sahaya.

He dances with W ater, Fire, W ind and Ether,

Thus our Lord dances ever in the court.

Our Lord dances His eternal dance.

The form of the Shakti is all delight—

This united delight is Uma’s body:

This form of Shakti arising in time

And uniting the twain is the dance”

His body is Akash, the dark cloud therein is Muyalaka,

The eight quarters are His eight arms,

The three lights are His three eyes,

Thus becoming, He dances in our body as the congregation.”

This is His dance. Its deepest significance is felt when it is realized that it takes place within the heart and

the self. Everywhere is God: that Everywhere is the heart.

Holding Agni (fire) in his left back hand, the front hand in gajahasta (elephant hand) or dandahasta (stick hand) mudra, the front right hand with a wrapped snake that is in abhaya (fear not) mudra while pointing to a Sutra text, and the back hand holding a musical instrument, usually a damaru. His body, head, face, neck, ears & dress are shown decorated with symbolic items, which vary with historic period & region.

He is surrounded by a ring of flames, standing on a lotus pedestal, lifting his left leg and balancing / trampling upon a demon shown as a dwarf who symbolizes ignorance. The dynamism of the energetic dance is depicted with the whirling hair which spread out in thin strands as a fan behind his head.

Om Namah Shivaya ~ Jai Nataraj

[ididntorderthesoup]

"Modern physics describes matter not as passive and inert, but as continuously dancing and vibrating. Physicists speak of the continuous dance of subatomic particles and use the words “dance of creation“ and “energy dance.” When we look at a sculpture of the dancing Shiva, the Nataraja, this description of the physicists comes forcibly to mind. The Nataraja is the personification of this cosmic dance. Modern photographic techniques have been able to project the particle tracks emanating from the dancing image of Shiva. This image is a concrete symbol of the great principle that the seers tried to portray—that life is a rhythmic interplay of birth and death, creation and destruction. Scientists have shown this in their particle accelerators. Shiva’s cosmic dance depicts the mad gyrations of energy particles. His damaru beats to the rhythm of the cosmic vibrations, and his energy, or shakti, is activated by the Divine Mother, personified by many goddesses in the Hindu pantheon, including Durga and Parvati. The Divine Mother is the enchantress who creates and nourishes and gives suck to all beings, human and subhuman. All are infants of this Divine Mother."

-Shiva: Stories and Teachings from the Shiva Mahapurana by Vanamali

[itsmarjudgelove]

Mokuso 黙想 is Meditation. The first character Damaru 黙る, means to be silent. The second character Omou 想うmeans to think. Mokuso as one word is also translated as silent contemplation.

[lilavatilikeslemons]

Sire of Dance

"who is that?" Someone asked.

"The very essence that embodies what makes this wonderful art- wonderful." The other answered.

Oh, his form was wonderous.

The damaru held in his hand made melodies unheard.

As they all watched in awe, his graceful self- only then, did they realise their fault.

As his anklets chimed in the way he danced, they all watched on.

Everything came to a standstill.

Everything.

Every single being that witnessed him- froze in reverence.

Nataraja, they called him.

For he, was the Sire of Dance.

-----

Shubh Mahashivratri, everyone!

Here's a Lil thing I whipped up in the honour of this occasion ^^

Hope y'all like it!

Stay safe, healthy and hydrated!

Have a good one!

[mneel]

Shiv Tandav Stotram - Lyrics and Meaning:

With his neck consecrated by the flow of water that flows from his hair,

And on his neck a snake, which is hung like a garland,

And the Damaru drum that emits the sound "Damat Damat Damat Damat",

Lord Shiva did the auspicious dance of Tandava. May he give prosperity to all of us.

I have a deep interest in Shiva

Whose head is glorified by the rows of moving waves of the celestial Ganga river,

Which stir in the deep well of his hair in tangled locks.

Who has the brilliant fire burning on the surface of his forehead,

And who has the crescent moon as a jewel on his head.

May my mind seek happiness in Lord Shiva,

In whose mind all the living beings of the glorious universe exist,

Who is the companion of Parvati (daughter of the mountain king),

Who controls unsurpassed adversity with his compassionate gaze, Which is all-pervading

And who wears the Heavens as his raiment.

May I find wonderful pleasure in Lord Shiva, who is the advocate of all life,

With his creeping snake with its reddish brown hood and the shine of its gem on it

Spreading variegated colors on the beautiful faces of the Goddesses of the Directions,

Which is covered by a shimmering shawl made from the skin of a huge, inebriated elephant.

[mahayanapilgrim]

YESHE TSOGYAL OF OUR TIME

When in her early 40s, she (Khandro Choechen) had a vision of Avalokitesvara, the bodhisattva of compassion, calling her to come beside him. So she decided to go to India to meet the 14th Dalai Lama, the emanation of Avalokitesvara. According to her own account, the first time she obtained an audience with the Dalai Lama, as one of many other Tibetans who had recently arrived in Dharamsala, he took her hand for a while, telling her to come back soon. A week later, a car was sent to the Reception Centre, where she was staying together with other recent refugees from Tibet, to take her to His Holiness' palace. There he asked her if she could remember her previous incarnations, but she had to decline. However, from this moment on, the Dalai Lama took special care of her, giving her accommodation and the necessary subsidies. From this day on also, rumours about her began to circulate, to the effect that she might be a mkha' 'gro ma, (Khandroma) a living dakini.

Because Mkha' 'gro chos spyan (Khandro Choechen) had no memories of her previous lives, the Dalai Lama asked a renowned visionary, Sga rje Khams sprul Rinpoche (Garje Khamtrul) (b.1928), if he could confirm her identity. So he did. One night, during an intensive meditation session, he had an encounter with a nun whom he perceived as Ye shes mtsho rgyal (Yeshe Tsogyal) reciting for him the lineage of Mkha' 'gro chos spyan (including herself). The next morning, he wrote his vision down, in the form of a poem, which he brought to the Dalai Lama for confirmation. After having approved the lineage thus envisioned, the Dalai-lama invited Mkha' 'gro chos spyan to his palace again where he gave her a special Guru Padmasambhava hat, as well as a complete set of religious objects (a bell, a damaru and so forth).

~ (Self-Representation and Stories Told: the Life and Vicissitudes of Khandro Choechen by Nicola Schneider.)

[pumpkin-wants-a-cherry-scone]

Re: tokyo mew mew AU

so I changed the whole thing pretty much BUT.

Her animal is still a forest owlet, but her fruit is mangosteen. I changed things to fit mangosteen (quick drawing of mangosteen depicted on the left; ignore my attempt at a star fruit next to it. I was brainstorming)

Name: Mew Mango (not mangosteen cause that's too long to say :p) (slightly confusing) (I guess the whole thing is fine) (idk) (if anyone feels compelled you can create your own name I'd love to hear one) (I'm not being sarcastic)

Weapon: Da-mango-maru (instrument is a damaru)

Attack: ribbon mangostaan-u storm-o (or smthn)? (unsure on how well storm and the damaru match. but maybe the sound of the drum could be like rain?)

@ebbpettier

apologies that I took a month. I hope you have not perished

not sure where her mew mark would be? maybe on her back (like mint). I'm slightly tempted to have it on her knee/back of her knee lol

it's probably obvious, but none of this is set in stone

redrew this picture of mint:

[brown-spider]

The Spider Gang as Pokemon trainers:

Peter B: Bug/Normal

Miles:Bug/Electric

Gwen:Bug/Fairy

Pav:Bug/Fire

Hobie:Bug/Fighting

Noir:Bug/Dark

(That’s all for right now. Feel free to suggest more if you want!!)

These are all objectively correct except- might I suggest Bug/Psychic for Pav 👀

The way he does tricks with that bracelet/damaru and thinks he's Very Good At Reading People

[talonabraxas]

Nataraja – The Cosmic Dancer 💫 Talon Abraxas

At the point of Maha-Pralaya, creation ends when manifestation is withdrawn back into the Great Void. This is when Lord Shiva releases the destructive energies to dismantle all of the creation by performing a cosmic dance known as Shiva Tandav. This form of Shiva as a cosmic dancer is known as Nataraja.

While there are 19 different avatar of Shiva, however, ‘Nataraja’ is not an avatar but Lord Shiva himself as the divine dancer.

Nataraja is Shiva during the apocalypse dances called the cosmic dance of Shiva “tandav,” symbolizing the interplay of dynamic and static divine energy flow, which contains five principles of eternal energy- creation, preservation, destruction, illusion, and emancipation. As science states’ energy can neither be created nor destroyed, the destruction initiated by Shiva with his cosmic dance is a medium for recreation, and the cycle never ends.

His cosmic dance in an aureole of fire, causing wild thunderstorms all around the world, and not only the earth is affected, but also the Sun, the Moon, and the stellar bodies with his matted hair, marks of ash on forehead, the damaru, and trident. He lifts his left leg balancing the right above a demon of ignorance.

Nataraja, Nataraja, Jai Shiva Shankara Nataraja Shivaraja, Shivaraja, Shambho Shankara Shivaraja

Meaning : Victory to Shiva, the Lord of the divine cosmic dance that crushes and ends all evil.

[kstellanova]

Damarus enjoying a nice fall day.

[santoschristos]

Shiva as Lord of Dance (Nataraja)

Hinduism believes that Lord Shiva has many guises & representations. But perhaps the most familiar iconography is the dancing figure within a circle of fire, that is "Nataraja".

The word "Nataraja" is derived from the Sanskrit term, Nata ( नट ) which means dance & Raja ( राज ) which means king or lord. This dance form of Shiva is widely called as "Nataraja" in southern india mostly in Tamilnadu & "Natesavara" in Northen india. Both means the same, The King or Lord of dance.

The divine dance that lord Shiva Nataraja performing is referred to as "Ananda Tandavam", The cosmic dance of bliss. It is believed that the dynamic energy of Nataraja can eradicate old negative patterns limiting our potential & remove the bad effects of Karma. The gesture of his cosmic dance represent lord shiva's five divine activities - Creation, Protection, Destruction, Embodiment & Release.

The style & proportions of the Nataraj is a symbolic of Shiva as the lord of dance. It typically shows Shiva dancing in one of the pose as per Hindu "Naatya Shastra".

Holding Agni (fire) in his left back hand, the front hand in gajahasta (elephant hand) or dandahasta (stick hand) mudra, the front right hand with a wrapped snake that is in abhaya (fear not) mudra while pointing to a Sutra text, and the back hand holding a musical instrument, usually a damaru. His body, head, face, neck, ears & dress are shown decorated with symbolic items, which vary with historic period & region.

He is surrounded by a ring of flames, standing on a lotus pedestal, lifting his left leg and balancing / trampling upon a demon shown as a dwarf who symbolizes ignorance. The dynamism of the energetic dance is depicted with the whirling hair which spread out in thin strands as a fan behind his head.

This dance form of Shiva, Nataraja has been perhaps the wide spread worshipping icon in Hinduism, especially in "Chidambaram", a town in Tamilnadu ( southern india ) where Hindu Legend tells that Lord shiva once performed his dance of creation & destruction in a Grove of "Thillai" trees.

Om Namah Shivaya ~ Jai Nataraj

Original Post: The Shiva Tribe

[ididntorderthesoup]

SIGNIFICANCE OF LORD SHIVA

by Maha Yogi Paramahamsa Dr. Rupnathji

Shiva is the experiencer and the highest object of experience. Shiva is the goal of Sadhana. There is nothing apart from Shiva. There is nothing other than Shiva. Whatever there is, is Shiva. There is nothing, which is not Shiva. There is no place, which is not Shiva. There is no time, which is not Shiva. To be aware of this is to be aware of Shiva.

Shiva (Sanskrit: Śiva, lit. the auspicious one) is one of the principal deities of Hinduism. He is the supreme god within Shaivism, one of the three most influential denominations in contemporary Hinduism.

Shiva is "the transformer" within the Trimurti, the Hindu trinity that includes Brahma and Vishnu. In Shaivism tradition, Shiva is the Supreme being who creates, protects and transforms the universe. In the goddess tradition of Hinduism called Shaktism, the goddess is described as supreme. A goddess is stated to be the energy and creative power (Shakti) of each, with Parvati the equal complementary partner of Shiva, Lakshmi, Vishnu and Saraswati of Brahma.

At the highest level, Shiva is regarded as formless, limitless, transcendent and unchanging absolute Brahman, and the primal Atman (soul, Self) of the universe. Shiva has many benevolent and fearsome depictions. In benevolent aspects, he is depicted as an omniscient Yogi who lives an ascetic life on Mount Kailash as well as a householder with wife Parvati and his two children, Ganesha and Kartikeya. In his fierce aspects, he is often depicted slaying demons. Shiva is also known as Adiyogi Shiva regarded as the patron god of yoga, meditation and arts.

Shivaism is essentially a nature religion, through ritual, offering alignment and coordination with subtle beings and supernatural forces. Shiva rules magic and the occult. Shiva is the god of the left hand path. The dark, lunar path of Tantriks: of the ritual use of sex, wine, and meat…of intoxication and ecstasy.

Shiva is a protector of those on the fringes of society, of everything chaotic, and dangerous, the unexpected and un-explainable. He is god of the humble (shudras), outcasts and criminals. A protector of animals and trees.

Shiva’s son Ganesha, is the lord of the ganas…the nature spirits: gnomes, goblins, gremlins and z, (smaller more focused devas, that abound in every aspect of nature.) Ganesh is universally, invoked first in any ritual, to propitiate the spirits of the earth, before calling forth the heavenly gods.

The main iconographical attributes of Shiva are the third eye on his forehead, the serpent around his neck, the adorning crescent moon, the holy river Ganga flowing from his matted hair, the trishula (trident) as his weapon and the damaru (drum). Shiva is usually worshiped in the form of Lingam. Shiva is a pan-Hindu deity, revered widely across India, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bali.