#Scripture Study Techniques

[pastordin]

Job: Suffering and Faith through Canon Sense

Job: Suffering and Faith through Canon Sense | Pastor Aamir and Carissa Din Home | Media | Contact Job: Suffering and Faith through Canon Sense “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me.” — Psalm 28:7 (NIV) Introduction The Book of Job occupies a profound place within the wisdom literature of the Bible, grappling with the enduring questions of human…

[trberman]

Doctrine and Covenants Section 1:1-10 Exegetical Commentary, Margin Notes, and Highlight Recommendations

 Background and Context Doctrine and Covenants 1 was received on November 1, 1831, in Hiram, Ohio, as a preface to the Book of Commandments, which later became the Doctrine and Covenants. The revelation came during a conference where leaders of the Church were preparing to publish the revelations Joseph Smith had received. The Lord dictated this preface, making it the only section explicitly…

[mindfulldsliving]

Unveiling Modern Theophany: Joseph Smith's First Vision and Ancient Biblical Encounters

The First Vision, by Del Parson Joseph Smith’s First Vision stands as a pivotal moment in the history of the Church, comparable to significant prophetic encounters found in ancient scriptures. How does this modern theophany deepen our understanding of personal revelation and divine communication? In this post, I’ll explore the layers of Joseph’s experience within the context of biblical events,…

[epicstoriestime]

The Art of Sacred Listening: A Reflection on Christian Lectio Divina

Christian Lectio Divina There’s a rhythm to life, isn’t there? A melody hidden beneath the noise, waiting for us to pause and hear it. The ancient practice of Lectio Divina invites us to tune into this divine harmony, blending meditation, prayer, and sacred listening. It’s a method not just for reading scripture but for experiencing it—letting it breathe through us, change us, and draw us closer…

[lilianasgrimoire]

Witchcraft 101: An Introductory Post

What is Witchcraft?

Witchcraft is the practice of magick. It's a series of techniques one uses to harness and/or manipulate energies externally or internally to change one's surroundings of circumstances as well as themselves. This can be done through using herbs, stones, crystals, and other materials.

Witchcraft can, and is, performed in a plethora of ways. It can be done through meditation, spell work, rituals or even baking and cooking. Witchcraft is as unique as you are. To practice witchcraft you do not need a religion, however most people practice witchcraft to feel more connected to their chosen religion. Witchcraft is as unique as the individual demonstrating it.

What makes someone a witch?

A witch is a person who practices magick. Witches can come from any background, any age, race or gender and religion. The term 'witch' is a gender-neutral, universal name. A being who claims the title may do what they desire with the craft. There are many types of witches, all of which are nature based. Not all witches are interested in the same type practise, however. One may prefer the study and use of crystals, and another being drawn to divination or even one of the elements.

A witch is neither good or bad, as they are only human.

There aren't any rules to being a witch (unless your religion states otherwise). Whilst you don't have to be religious to be a witch, most witches who practise, are most commonly Wiccan.

What is Paganism?

Pagan is an umbrella term for the many non-Abrahamic religions. This included Hinduism, Wicca, Buddhism, Sikhism, etc. However, not a lot of people fall into a specific type of religion that comes under paganism but still believe in & worship more than one God/Goddess or Greater being such as the elements, for example. Many, if not most, witches, fall under the Wiccan religion.

Paganism, across all sub-genres, follow holidays/festivals, and in many religions, many they follow The Eight Sabbats, or Wheel of the Year. The Sabbats, depending on the religion, have slight variations in terms of rituals, timing and practicing of the holidays i.e. which God/Goddess is associated, traditional colours or foods. It also is up to the individual as to what they do and don't want to celebrate.

"All Wiccans are witches, but not all witches are wiccan. All Wiccans are Pagan, but not all Pagans are Witches."

Religion VS. Spirituality

Religion and spirituality are often meshed together and difficult to differentiate the two. Some people believe there is a blurred line between them, whereas another may believe they are two completely different topics.

So, how can we tell the two apart?

Religion is an institutionalised system of certain attitudes, practises and beliefs; often the service or worship of a greater being than ones self or the supernatural. A religion is often based upon life lessons and teachings of a historical or archetypal figure. Typically, there is a place of worship, such as churches, temples, mosques and cathedrals. Religion is a structured organised system that is heavily rule based with it's main focus on the faith of the religion (scriptures of being infallible and ultimate or truth. Acceptance and the surrender to the Divine are taught as the path to complete and ultimate salvation. Religion is one path for all to follow.

Spirituality is a connection that one has to something that is much larger than yourself. Spirituality is an aspect of humanity where an individual seeks and expresses meaning and purpose through the connection they experience to a moment. People who are spiritually awakened liv4e life in a reverent and sacred manner. Yoga, meditation and contemplation all help a person to start, progress and explore their journey. Many use these practices to reach out to their spirit guides, past lives and even advice from outside forces. Each journey is unique. Spirituality is often referred to as a "pathless path". Spirituality is about following your own path and learning, growing, loving and acceptance on a more personal level. Unlike religion, spiritualists do not follow a set of rules n regards to their inward journey but, faith is not dismissed and entirely acceptable to incorporate with spirituality.

[pathsofart]

The painting presented is "Saint Jerome in Meditation", by Caravaggio, dated 1605. The work depicts Saint Jerome, one of the fathers of the Church, in a moment of reflection and penance.

Features of the Work:

Tenebrism:

The painting is marked by the intense use of chiaroscuro, a technique characteristic of Caravaggio, which intensifies the drama and emotion of the scene.

Realism:

Caravaggio portrays Saint Jerome with realism, showing his advanced age and the fragility of his body.

Symbolism:

The skull and the book are symbols of mortality and knowledge, respectively, elements that reinforce the theme of meditation and penance.

Historical Context:

Baroque:

The work is part of the context of the Baroque, an artistic movement that sought to express intense emotions and the drama of the human condition.

Caravaggio:

Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, known as Caravaggio, was one of the great masters of the Baroque, famous for his innovative and realistic style.

Interpretation:

The painting invites us to reflect on life, death and the importance of spiritual seeking. Saint Jerome, with his concentrated gaze and humble posture, represents the ideal of a man who dedicates himself to faith and the study of the scriptures.

Note: The painting is currently in the Montserrat Museum in Spain.

[gladstones-corner]

I usually avoid YouTube these days for a multitude of reasons, but recently I discovered a channel called ReligionForBreakfast. The host, Dr. Andrew Mark Henry, is a Ph.D. of Religious Studies from Boston University. He covers a wide range of topics on his channel, but I'm going to focus on just one today: "What is the Best Bible Translation?"

I won't give you a play by play; that would be redundant at best and insulting to his work at worst. Please just give the video a watch--it's about an hour but it's worth it.

Let's lay some groundwork: Dr. Henry focuses primarily on the Protestant Christian Bible, given that there are a proliferation of English translations. By contrast, the Roman Catholic Bible contains one official English translation. He also mentions the major English translation of the Hebrew Bible, the JPS Tanakh.

I was raised in a Protestant Christian family. Therefore, my comments here will mostly reflect my opinions on the Protestant Christian translations. I lack the proper context for the Roman Catholic and Hebrew Bibles, so I won't be commenting on them here.

Okay, with the preliminaries out of the way, let's get started.

It's extremely interesting that Dr. Henry doesn't discredit any of the major translations. Instead, he makes a distinction between translations designed for critical, scholarly Bible analysis and translations designed to impart doctrinal teachings. I'll call these translation camps "critical" and "denominational" here.

No, Dr. Henry remains mostly neutral on the subject of critical and denominational translations. He points out clearly that--except for the KJV--the big modern translations, regardless of camp, were written by biblical scholars using wide-ranging critical techniques.

While Dr. Henry's neutrality is admirable (and definitely from a more experienced place than my own), I elect to be a bit biased on this topic.

Let me be clear: I think that any translation whose authors willingly sacrifice critical, ecumenical interpretation in favor of one or a few denominations' doctrinal teachings is invalid. This includes, but is certainly not limited to, the ESV and NIV.

And now we reach the KJV. Dr. Henry points out in his video that this translation is based on a much older set of scriptures--primarily the Bishop's Bible--and was revised based on the commonly accepted scholarly standards of the day.

While Dr. Henry essentially defends the KJV's existence as "doing the best with what you have", he does point out that it is one of the weakest in terms of accuracy. Again, his choice to remain neutral is admirable--and likely more correct--but I will not do the same.

The KJV is my least favorite translation of the Christian Bible by--at the very least--a country mile. I could devote an entire post to how disastrous the KJV and its consequences have been to global society. However, I'll constrain myself to the following comments: not only was the translation itself politically motivated, but it was based on translations that were also politically motivated. Further, in the last 400 years, our understanding of--and access to--biblical texts has greatly increased, such that the KJV is now an outdated relic.

So, what does Dr. Henry recommend as far as scholarly analysis goes? The NRSV. This is the preferred translation among biblical scholars of the Christian Tradition, whether Protestant or Catholic (the NRSV has editions with the deuterocanon).

The NRSV was translated by a diverse committee of different faiths--even including Harry Orlinski, who was the editor-in-chief of the NJPS Torah. The committee strove for an academic translation that was faithful to the meaning of the text as it existed within historical context while retaining modern scholarly discussion and consensus.

This is my favorite translation of the Christian Bible as well. However, it's not without its own quirks. For example, the move to use gender inclusive language wherever inferred is admirable--for example, when using language for God, or when Paul writes to the members of various churches. But, in some cases the translators erred a bit, obscuring what would normally be a clearer turn of phrase in ancient Hebrew or Koine Greek. But in all honesty, I'd take a translation that erred on the side of inclusivity than exclusivity any day.

At the end of the day, translations of the Christian Bible necessarily must take into account a polyglot's view. Finding the most ancient sources of a biblical text is critical, but most of our contextualization and explanation of these texts happen after the fact, usually through the study of major thinkers.

In the Christian world, that would be people like Augustine, Aquinas, and others; though I would argue that Christians should also read Maimonides and Spinoza, among others, as the Jewish context cannot be lost when reading these texts or else the whole exercise becomes moot.

All of that is to say, I'm cranky over how the Hebrew Bible has been bastardized over the years. To a lesser extent I'm cranky over how the Christian Bible--namely the Christian New Testament--has also been shredded and bastardized to fit narrow, bigoted viewpoints.

But as an armchair scholar, I'm so glad there are people out there like Dr. Henry who make centuries of biblical analysis and teaching easier to digest. They help me overcome several hurdles that I would have absolutely tripped over in my research--even to the point of wanting to give up (trust me, I've been there once or twice with Augustine).

Thank you for reading. As always, stay safe and stay tuned. Blessings to you and yours~

[sifu-kisu]

History of Tan Tui

Tan T'ui or Spring Leg 譚腿 / 潭腿 / 彈腿- This style could be one of the oldest styles that is still widely practiced today. In the past, it was required that all high schools have physical education and that Tan T'ui be part of its curriculum. Every student had to learn Tan T'ui before they could graduate in China. During the Sung Dynasty, Tan T'ui was regarded as a complete style. The techniques within the set were all practical and easily used. There are many versions on the origin of the style.

The first theory is recorded in the text, Liu Ho Style by an unknown author. It states that Liu Ho Style uses Tan T'ui as one of their basic foundation sets because it contains only a few moves and is easy to learn. There is a section on the origins of Tan T'ui. It states "There was a monk out preaching and traveling. On the road he saw two roosters fighting. The red rooster was larger than the white skinny rooster. After a while, the white rooster was losing and tried running away. The red rooster gave chase. The white rooster ran to the base of a hill which was a dead end and could not run any further. The red rooster caught up. Having no choice, the white rooster sprang up and struck the red rooster with both its talons. The red rooster fell down dead with its belly cut open. Seeing this, the monk thought, `If a man could practice so his legs were strong, it would be the same as a weak person overcoming the strong'. After a few years of study, he developed the ten (10) rows of Tan T'ui.

Second Theory: The Chinese Moslems or the Hui give credit to a Hui native of Xinjiang, Chamir (Cha Shang Yir) (1568 A.D - 1644 A.D.) as the creator of Tan T'ui Style. During the prime of his life on the coast of Fukein, Japanese pirates were raiding the coast. The government of the Ming Dynasty ordered their troops to the coast to battle against the Japanese pirates. Chamir joined the army and was assigned to go south. As the soldiers were marching down the coast under harsh conditions, Chamir was taken ill in a mountain village, Liaocheng, in Guanxian County, in Shangtung Province and was left behind to recuperate. The local peasants treated him until he was well. Chamir repaid their kindness by teaching the Twenty-eight (28) Rows of Tan T'ui (Spring Legs) which he devised and performed for many years. The boxing style consisted of 28 routines, which were put in alphabetical order, according to the Arabic language commonly used by the Hui. The monks at the nearby Shandong Long Tan Temple learned of the Tan Tui system from the locals and later incorporated it into their fighting routines that they practiced. Later the Twenty-eight (28) Rows were condensed into Ten (10) Rows of Tan T'ui (Spring Legs).

This is indeed an interesting information except the fact that there was no Hui Muslims (Chinese Muslims) in Xinjiang During Ming Dynasty, they came to Xinjiang after the Qing Dynasty invasion of Xinjiang in 19th century. The name "Xinjiang itself was introduced by Chinese invaders in 1884. Secondly, his Chinese name was Cha Shang Yir, which to me does not sound like a real Chinese name but rather a Chinese translation of his name. His Muslim name was Chamir but I don't see how the Chinese would get Cha Shang Yir from that... I think Cha Mu Er would seem more likely. So now I am wondering two things. First do the Hui take Muslim names or just use their Chinese name? Second if Chamir was his Muslim name and Cha Shang Yir was his Chinese name did he have a third name that was his birth name?

Besides, the article mentioned that he used Arabic scripture which was used by Uighurs at that time and still being used today. From this analysis, he might be a Uighur, or by a remote chance an Uzbek or Tatar. If the name "Chamir" is correctly translated into English, he cannot be a Hui moslem. Well then that pretty much proves that he could not be Hui and therefore he did not exist and the Muslim did not create Tan Tui as many current people believe is true.

Third Theory: Many people assumed the first character in Tan T'ui was the surname 譚 of the creator of the style. This would translate into Tan's Legs Style. As the story goes, Tan was very good fighter from Henan and had developed these set of techniques. his skill was deep and abundant, he defeated all challengers. His students who taught his method therefore used “Tan” in the name. He is credited as the individual who brought the style to the Shao lin Monastery. Others say he is credited as the first one who brought the style out from the Shao lin Monastery. The Shaolin version mentioned earlier uses a different “tan” altogether (彈), meaning “springy”, “snapping”, or “to shoot”, describing a quality of the kicking rather than a source of the system.

Fourth Theory: Shaolin's Tan Tui is given credit to Monk Xian Ji who while in residence at the temple in Ling Qing Tan Temple in Shandong Province during the Ming Dynasty. It is said that he traded Shaolin's famous Lohan Fist routine for their Tan Tui routine. Also, Xian Ji is said to have also added an additional 2 roads to the original 10 Road Tan Tui Routine.

Fifth Theory: Tang Dynasty. The city of Ling Qing is situated between the warring factions of the Song, Liao and Jin Courts. An infantry solider named Kun Lung Dai Shi took refuge in the Lung Tan Temple located within Ling Qing City. Becoming a Monk at this temple Kun Lung formulated the routine Tan Tui (Pond Legs) with 10 Roads. It is said that this set was created in order to counter the Liao & Jin's superior upper body grappling skills. Ling Qing City became a major trading center due to the Canals built during the Yuan Dynasty. For this reason, it is believed that Tan Tui was able to spread throughout China.

The Sixth and last theory states that the word, Tan(潭} is the abbreviation for a monastery in Shangtung Province called Lung T'an Ssu (山東龍潭寺). The founder of Tan T'ui has been attributed to a monk named Hsuan Kung. He was known to have travelled widely in the northern part of China. He was searching for simple movements in exercises to form an elementary base. After much time, he returned to Lung T'an Monastery and reflected on his observations. Hsuan Kung later developed ten (10) rows of techniques for both left and right sides and it contained approximately one hundred and fifty (150) movements.

Although scholars have argued that the last theory is probably the correct origin for Tan T'ui Style, there exist two (2) problems in their argument and can only be solved by indirect proof. First, there was no monastery found or recorded in the Shantung Province and secondly the Lung T'an Monastery is located in the Honan Province. It is common knowledge that the geography does change over a period of time. Almost one thousand years has passed since the origin of Tan T'ui and unfortunately much of the physical and man-made surrounding in Shantung Province have changed and or no longer in existence. Because of this, there is little or no physical evidence to show that there once stood a Lung T'an Monastery. Also, with the rise and fall of different dynasties, the burning of books was a common ritual. Any recorded history of a Lung T'an Monastery in Shantung Province could have been destroyed. The most logical theory on the origin of Tan T'ui is that the Shao lin Monastery in Honan Province is located near a lake called Lung and on the other side of the lake is a monastery called Lung T'an. Tan T'ui could have originated in this monastery and very easily have crossed the lake to the Shao lin Monastery.

In recent history, Chin Woo Association was the first Public Gymnasium founded (in 1910) for the purpose of making Martial Arts training available to anyone (who could pay). The recognized founder was Huo Yun Jia, an exponent of the Mizong System. Part of this system was a version of the 10 Road Tan Tui that Huo Yun Jia demonstrated often. Due to his sudden death not many of his students had the opportunity to learn this version. Chao Lien Ho was hired to head up the organization and as part of his task he formulated a specific curriculum. While an exponent of Mizong he also had studied various Shaolin based systems as well. The first form required to be studied by beginner students is a 12 Road Tan Tui. While it is not sure where this version comes from, it has become the most popular version taught throughout the Chinese Martial Arts due to the fame of the Chin Woo. It is thought Chao Lien Ho took the 10 Road Mizong Tan Tui and evolved it into the current12 Road Chin Woo Version.

To add to the confusion, the school of Honan Shaolin states their oral history says Tan Tui came from a student named Ji Xiang Tan (济相潭) and he brought Tan Tui to Shaolin during the Ming Dynasty. Their Tan Tui set was named Xiang Ji Tan Tui 相济潭腿.

Two-person Tan Tui was created by Chao Lien Ho in the Jing Mo Association and became part of their curriculum in 1915. Rare chart of 12 row is shown here:

Summary

In general, there are styles that practice different versions of Tan Tui. Historically, 10 row is believed to be the first set (originated in the Longtan Temple in Shandong Province and was created by Master Kun Lun.). This Tan Tui is called Linging Tan Tui. Generally, BSL teaches 10 rows, Mi Jong teaches 10 rows, Northern styles such as Eagle Claw who are connected to Jing Mo teach 12 rows. Huo Yuen Chia brought his 10-row version from Mi Jong and added with the help of other Northern masters such as BSL, Eagle Claw, Cha, Mi Jong, etc.) two rows to the 10-row version. Seven Star Praying Mantis teaches 14 rows (credit to Master Lo Kwan Yu), A Wu Tang School in Taiwan teaches a 16 row, and Ch'a style teaches a 28 row. There are also a Shaolin Tan Tui developed by Ji Xiang Tan (济相潭) in the Ming Dynasty who brought Tan Tui to Shaolin. By combining Kun Lun's version with Lohan and added two more rows, the 12-row set was named Xiang Ji Tan Tui 相济潭腿. And there is another version known as Jiaomen Tan Tui as practiced by the Hui people. Jiao means Hui Sect This one is a 10-row set. Last Tongbei Tan Tui has their own version which is a combination of different sections of their techniques from Tongbei. It consists of 12 rows.

Source of Information:

1. Oral Transmission from Sifu Wong Jackman

2. Charts of Tan Tui from Sifu Wong Jackman

3. Chinese Martial Arts and the Hui, Kung Fu Magazine Form by Gene Ching 1990 to 2005.

4. Mkma.net (web site)

5. Moslem Kung fu: The Fist of the Bodyguards by Ted Mancuso 1999, Inside Kung fu Magazine

6. Northern Shaolin Twelve Row Tan Tui by Chao Lin Ho Ching Wu, Shanghai 1920

7. Tam Tui, Northern Shaolin Snapping Leg by Alexander I. Co, Inside Kung Fu December 1984-1989.

8. Tan Tui by Chang, Wu Lum #7 1983 (Chinese)Tan Ti the 17 Form Method by Robert Le, Ancient Sets of Kung Fu, Volume 1, #2, #3, #4, #5,

9. Ten Fundamental Chinwoo Routines, Tantui and Gongliquan by Lam Wing-Ki and Ying Fun-fong, IBSN 962-85291-5-3 2000.

10. Tom Toy: Springing Legs, Their History and Relation to Shaolin, by Shaolin Instiute.com, November, 2003.

Chinese Books

1. 10 Row Tan Tui by Wong,1983

2. 12 Rows Tan Tui Methods by Wong, Taiwan, 1966, Reprint

3. 12 Row Tan Tui by Wong, Uk, reprint

4. Northern Fist China Best, by Yang, HK, 1970

5. Northern Fist, by Chu, HK, 1969, reprint

6. South, North Fist Best Chinese Fist Arts by Li, HK, Reprint

[anarchobaptist]

yes there have been literally centuries of scriptural study and interpretation and analysis, but how many of them had the benefit of the cutting-edge exegetical techniques of weed gummies and mountain dew

[omshantiomyoga]

How a Yoga Teacher Training in India Can Transform Your Life

 Embarking on a Yoga Teacher Training (YTT) program in India is a transformative journey beyond mastering physical postures. It offers a profound exploration into the depths of yogic philosophy, personal growth, and spiritual awakening. This article delves into how undertaking Yoga Teacher Training in India can significantly transform your life.

Deepening Your Yoga Practice

Participating in Yoga Teacher Training in India allows you to move beyond basic yoga poses, delving into advanced asanas with a focus on proper alignment and technique. This comprehensive approach ensures a solid foundation for both personal practice and teaching.

Breathing techniques, or pranayama, are integral to yoga, enhancing the connection between body and mind. Incorporating pranayama into your routine can improve respiratory efficiency and mental clarity.

Regular meditation practice fosters mental clarity and emotional balance. Yoga Teacher Training programs often include guided meditation sessions, helping you develop a consistent practice that promotes inner peace and mindfulness.

Establishing a disciplined daily routine is essential for personal growth. Immersive Yoga Teacher Training programs in India emphasize the importance of consistency, encouraging habits that lead to a balanced and focused lifestyle.

Gaining Profound Knowledge of Yogic Philosophy

Studying ancient texts such as the Bhagavad Gita and the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali provides insight into the philosophical underpinnings of yoga. These scriptures offer guidance on living a life aligned with yogic principles.

Understanding the eight limbs of yoga elucidates the path to spiritual development and ethical living. This framework serves as a roadmap for personal conduct and self-discipline.

Exploring concepts of mindfulness and ethics within yogic philosophy encourages the application of these principles in daily life, fostering a harmonious and conscious existence.

Enhancing Physical and Mental Well-Being

Consistent yoga practice enhances flexibility, strength, and stamina. Engaging in diverse asanas challenges the body, leading to improved physical health and vitality.

Yoga has a profound impact on mental clarity and emotional stability. Regular practice can reduce stress, alleviate anxiety, and promote a positive outlook on life.

Incorporating meditation and breathwork into your routine fosters mental clarity and emotional balance. These practices equip you with tools to navigate life’s challenges with equanimity.

Cultivating Self-Discipline and Personal Growth

Immersing yourself in a structured Yoga Teacher Training program in India fosters self-discipline. The rigorous schedule encourages time management and commitment, essential traits for personal development.

Facing and overcoming personal challenges during training builds resilience. This process empowers you to tackle obstacles with confidence and perseverance.

Developing mindfulness and self-awareness through yoga and meditation practices leads to a deeper understanding of oneself, promoting continuous personal growth.

Connecting with Like-Minded People and a Global Yoga Community

Yoga Teacher Training programs attract individuals from diverse backgrounds, all united by a shared passion for yoga. This environment fosters meaningful connections and cultural exchange.

Building relationships with fellow practitioners creates a support network that extends beyond the training period, offering encouragement and shared experiences.

Engaging with a global yoga community provides opportunities for collaboration, learning, and growth, enriching your personal and professional life.

Experiencing a True Yogic Lifestyle

Living in an ashram setting immerses you in a lifestyle centered around simplicity and mindfulness. This environment supports the cultivation of inner peace and self-discipline.

Adopting a sattvic (pure) diet nourishes the body and mind, aligning with yogic principles that promote health and clarity.

Learning about Ayurveda and holistic wellness complements your yoga practice, offering a comprehensive approach to well-being.

Spiritual Awakening and Inner Transformation

India’s rich spiritual heritage provides a unique backdrop for deepening your spiritual journey. The country’s sacred sites and traditions inspire introspection and growth.

Engaging in practices such as meditation, chanting, and self-inquiry facilitates self-discovery and inner transformation, guiding you toward a more authentic self.

Guidance from experienced gurus and spiritual teachers offers invaluable insights, supporting your spiritual development and understanding.

Developing the Confidence to Teach and Share Yoga

Comprehensive Yoga Teacher Training programs equip you with effective teaching methodologies, preparing you to lead classes with confidence and competence.

Gaining practical experience through teaching practice sessions builds self-assurance, enabling you to guide others on their yoga journey.

Understanding the responsibilities of a yoga teacher fosters a sense of duty and commitment to upholding the integrity of the practice.

Career Opportunities and Life Beyond Training

Completing a Yoga Teacher Training program opens doors to teaching yoga globally, allowing you to share your passion and knowledge with diverse audiences.

Exploring avenues such as conducting workshops, retreats, or online classes enables you to reach a broader audience and expand your impact.

Integrating yogic principles into various aspects of life enriches personal and professional experiences, promoting a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.

Conclusion

Embarking on Yoga Teacher Training in India is a transformative experience that encompasses physical, mental, and spiritual growth. This journey not only deepens your practice but also fosters personal development, community connection, and professional opportunities. Embracing this path can lead to profound and lasting changes, guiding you toward a more enriched and purposeful life.

If you’re looking to learn yoga or embark on a transformative yoga teacher training journey, I highly recommend Om Shanti Om Yoga Ashram in Rishikesh, India. Known as one of the oldest and most authentic yoga ashrams in Rishikesh, this renowned institution upholds the classical traditions of yoga, providing a holistic and immersive experience for students worldwide.

At Om Shanti Om Yoga Ashram, you’ll find a range of comprehensive programs tailored to suit your needs, including:

100 Hours Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh, India 200 Hours of Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh, India 300 Hours of Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh, India 500 Hours of Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh, India Drop-in Yoga Classes

Each program is carefully designed to help you deepen your practice, gain profound insights into yoga philosophy, and master the art of teaching. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced practitioner, Om Shanti Om Yoga Ashram offers an ideal environment for personal growth, spiritual awakening, and professional development.

[mindfulldsliving]

Come Follow Me - January 13-19: Joseph Smith’s First Vision: A Pillar of Light That Illuminates the Path to Revelation

Sacred Grove, by Greg Olsen NOTE TO READERS: There are two downloadable PDFs at the end of this post. Be sure to download them for your personal use and study for this week’s Come Follow Me: January 13-19: “I Saw a Pillar of Light”. The first is an Inductive Study method with recommendations and the other is a Scripture Note Taking guide to enhance study and understanding. Joseph Smith’s First…

[ourgodmygod]

Loving God’s Word When we want to learn a new skill, we take care to learn everything we can about that subject. Artists try different supplies and techniques to enhance their art. Musicians practice their music measure by measure, note by note, in order to memorize and perfect the song they are learning. Architects and engineers memorize and practice advanced math in order to design and build safe structures. We give our time and minds to things so that we can use them well. King David wanted to know God. He knew in order to know God, he would need to know God’s Word, because he knew that Scripture would keep him from sinning against God. He even wrote:  “I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways.” Psalm 119:15 ESV This is a valuable lesson for us to learn as well: if we want to know God, to know Jesus, then we need to know God’s Word.  Just as we give our minds to the study of history or math, or we practice an instrument in order to play it well, we must also give our minds and time to knowing God’s Word. We should meditate on Scripture and fix our eyes on what Jesus has taught us. When we do this, we store up His wonderful Word in our hearts and it keeps us from sinning against Him.  We can know exactly what God wants and desires for us by reading Scripture.  His Word gives us boundaries, guidance, and direction. His Word shows His purposes and character. His Word reveals to us who He is, and we get to respond with joy and obedience. So today, what will you give your time to? In what ways will you store up God’s Word in your heart?

[lheiplantado]

Loving God’s Word

When we want to learn a new skill, we take care to learn everything we can about that subject.

Artists try different supplies and techniques to enhance their art. Musicians practice their music measure by measure, note by note, in order to memorize and perfect the song they are learning. Architects and engineers memorize and practice advanced math in order to design and build safe structures.

We give our time and minds to things so that we can use them well.

King David wanted to know God. He knew in order to know God, he would need to know God’s Word, because he knew that Scripture would keep him from sinning against God. He even wrote: 

“I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways.”

Psalm 119:15 ESV

This is a valuable lesson for us to learn as well: if we want to know God, to know Jesus, then we need to know God’s Word. 

Just as we give our minds to the study of history or math, or we practice an instrument in order to play it well, we must also give our minds and time to knowing God’s Word. We should meditate on Scripture and fix our eyes on what Jesus has taught us. When we do this, we store up His wonderful Word in our hearts and it keeps us from sinning against Him. 

We can know exactly what God wants and desires for us by reading Scripture. 

His Word gives us boundaries, guidance, and direction. His Word shows His purposes and character. His Word reveals to us who He is, and we get to respond with joy and obedience. So today, what will you give your time to? In what ways will you store up God’s Word in your heart?

[anaswaraseo]

Impact of Bharatanatyam on Indian Culture and Heritage

Bharatanatyam profoundly impacts Indian culture and heritage, embodying centuries of tradition, spirituality, and artistry. Originating from the temples of Tamil Nadu, this classical dance form is more than just performance—it is a cultural symbol that reflects India’s rich history and values.

Here’s a deeper look at its cultural influence:

1. Preservation of Ancient Heritage and Spirituality

Bharatanatyam is rooted in the Natya Shastra, an ancient Sanskrit text on performing arts, making it one of the oldest dance forms. The intricate hand gestures (mudras), expressions (abhinaya), and body movements serve as a living archive of India's spiritual and mythological stories, especially those associated with Hindu gods and goddesses like Shiva, Vishnu, and Parvati. Through dance, practitioners preserve these stories, embodying the essence of ancient scriptures and keeping them alive for future generations.

2. Social and Cultural Identity

Bharatanatyam is a pillar of South Indian identity and pride. Performances often celebrate Tamil culture, rituals, and festivals, emphasizing the dance’s regional importance. However, Bharatanatyam has also gained national and international recognition, helping to unify Indians around a shared cultural heritage. Drawing from Hindu mythology bridges diverse communities, highlighting common values and ideals rooted in Indian culture, such as respect, devotion, and discipline.

3. Promoting Indian Aesthetics and Arts

The elaborate costumes, intricate jewelry, and detailed makeup used in Bharatanatyam highlight India’s traditional aesthetics. The sari drape, temple jewelry, and specific makeup styles have not only influenced the aesthetics of other Indian art forms but have also inspired modern fashion. The art form has also impacted other cultural expressions, such as Indian cinema, where classical dance movements and themes often find representation in films, bringing classical aesthetics to a broader audience.

4. Inspiring New Generations and Creating Global Awareness

Bharatanatyam has transcended boundaries, influencing dancers and audiences globally. Dance schools worldwide now teach Bharatanatyam, attracting students from various cultural backgrounds. As a result, it fosters a greater appreciation for Indian culture, promoting cultural exchange and global understanding. Additionally, Bharatanatyam’s themes of devotion, nature, and spirituality resonate universally, inspiring dancers of all backgrounds to explore Indian heritage.

5. Women's Empowerment and Societal Change

Historically, it was performed by Devadasis (temple dancers), but Bharatanatyam was revitalized in the 20th century by women like Rukmini Devi Arundale, who brought the dance to the stage. This opened up new opportunities for women, not only as dancers but as cultural ambassadors. Today, Bharatanatyam encourages self-expression, self-discipline, and self-confidence in its practitioners, especially empowering women to reclaim and celebrate their heritage.

6. Influence on Other Dance and Art Forms

Bharatanatyam has influenced various classical and contemporary dance forms in India. Many Indian classical dancers incorporate Bharatanatyam's techniques and themes, while contemporary choreographers often merge them with other styles, creating fusion performances. Bharatanatyam’s principles, like geometric postures and expressions, are often studied and adapted by artists and even architects, showcasing its reach beyond dance alone.

7. Maintaining Moral and Ethical Values

Bharatanatyam teaches and reflects values of dedication, respect for tradition, and humility. Students undergo rigorous training that instills discipline, respect for elders, and a deep sense of reverence for the art form. By highlighting stories of good versus evil, virtues, and ethical dilemmas through mythology, Bharatanatyam subtly reinforces moral values and ethical teachings, making it a medium for cultural education.

Conclusion

In sum, Bharatanatyam acts as a guardian of Indian heritage, preserving ancient traditions while inspiring contemporary cultural expressions. Through its fusion of art, spirituality, and tradition, it continues to enrich Indian culture, bridging past and present, local and global, and individual and collective identity.

[ryin-silverfish]

A FSYY question. Most of the Twelve Immortals of Kunlun are repackaged versions of preexisting deities. Guangchengzi and Chijingzi are primordial gods who acted as instructors for the prehistoric god-kings Huangdi and Zhuanxu. Wenzhu Guangfa Tianzun, Puxian Zhenren, and Cihang Zhenren are meant to be the past lives of Manjushri, Samantabhadra, and Avalokitesvara/Guanyin/Miaoshan respectively. Juliu Sun is meant to become the Buddha of Antiquity Kakusandha. Taiyi Zhenren is based on the Taoist god of salvation, Taiyi Jiuku Tianzun. Lingbao Dafashi and Qingxu-Daode Tianzun are split off from Yuanshi Tianzun's two "brothers" among the Three Pure Ones (Daode for Laozi, Lingbao for Lingbao Tianzun or Tongtian Jiaozhu). Huanglong Zhenren is either based on stories of dragons helping Yu the Great manage the flood or the figure of the Yellow Dragon that manages the asterisms in the center of the sky. Where, then, did Yuding Zhenren and Daohang Tianzun come from? They seem to be OCs created just for the book.

Also, in FSYY, Kakusandha's name is implied to be in the same style as his disciple's name, with a title in front and a surname as the final word. So Tuxing Sun = Earthwalker Sun, with his main technique being tunneling through the earth, and Juliu Sun = Imprisoner Sun, with his main weapon being his god-binding rope. Would this imply a deeper relationship for them than just master/disciple?

I actually remembered reading something about Sage Huanglong's origin in 西游新说十三讲: namely, he might be inspired by the story of "Lv Dongbin sent his flying sword after Yellow Dragon" (吕洞宾飞剑斩黄龙).

The version of the story in Xingshi Hengyan basically went like this (though the story of these two's conflict had already been circulating long before):

Lv Dongbin left the mountain he was studying on after getting a flying sword from his master, picked a (verbal) fight with the local renowned monk Yellow Dragon, lost badly, and decided to be a sore loser by trying to assassinate the guy with his flying sword.

Which he also failed at——he lost his sword to the guy and had to return to his master in shame.

It's very much a story Buddhists used to flex on Daoists, and in return, Daoists made their own versions where Lv Dongbin won to flex back at Buddhists.

The book made the argument that FSYY might also be following that story tradition, and firmly took Lv Dongbin's side, which kinda explained Huanglong's memetic loser status in the novel (seriously, I don't think this guy has ever won a fight).

You are right that Yuding and Daoheng are more or less OCs, to a greater extent than the others, but the name "Yuding" actually appeared in two Daoist texts.

庚道集, a book on external alchemy, had a chapter titled "The Ninefold Great Elixir of Sage Yuding of Western Shu", while the internal alchemy text 性命圭旨 featured a mnemonic chant attributed to him, alongside other historical Daoists like Zhang Boduan and Wei Boyang.

This suggested he might also be a venerable Daoist sage, active in the Sichuan area at some point IRL history.

As for Daoheng Tianzun: he also got two "likely" namedrops inside two Daoist texts. 太上灵宝朝天谢罪大忏 mentioned a 道行真空天尊, while 太上洞玄灵宝三十二天尊应号经 mentioned a 道行洞空天尊.

These are also works that fall squarely into the "gigantic pantheon list full of gods that almost never appeared outside of said scripture, or enjoy actual worship" category, so yeah.

As for Juliu Sun: the name is just the Chinese transliteration for Krakucchanda/Kakusandha, which could be written as 惧留孙/拘留孙/俱留孙. Though it wasn't impossible for Tuxing Sun's name to be based after his master for matching purposes, I don't think there is any deeper meaning to it.

[eyeoftheheart]

“Vedanta doesn’t say there is no God or that there is one God or many gods; it proves that there is only God!

Devotion is intense love of the self with attachment. It is either dual or non-dual, object centered or objectless. Non-dual, objectless love is the nature of the self. If I want to be emotionally happy, I should love the self. But self love is abstract, because I cannot see the self. If, however, I understand that everything I perceive is awareness in a gross or subtle form, then reality abounds with altars to which I can offer devotion.

One’s relationship with God/Self is the primary relationship of all human beings and needs to be squared away before you can really grow to your full potential.

Prayer, congregational worship, study of scripture and the lives of great saints are all equally effective practices. Another good technique is to strip every object of its secular projection and instill it with a divine aura. See your body as God’s temple, your home as the house of God, your family as God’s family. Consider every spoken word the name of God and every activity, spiritual or otherwise, service to God. Bending, lying or kneeling should be seen as prostration to God and all lights as symbols of self. One should see sleep as meditation and eating as God eating God. In this manner, every object and activity gradually loses its worldly associations and becomes a living symbol of the divine.

When you see a mountain, see it as a symbol of your self. Mountains are good self symbols, because they are relatively eternal. They rise above everything and provide an unsurpassed view. The self is the highest part of our being, jutting above the plains and valleys of our body-mind territory affording us unlimited vision. They are unmoving, like the self. It cannot move because it is non-dual. They are silent like the self, “the unstruck sound.” When you see a river, see it as your self. Like the self, rivers give life, nourishing everything with which they come in contact. See the sky as the limitless self.”

~ James Swartz