#damaru

[vajracrafts2021]

Tibetan Buddhist Ritual Chod Drum/Damaru with Yellow Brocade Cover

[greenjaydeep]

#ajblock #durgapooja #damaru #ajblockpujo #pandals #pandalhopping #saltlakecity #pujovibes #puja2022 #durgapujo2022 #durgapuja2022 #durgathakur #motog825gshot #kalkutta #boats #cityofjoy #kolkatabuzz #kolkatadurgapuja #kolkata_shoutout #kolkata_igers #kolkata_sutra (at AJ Block Salt Lake) https://www.instagram.com/p/CjVvCDkvgXq/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[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 ..

[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💙💙]

[talonabraxas]

Nataraja is the extraordinary Hindu god known as the Cosmic Dancer or Lord of the Dance. Nataraja is one of the presiding deities for the crown chakra. He is a form of Shiva, one of the principal deities of Hinduism. Shiva is part of the Hindu trinity composed of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva.

Shiva is the destroyer of evil, alternately depicted both as benevolent and fearsome. Shiva is often shown with a serpent around his neck, a crescent moon as an adornment, the river Ganges flowing from his hair or flowing nearby, the trishula as his weapon, and a damaru (drum) nearby.

Nataraja is a joyful being spinning and dancing through creation. Nataraja represents the ecstatic state of enlightenment. This is a traditional chant to Nataraja with the following lyrics and meaning:

Nataraja, Nataraja, Nartana Sundara Nataraja (2x) Sivaraja, Sivaraja, Sivakami Preya Sivaraja (2x) Chidambaresa Nataraja, Parthi Puresa Sivaraja

The meaning of this chant is "Salutations to the beautiful dancing Nataraja, the Lord Shiva, whose consort is Shivakami. Honor to Shiva who is the master of the sky of consciousness. Nataraja is the lord of the city of Parthi."

Nataraja by Talon Abraxas

[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

[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:

[blackvahana]

The territory making is drawn out slow and steady, a roast in a hot pot cooked low to become the most delicious meal. I have time, plenty of it, and high standards.

The lunar part of the orrery takes shape. Again, the territory is still soaked in the amniotic Mental, it's forming. But there's an island here that is the waxing crescent moon in this lunar orrery and it has a three tier waterfall of night sky, space, star water in the making, slowly weaving into something that gives visions of recent future and past fates. Lev sits, listens to it, able to hear it even though its half made because he knows how to work with its to-be real nature.

He sits in silence. I haven't seen this sort of silence from him - well, I have, just not this life. He never pauses with surprise, he may stop because he needs to process things but never because he has to stop to process it, not in this way. Gates open in his head, too.

He says I feel different. He looks at me with a different expression.

We came here with the context that the territory had started introducing water to itself, as in I have been taking things slow: Day, Night, Growth, Water. Oh-

I've never been knelt to, this life, by a high god. Never so earnestly at least and so... He handed me something ceremoniously on his knees, a specific trident he pulled from somewhere else, and of course I reshaped it - as he expected and invited me to do - to fit my own aesthetics; of course it came out then as the trishula adorned with the sacred damaru and was sharpened like a chef's wet dream knife collection, something he chuckled at. Of course I'd immediately make it sharp, dangerous. No point having a ceremonial tool that isn't extracting all use out of it. I am potency.

Still, though. He talks about creating a temple somewhere on these islands, probably underneath the main one, but there is no greater temple, no greater place to feel revered in, than the silence he is still taking after what he saw.

The Gate has opened for us.

[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

[kstellanova]

Damarus enjoying a nice fall day.

[talonabraxas]

Nataraja ॐ

The symbolism of Nataraja, the Cosmic Dancer

The Cosmic Dancer The cosmic dance is the dance of life itself, including creation, preservation, destruction of the entire universe and spiritual grace to understand and go beyond to liberation.

In Hinduism, the objective of life is not to go to heaven but to attain liberation, which means to understand the true nature of ourselves beyond the ego-person that we are familiar with.

I have always wondered why dance was chosen as the art to represent this, not music, painting, poetry, sculpture or any other art. In my view, it may be because dance is the only art that cannot stand by itself without the artist.

One can observe and enjoy paintings, sculptures, poetry and even listen to music, but there is no dance without the dancer being present and visible in the moment. It is a powerful way of showing God is immanent in all of creation. The creator and creation are inseparable.

Ring of Fire

Shiva’s dance is set within a ring of cosmic fire, prabha mandala, which represents time (which destroys everything) and which is shown as a circle to symbolize the Hindu belief that time is cyclical and without end.

Within the cosmos represented by the ring of fire, the form of Nataraja is seen as comprised of five concepts:

Srishti, creation, evolution Sthiti, preservation, support Samhara, destruction, evolution Tirobhava, illusion Anugraha, release, emancipation, grace

Srishti His upper right hand holds a small hourglass shaped drum (damaru) that makes the primal sounds of creation Shrishti.

There is this interesting idea in Hinduism that creation originates as sound, as vibration. Fritjof Capra found echoes of quantum theory in this, where all matter is vibrating at the atomic level.

Here are a couple of extracts from Fritjof Capra’s The Tao of Physics:

“The Dance of Shiva symbolizes the basis of all existence. At the same time, Shiva reminds us that the manifold forms in the world are not fundamental, but illusory and ever-changing. Modern physics has shown that the rhythm of creation and destruction is not only manifest in the turn of the seasons and in the birth and death of all living creatures, but is also the very essence of inorganic matter.

“According to quantum field theory, the dance of creation and destruction is the basis of the very existence of matter. Modern physics has thus revealed that every subatomic particle not only performs an energy dance, but also is an energy dance; a pulsating process of creation and destruction. For the modern physicists then, Shiva’s dance is the dance of subatomic matter, the basis of all existence and of all natural phenomena.”

In recognition of this profound and seamless bridging of mythology, religion, science and the ever-changing universe, a large bronze Nataraja stands at CERN, Switzerland, home to the Large Hadron Collider and the main home of modern research into particle physics.

Sthiti His lower right hand makes the abhaya mudra. It is the gesture of fearlessness or protection for his devotees. It also indicates preservation/support for the cosmos

Samhara His upper left hand holds a blazing flame or agni, symbolizing his power of destruction.

The way both creation and destruction are held in the dance pose signifies the balance between the two.

There is another interesting aspect of balance as well, that’s not often discussed.

Nataraja has different earrings in each ear. On the right ear is an earring in the shape of a crocodile, usually worn by men. His left ear has a traditional circular earring worn by women. The divine can be seen as male, female, both, and neither, another facet of Hinduism.

Tirobhava His right foot is on a dwarf, personifying human ego, ignorance and spiritual illusion which he keeps under control. This is the act of tirobhava or veiling — that is, reality is veiled from our understanding.

The serpent around his neck represents both our evil tendencies but also the coiled kundalini shakti within us (those interested in yoga would likely have come across the term kundalini).

Anugraha Anugraha, grace and emancipation, is indicated by the combination of the lower left hand, which points toward his upraised foot, showing the way to moksha in surrendering to the lord.

The uplifted left leg is revealing grace, which releases the mature soul from bondage. Hindus touching the feet of their elders in respect is an echo of God’s feet being considered holy.

[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