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queerism1969 · 2 years

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Do you think being trans is a trend?

Transgender people are known to have existed since ancient times. A wide range of societies had traditional third gender roles, or otherwise accepted trans people in some form. Historical understandings are inherently filtered through modern principles and were largely viewed through a medical lens until the late 1900s.

Trans history has also been filtered through gay history, with some historians erasing the trans identities of historical figures.

Ancient Egypt had third gender categories, including eunuchs. In the Tale of Two Brothers (from 3200 years ago), Bata removes his penis and tells his wife "I am a woman just like you"; one modern scholar called him temporarily (before his body is restored) "transgendered".

Prior to western contact, some Native American tribes had third-gender roles,[76] like the Diné (Navajo) nádleehi and the Zuni lhamana. European anthropologists usually referred to these people as berdaches, which Indigenous people have always considered an offensive slur. In 1990, some Indigenous North Americans, largely in academia, adopted the pan-Indian neologism two-spirit, as an attempt to organize inter-tribally.

In 1776, the Public Universal Friend reported being genderless, dressed androgynously, and asked followers gained while preaching throughout New England over the next four decades not to use their birth name or gendered pronouns

Prior to the 16th-century arrival of Spanish conquistadors, the Inca Empire and their Moche predecessors revered third-gender persons and organized their society around an Andean cosmovision that made room for masculine and feminine ambiguity based on "complementary dualism." Third-gender shamans as ritual practitioners were subject to violence as the Spanish suppressed pre-colonial worldviews.

In ancient Assyria, transgender cult prostitutes took part in public processions, singing, dancing, wearing costumes and sometimes women's clothes, carrying feminine symbols, and even at times performing the act of giving birth.

Eunuchs (who existed in China since 4000 years ago, were imperial servants by 3000 years ago, and were common as civil servants by the time of the Qin dynasty until a century ago) have sometimes been viewed as a third sex, or a transgender practice and Chinese histories have often expressed the relationship of a ruler to his officials in the terms of a male relationship to females.

Indian texts from as early as 3000 years ago document a third gender, which has been connected to the hijras who have formed a category of third-gender or trans-feminine people on the Indian subcontinent since ancient times.

The Buddhist Tipitaka, composed about 2100 years ago, documents four gender categories: female, male, pandaka, and ubhatobyanjanaka.

Drawings and figures from around 9000 to 3700 years ago, depicting androgynous and genderless humans in domestic, religious, and funerary settings, occur around the Mediterranean

Near what is today Prague, a burial from 4900 to 4500 years ago was found of a biologically male skeleton in a woman's outfit with feminine grave goods, which some archaeologists consider an early transgender burial.

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mahayanapilgrim · 7 months

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The Controversy of Symbolism in Tibetan Buddhism: Misunderstandings and True Interpretations

The profound symbolism and imagery in Tibetan Buddhism have often been a source of misunderstanding and controversy, particularly in the context of the union of wisdom and bliss, symbolized by Father (compassion) and Mother (wisdom) in intimate union. This controversy has historical roots, with early Western explorers, including British ones, misinterpreting these symbols and, in some cases, branding Tibetans as primitive or even demon-worshipers. However, a more nuanced understanding of these symbols and their true meaning reveals a deeper and more profound aspect of Tibetan Buddhism.

Historical Misunderstandings:

As little as a few decades ago, Western explorers and visitors to Tibetan Buddhist temples were shocked by the imagery and symbolism they encountered. The intimate union of Father (compassion) and Mother (wisdom) was often misinterpreted as sexual or lustful, leading to hasty judgments about Tibetan culture and spirituality. These misinterpretations resulted from a lack of cultural context and a superficial understanding of Tibetan Buddhism.

Western Perceptions:

Early Western perceptions of Tibetan Buddhism were influenced by these misinterpretations. Tibetans were often seen as primitive or shamanistic, which created a skewed image of their spirituality. It wasn't until the 1970s that a growing group of Western students and practitioners began to delve deeper into Tibetan Buddhism, seeking a more authentic understanding of its teachings and symbolism.

Attachment to Labels and Symbolism:

The controversy surrounding the symbolism in Tibetan Buddhism underscores the importance of understanding the concept of attachment to labels. The heart of Buddha's teachings on the Eightfold Path revolves around transcending attachments and delusions. Tibetan Buddhist teachers recognized the limitations of words in conveying profound truths and instead used visual symbols to represent these concepts.

True Interpretations:

The union of Father (compassion) and Mother (wisdom) in Tibetan Buddhism represents a deeply spiritual and symbolic concept. It symbolizes the harmonious integration of compassion and wisdom, with the male (compassion) and female (wisdom) aspects balancing and complementing each other. This union is not about physical intimacy but rather a representation of the union of essential qualities for spiritual enlightenment.

Furthermore, the symbolism of union in Tibetan Buddhism extends to skilful means (male) and insight (female) as well as relative truth (male) and ultimate truth (female). These symbols illustrate the interplay and integration of complementary qualities and aspects on the path to enlightenment.

In conclusion, the controversy surrounding the symbolism in Tibetan Buddhism highlights the challenges of cross-cultural interpretation and the importance of looking beyond surface appearances. The true view of these symbols emphasizes their spiritual and philosophical significance, rather than superficial, misinformed judgments. The union of Father and Mother in Tibetan Buddhism is a symbol of the profound balance between compassion and wisdom, and it serves as a reminder that understanding cultural and spiritual symbols requires a deep and open-minded approach.

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primordialsoundmeditation · 8 months

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DAILY ANGEL MESSAGE!

Take a deep breath, let it out slowly, say this prayer and then keep reading: “Thank you angels for revealing to me what I need to know!”

MESSAGE

The blessings of Tara are surrounding you now and you are being guided to know that healing isn’t linear but more like a spiral. When you set the intention to heal, the intention itself initiates a pathway that is similar to a spiral. At times you will feel like you are overflowing with vitality and at others you will feel drained. There may even be moments when you feel you are revisiting something you thought you had overcome, but this revisiting is actually an opportunity to see how far you have come on the road to recovery and wholeness. Right now, the spiritual energies that surround you are creating space, pathways, and doorways for you to move closer to the truth that you are whole, healed, and complete. Don’t let fears or limitations get between you and the miracles that you have experienced and the miracles that are yet to happen. This is a journey to fearlessness and liberation, and you are closer to freedom than ever. Take the next step.

ABOUT

The story goes that Tara, whose name means “star,” is an aspect of Avalokiteshvara, the deity of compassion, who, looking at the Earth, cried tears over all those experiencing challenges and pain. His tears of compassion became a great river, from which rose a lotus, and from that lotus, Tara was born. She has many forms, in different colors, and Green Tara brings a light of protection and safety with her. Green Tara is one of the most loved and respected female deities in many Buddhist traditions and is well regarded by many spiritual practitioners across the world. Born of pure compassion, she is there to assist all those moving from suffering to wholeness.

DECK: Divine Masters Oracle

ARTIST: Jennifer Hawkyard

Pre-orders now available for my Divine Masters Oracle. Release date November 7th, 2023.

Kyle Gray

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abhayam-dada · 3 months

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About Consort in Karma Mudra

Aside from the sexual aspect of Buddhist ethics and discipline though, a Buddhist teacher (I refer to teachers here because they are supposed to have more developed inner qualities than that of a student), and especially a lama who gives Vajrayana empowerments and teachings, is also supposed to maintain three sets of other Buddhist vows: the Individual Liberation Vows (or Pratimoksha vows), the Bodhisattva Vows and the Vajrayana Vows (or root downfalls). None of these are that easy to maintain and if they are breached, must be purified correctly and genuinely. Turning to the subject of women though, how, if at all, do these three types of vows have a particular reference, or application, to women?...

"The secondary Vajrayana root vows mention the downfalls about women in the context of consort (or Karmamudra ) practice. In the last few decades, there has been more written recently in the English language (by women) about women and consort practice, such as Passionate Enlightenment by Miranda Shaw, "Travellers in Space" by June Campbell, the "Love and Liberation" Autobiographical Writings of Sera Khandro by Sarah H. Jacoby and a recent academic article by Holly Gayley, Revisiting the Secret Consort ( gsang yum ) in Tibetan Buddhism . Shaw, in particular, effectively claims that a genuine consort lama relation would be mutually fulfilling and equal. However, judging by recent sex scandals of male Buddhist lamas ‘abusing’ and ‘using’ female students (including nuns) for casual sexual encounters and pleasure, it is clear that the ‘consort’ relation (and even the term itself) is still too often misunderstood and misused. Even though I have not read his new book about the tantric sexual union practice, Karmamudra : "The Yoga of Bliss: Sexuality in Tibetan Buddhism and Medicine", the author Dr Nida Chenagtsang states that the reason he wrote it was to educate and inform people about what an actual Karmamudra practice is and is not, in order to protect people from such worldly and abusive relations. As it stated in the article ‘ Monastic Abuse: The Tragic Case of Kalu Rinpoche’, consort practise is a very particular kind of physical (and/or energetic union) that is undertaken for the sake of enlightenment and not for sexual pleasure only. It is also an activity that involves a high level of yogic competency and expertise on the part of the lama, and in addition, the female consort is supposed to have certain qualities, such as vows, an understanding of emptiness and empowerments.

Qualifications and consent

The secondary root Vajrayana downfalls state that the vajrayana master or teacher, should not pick UNQUALIFIED consorts and also must not FORCE a consort. These terms are not so clear either, but generally speaking the texts and tantras refer to the woman (or consort) having a certain minimum level of attributes, for example, someone that has no vows, no stable practice, or has wrong views or not much understanding of emptiness etc would not be suitable. But what is meant by ‘force’ here? Certainly, physical rape and coercion or blackmail would be examples of forcing someone. But what about when a lama uses visualisations and mantras, and their own tantric yogic tsa-lung practice to literally overpower and intoxicate a woman to feel very sexual and thus do sexual things towards and with that lama they might not normally do? This kind of experience happens more often than people might know or be aware of. For example, some deity practices like Kurukulle, if done by a practitioner with certain skills, would allow them to gain access to a woman in this way, like putting a drug in her drink, so that they lose all ability to think clearly and become totally overwhelmed with sexual desire and arousal. Yet, as one article says about Kurukulle: ”Despite depictions of her magnetizing powers as “magical,” they are not for the corrupted purpose of attracting a mate, or money, or luxuries. Like other emanations of Tara, she is about the “activities” of compassion, in this case attracting and enchanting.” Source : Text of Tsering Wangmo.

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blrowanducks-blog · 10 months

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Guhyasamāja Tantra (Part LVI)

Guhyasamja is one of Vajrayana Buddhism’s most fascinating, difficult, and essential personalities. It combines various important tathagata Buddhas, into one image. He is most commonly called Akshobhayavajara which is the form of Akshobhaya buddha.

Guhyasamāja holds a significant position in Tibetan Buddhism as one of the most important deities within the Vajrayana tradition. The word "Guhyasamāja" can be translated as "secret assembly" or "mystic unity." This complex and profound deity embodies the union of wisdom and compassion, embodying the ultimate goal of spiritual awakening.

Guhyasamāja has its roots in ancient Indian Buddhist Tantra, particularly within the broader framework of the Mahayana and Vajrayana traditions. It is believed to have been transmitted to Tibet by the great Indian master Padmasambhava in the 8th century CE. The deity is often depicted in a yab-yum (Tibetan for "father-mother") posture, symbolizing the union of wisdom (represented by the male deity) and compassion (represented by the female deity). Guhyasamāja is portrayed as a transcendent being with multiple heads and arms, adorned with various ornaments, and seated on a lotus throne.

The iconography of Guhyasamāja carries profound symbolism that reflects the core principles of Tibetan Buddhism. The multiple heads and arms represent the deity's enlightened qualities and ability to manifest in various forms to assist sentient beings. The yab-yum posture signifies the non-dualistic nature of reality, where wisdom and compassion are inseparable. Guhyasamāja embodies the union of bliss and emptiness, representing the ultimate state of enlightenment, often referred to as the union of method and wisdom.

The practice of Guhyasamāja is highly esoteric and advanced, primarily undertaken by experienced practitioners under the guidance of qualified teachers. The primary aim of these practices is to transform ordinary experiences into the path of awakening. The empowerment or initiation into the Guhyasamāja practice is a crucial step for practitioners, allowing them to establish a direct connection with the deity's enlightened qualities. Empowerments involve rituals, visualization, mantra recitation, and the cultivation of meditative absorption.

Meditation is an essential component of Guhyasamāja practice. Tibetan Buddhist practitioners engage in various meditation techniques associated with this deity to purify their minds and cultivate wisdom and compassion. One such method is deity yoga, where practitioners visualize themselves as Guhyasamāja, embodying the enlightened qualities of the deity. Through this practice, one aims to dissolve the dualistic perception of self and other, cultivating a deep sense of interconnectedness and compassion.

Tantric rituals play a significant role in Guhyasamāja practice. These rituals involve elaborate ceremonies, including chanting of mantras, visualization, mudras (hand gestures), and the offering of various substances such as flowers, incense, and symbolic offerings. These rituals are performed to invoke the presence of Guhyasamāja and to purify and transform mundane experiences into the path of enlightenment.

Guhyasamāja holds a central position in the Vajrayana tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. The practice of Guhyasamāja is considered an advanced practice.

Guhyasamja is the foremost meditational deity of the Method-father class of Anuttarayoga tantra. Guhyasamaja has two main traditions, the Arya (Nagarjuna) Lineage, and the Jnana (Jnanapada) Lineage.

In general there are three principal iconographic forms of Guhyasamaja within this tradition.

Akshobhyavajra (blue),

Manjuvajra (orange), and

Avalokita (red).

All three of these forms have three faces, six arms, two legs, and embrace a consort. Guhyasamaja can appear as either peaceful or slightly peaceful and slightly wrathful.

Guhyasamāja is blue-black in color, a form of Akshobhya, one of the five transcendent lords. Akshobhyavajra holds a vajra and bell in his first two hands, and other hands hold the symbols of the four other transcendent lords, wheel of Vairocana, and lotus of Amitabha in his right. and the gem of Ratnasambhava and sword of Amoghasiddhi in his left.

The sadana continues:

BLESSING THE BODY, SPEECH, AND MIND JOINTLY

"I become the great Vajradhara in whom all the tathāgatas' three vajras of body, speech, and mind combined inseparably.

Om sarvatathāgatakāyavākcittav ajrasvabhāvātmako 'ham".

The sadhana recitation for this practice is limited to this brief statement. Lineage lamas have described the visualization that relates to it in the following manner. Among the thirty-two deities installed in your body, twenty-three are male deities, namely, the five lineage tathāgatas, the eight bodhisattvas, and the ten wrathful deities. Similarly, nine are female deities-that is, the four divine consorts and the five sense goddesses. Each of the twenty-three male deities emanates countless duplicates of himself who invite countless forms of one of the nine goddesses. Similarly, the four consorts and the five sense goddesses emanate countless duplicates of themselves who invite countless forms of each of the twenty-three male deities, with each goddess inviting the male deities who correspond to their respective lineage.

Thus, while appearing in Vajrasattva's emanation-body form, visualize that each of the body mandala's thirty-two male and female deities emanates countless duplicates of himself or herself, that fill the entirety of space. Each of these multitudes of emanations then invites countless forms of their counterpart female or male deity. After embracing one another, these countless pairs of deities dissolve into one another until they become single pairs of each of the thirty-two deities who position themselves in the space above the circular beam inside the mandala palace, then visualize that you emanate a duplicate of yourself who comes before this assembly of deity pairs and makes a supplication to them. Following this supplication, the deity pairs enter into sexual union

and dissolve into thirty-two portions of a

luminous substance whose essence is bliss-voidness wisdom. These substances dissolve into the corresponding thirty-two body-mandala deities, filling their bodies. The surplus of these substances spill out from the bodies of the body-mandala deities and fill your main body that is appearing in Vajrasattva's form. As this occurs, reflect that you attain the status of the great Vajradhara in whom all the tathāgatas' three vajras of body, speech, and mind are combined inseparably. Then recite the mantra for generating the divine pride in which you reflect, "I am the one whose nature is composed of the body, speech, and mind vajras of all the tathāgatas."

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practicalmagicintuitions · 1 year

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Please ignore this ask if you wish so! Let me just cut to the chase: Is abortion "Karmically messy"/evil/bad from a spiritual perspective? I ask this because I have seen a growing number of feminine spirituality coaches and non-christian anti-feminist trads ( i get there are many shortcomings of feminism as we are seeing now today, however feminist thinking and this movement is still needed I would say given how rights can be stripped away from women even in the most progressive countries, I'm personally from a country where women are still controlled and hurt where abuse is the norm and men are favored in every aspect due to the social order and religion. Them saying feminism has made it worse for them and it sucks for them that women can't handle stress, shouldnt have right to vote or be in authority positions because men lead, teens are women and no harm in early pregnancies and partnerships with men decades older, women should be obedient submissive housewives because having a job and *competing with men* is masculinizing 'future is female' feminist propaganda and disrespectful men because the feminine does not rise makes no sense because this movement is the reason they have more freedom than women have ever had before at such a large scale, when men are put at the forefront women are lagging its fine but if men are behind in the very system that they created and remains largely unchanged, suddenly the system needs to be changed for men and men's prosperity at the cost of women through equal distribution of women m, making women property so men have incentive to give a damn about women basically go back to ancient greece/rome/victorian ages where men were men and dominated women and their existences lay at mercy to men, its only find if men are in power and gets their so called needs met.) say this, that its bad for women and all of those things I mentioned above, most mention how they found this out when they saw women in Ayahuasca ceremonies where the souls of the babies were tormenting them, that its murder.

I know its a very heavy thing and possibly very uncomfortable to be asked this. I am truly sorry for any discomfort I may be causing. The reason I ask in because you are a spiritual practitioner for a considerable and are intuitive as well. Again I'm sorry and also more sorry for possibly butchering what you do (idk much about spirituality and what to call people who are intuitive tarot readers and practice divination/are spiritual). Thank you.

I was really thinking about this answer and probably every internal dialogue I had was better than I can put into writing but I try my best.

It’s important to disclose that everything I will say is an opinion of mine, something that is align with my belief system. And this will be a long answer with a lot of sideways, but bear with me. You do not cause me any discomfort with this ask, in fact, I am really moved and grateful that you are interested in my opinion and think my opinion is matter.

First of all, I have to say I am sorry that you are in the social position you described. And even though I live in a country where according to the law we are equal I know many situations where this is just not true. However, I have to disagree on the feminism part because I am a firm believer that the radicalisation of feminism in fact made and still making our society less safe and liveable. Not just for men, but for women too. And I am saying this as someone who was raised by a feminist mother who is very disappointed lately in the “movement”. But this wasn’t the core of your ask, so let’s save this topic for another time.

Karma is a funny word here because if you are a full Buddhist (where the concept of karma comes from) the answer is yes, abortion is evil. But I am not part of any church or religion, I am a solitary practitioner and the very reason for this is because I had attended for many many horrible years to a religious school and… thanks, I don’t want to have anything with organised, institutionalized religions anymore. I am trying to read as many things on spirituality as I can and listen to my intuition that what I am reading is good, usable for me or not. For example, I read a book full of very practical exercises and I found it amazing, but somehow the writer of the book gives me the creeps. I cannot look at him or listen to him. However, I think the core of his “ teachings”, the book itself is very good and usable. If you are do it alone and don’t let the herd mentality suck you in. This is the same with religions too. The teaching most of the time are fundamentally good but always the individuals, the “teachers, the mentors” are the one who twists it.

I believe women should have control over their bodies and the right to say no to sex or having/keeping a child. But with rights comes responsibilities too. I don’t think abortion is evil if it’s meant to save the mother’s life or try to help a r*pe victim to move on and not force her to raise that child. Or not force a woman, (who knows she won’t be a good mom) to be an emotionally distant mother and raise a mentally fragile kid who feels they are not wanted or loved. Or if someone has no help and money and doesn’t have any options. (and please don’t say she should give it to adoption then. This isn’t possible in every country and she still needs an insane amount of money for the next 9 months. So adoption is not always an option) So in those cases, I don’t think karma will hit those mothers or doctors. I am the generation who watched ER religiously (hah, interesting choice of word) when it was on TV originally. And I remember a scene where a mother requested an ultrasound and when it turned out the baby will be a girl she decided to abort it. And this wasn’t her first time, she aborted all of the baby girls. This stuck me with to this very day. So if someone uses abortion instead of birth control or picking the baby’s gender, I think yes, that is bad and probably she had to pay later in her life or the next one.

But I also think we are connected and belong together with our children whether they are born in this life or not. No matter whether we decided to have them, abort them, or not have them at all. We still belong to each other and we will meet, if not this life, the next one. And I have a very strong reason to think this but I cannot tell you more about it. (it’s nothing to do with abortion though).

I also don’t think a few days old lumps of a cell’s existence are worth more or even equal to a woman’s life. How is it pro-life when doctors let mothers die because of a fetus or even a baby who probably wouldn’t survive anyway? So instead of one “dead” we have two. And a full family ruined. Yay! How those people, lawmakers, and activists could say a mother who possibly has a loving family, friends, and other kids and who possibly affect others' life positively must die? In name of what? In name of celebrating life? It’s basically human sacrifice. And if there is any evil in this story is not the one who wants to end a pregnancy.

Every people have their own morality and belief system. And if yours is that you could never have an abortion that is on you and no one have the right to tell you otherwise. But you don’t have the right to force women to not have one.

I also want to say that I feel myself a politically homeless person because everything I saw around me is this radical “ you have to pick a lane and stick to it” mentality. And I refuse to do that. I like to think of myself as someone who is in the middle and uses their right mind to make decisions. So probably that’s why I am a solitary practitioner.

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themaskfromsupermario2 · 2 years

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I learned about the deity Palden Lhamo for the first time today and I’m amazed.

“Palden Lhamo means "Glorious Goddess" and can feature a wide range of wrathful female protectors and dakinis. Usually, Palden Lhamo refers to the Gelugpa version of her as a wrathful emanation of Saraswati, otherwise known as Magzor Gyalmo and Remati.

Magzor Gyalmo was said to be named Remati during the time she was married to the evil king of Lanka, both of them rakshasas according to one version. Remati vowed that if she failed to convert the king to Buddhism and dispel his wickedness, she would end his dynasty. She tried many times to convert him to avoiding the killing of dharma practitioners, but failed along with their son being raised to kill Buddhists. With no choice, she slaughtered her son while her husband was out hunting. She ate her son's flesh, drank his blood with his skull as a kapala or cup, and flayed his skin to make a saddle. Thus, she escaped out towards the north. Just as she left on a mule, the king returned and found out about his son's murder. Enraged, he shot the rump of the mule that Remati was riding. In response, Remati healed the wound and transformed it into an eye by stating, "May the wound of my mount become an eye large enough to watch over the twenty-four regions, and may I myself be the one to extirpate the lineage of the malignant kings of Lanka!" There, she traveled onwards through India to Tibet to China to Mongolia and was said to have finally settled down on the mountain, Oikhan in eastern Siberia.

When she died, she was reborn in hell and fought her way out of the hell, stealing a bag of diseases and a sword. When she escaped to the charnel grounds, she found no peace and prayed to the Buddha for a reason to live. The Buddha Vajradhara (tantric Shakyamuni) appeared before her and requested her to protect the dharma. Astonished, Remati agreed and thus arose as the dharmapala she is, only using her weapons against enemies of Buddhism. She was also appointed as a guardian of dharma by Yama, lord of death. Her retinue consists of the lion-headed dakini Simhamukha (Sengdongma) behind her and the Makara-headed dakini Makaravaktra holding the reins of the mule in front of Palden Lhamo. Surrounding them are the 4 Goddesses of the Seasons, the 5 Sisters of Long Life, and the 12 Tenma goddesses.”

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dreaminginthedeepsouth · 2 years

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In light of the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe vs Wade, today we're reflecting on the female deities in our collection that are revered in many different traditions throughout the Himalayas. In Tibetan Buddhism, female spiritual deities, known as dakinis, hold immense amounts of power, teaching and guiding practitioners to awakening. In Tibetan Buddhism, Tantric practitioners are required to respect women and female deities in tantra are not only consorts of male deities but have their own identities. This work depicts the dakini Vajrayogini. In many esoteric Buddhist traditions, Vajrayogini is considered to be the ultimate expression of tantric Buddhahood. Vajrayogini embodies the wisdom of all buddhas. Originally, she was a consort for the Buddhist deity Chakrasamvara, but she eventually developed a cult and practice of her own. She demonstrates that all beings can achieve enlightenment through the tantric path, no matter what gender their body may be. _______ The Red Yogini; Vajrayogini; Tibet; 19th century; pigments on cloth; Rubin Museum of Art; C2002.24.11 (HAR 65127)

[Rubin Museum of Art]

* * * *

“Monotheism is haunted by set-theoretical paradox, because there must always be an excess, of outsiders who cannot be accommodated to the Kingdom of Heaven. It can only be one if it is not two, but if it is only one and not two, then this means it does not in fact include two, which means it cannot really be one. Oneness requires there to be some surplus or remainder, which will nevertheless then compromise any claim of any One to be All-in-one. This remainder has many names: evil; the Devil, sin; woman; time.” — Steven Connor, In Defence of Quantity: Living by Numbers

[alive on all channels]

#women #Red Yogini #Tibet #Rubin Museum #about art #deities #quotes #Steven Connor #Alive On All Channels #monotheism #quote

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talonabraxas · 9 months

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Yab-Yum Talon Abraxas

Yab-yum (Tibetan meaning "father-mother") is a common symbol in the Buddhist art of India, Bhutan, Nepal and Tibet representing the male deity in sexual union with his female consort. Often the male deity is sitting in lotus position while his consort is sitting in his lap.

The symbolism is associated with Anuttarayoga tantra and, while there are various interpretations of the symbolism in the twilight language, the male figure is usually linked to compassion (karuṇā) and skillful means (upāya-kauśalya), while the female partner to 'insight' (prajñā).

The symbolism of union and sexual polarity is a central teaching Tantric Buddhism, especially in Tibet. The union is realised by the practitioner as a mystical experience within one's own body.

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lingshanhermit · 16 days

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Lingshan Hermit: Not Defining Anything and the Great Perfection Dharma

Not defining anything can be said to be the realm of the Great Perfection in Buddhism. You do not define any form, sound, smell, taste, touch, or dharma, and you do not define any behavior. You do not grasp or interpret any form, sound, smell, taste, touch, or dharma. All behavior is manifested without self-nature, and therefore all behavior becomes pure conduct that is not defiled or defined by concepts. This is what we usually refer to as the pure view of the Vajrayana. In such a state, all value judgments cannot exist, because there is no judger and no one being judged. The various concepts we use to define things—male and female, beautiful and ugly, good and bad, color, shape, size, closeness and distance, etc.—they all need to depend on the judger and the judged to exist. When both the judger and the judged do not exist, they cannot survive. All things are kept in their original state, not defiled by our concepts. This is also the nature of things. However, all of this has nothing to do with ordinary people, and even has nothing to do with most practitioners. Because this is the highest realm of Buddhist practice, 99% of practitioners may not be able to reach such a realm in their lifetime. Ordinary people, as long as they are alive and awake, are always defining various things. You will define the sounds you hear, the people you see, the beer you drink, the scent of Sicilian almond perfume on a woman, the sweat on your back, and a thought that suddenly pops into your mind. Your eyes, ears, nose, tongue, body, and mind are always busy grasping and interpreting various internal and external information, and then making various reactions based on your habitual tendencies, karmic forces, and ideas, creating various good, evil, and neutral karma, and finally following the flow of karma in various realms. This is the basic state and life of all sentient beings except those who have attained enlightenment. They are constantly defining, defining, and re-defining, defining all perceived forms, sounds, smells, tastes, touches, and dharmas, without ever stopping.

We all know that the demon king is very smart, and he likes to use Buddhist concepts to fight against Buddhism. I recently found that many people like to say that they are a person who cannot be defined. This is very humorous, isn't it? A person who constantly defines all things and has never had a moment's pause says that he is a person who cannot be defined. Of course, what they are saying is definitely not what we are talking about. What I just said is the highest realm of Buddhism. Even among Buddhist practitioners, it is rare to find people who truly understand this realm.

Those who like to say that they cannot be defined, in my opinion, what they mean by not being defined is actually not accepting any advice or suggestions, refusing any well-intentioned advice that hinders them from going to their death. This is what they mean by not being defined by anyone. Usually, one of my standards for distinguishing whether a person is smart or stupid is to see whether he agrees with this kind of popular concept immediately. If a person accepts this kind of popular thing quickly and has a head full of these things, it at least shows that he is not a smart person and has no thinking ability, so he will just follow the crowd. In traditional culture, we learn from experienced people, and we accept advice from elders or seniors, because their well-intentioned advice will save us a lot of detours. But this will make the demon king very unhappy, and all the traps he has dug will be useless. So he will try every means to destroy this good tradition. For this, he invented the concept of not being defined. You feel that you should not be defined by anyone, and you do not accept anyone saying that you can't do this well. You will regard any experience sharing from others as an insult to yourself. You refuse to accept any suggestions and refuse all advice. This basically clears all obstacles on your way to the cliff, allowing you to forge ahead on the path of self-destruction. I dare not imagine what would happen if such a person became a practitioner.

If you observe carefully, you will find that this concept does not come from traditional culture at all. This concept presupposes that everyone is malicious and imagines everyone as a person who harms you, thus refusing any suggestions and advice. You will find that it comes from the same source as those views that believe everyone has a vested interest.

Written by Lingshan Hermit on May 9, 2024.

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灵山居士：不定义任何事物与大圆满

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hadeschan · 1 month

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item # K22D39

RARE Pra Khun Paen Kumanthong Luang Phor Guay, Lor Pim Luang Phu Glaai Wat Hong Rattanaram, Nua Din Jet Pacha Pasom Pong Gradook Phee Tai Hong Jet Pa Cha. A baked clay Pra Khun Paen amulet with figure of Buddha in Mara Vichai Gesture (Victory (vichai) over the Mara) seating before an elaborate arch with a Kumarnthong lying with crossed legs in the front of Buddha. This style of amulet of Luang Phor Guay copied the BE 2498 (CE 1955) work of Luang Phu Glaai of Wat Hong Rattanaram that Luang Phor Guay attended the blessing / Consecration Ceremony and ritual at the temple of Wat Hong Rattanaram, Bangkok. Made from Din Jet Pa Cha (earth taken from the hearts of 7 most haunted cemeteries) blended with powder and fragments of human bonestaken from 7 most haunted cemeteries (Gradook Phee Tai Hong Jet Pa Cha), sacred minerals and holy water. Made by Luang Phor Guay of Wat Khositaram (Wat Ban Khae), Chai Nat Province after BE 2498 (CE 1955).

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BEST FOR: You will NEVER be alone EVER, the spirits are with you everywhere you go. They are following you all the time. They watch your back, they protect you, and your family and prevent danger. They blinds people who are going to harm you. They cast magic charm and love spells on people around you. Pra Khun Paen is one of Thailand’s Best amulets for Nak-layng, ruffian (a violent person, especially one involved in crime), Mafia Boss, Crime Prevention Police Officer, Park Ranger, Field Soldier and Nak-layng Poo Ying (a connoisseur of women / a womanizer). Kumanthong helps protect and guard your properties, and do best at safeguarding all your family members. Not only the spirits may communicate with you in dreams, or be seen or heard in daily life, but they also provide affection and companionship. Mahasanay (Magic Charm) it helps turn you to prince charming in the eyes of girls, Metta Maha Niyom (it helps make people love you, and be nice to you), Kaa Kaai Dee (it helps tempt your customers to buy whatever you are selling and it helps attract new customers and then keep them coming back. Wealth & Prosperity, Maha Laap (it brings lucky wealth). It warns danger coming ahead, Klawklad Plodpai (it helps push you away from all danger), Kongkraphan (it makes you invulnerable to all weapon attack), and Maha-ut (it stops gun from shooting at you). Ponggan Poot-pee pee-saat Kunsai Mondam Sa-niat jan-rai Sat Meepit (it helps ward off evil spirit, demon, bad ghost, bad omen, bad spell, curse, accursedness, black magic, misfortune, doom, and poisonous animals). And this amulet helps protect you from manipulators, backstabbers, and toxic people. Baihuay, the spirits of the dead may tell/give hints of winning lottery numbers. And the force of the bad intentions / activities / behaviors from your enemies hitting you, the Khata Sà-tón Klap Spell puts an equal force back onto them, meaning those bad intentions / activities / behaviors bounce back up to your enemies.

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Pra Khun Paen

The Pra Khun Paen is a type of amulet with figure of Pra Buddha Chinnaraj of Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat Woramahawihan (Wat Yai or Wat Pra Buddha Chinnaraj) seating inside an elaborate arch. This type of amulet was first discovered at Wat Pra Roop Archaeology Site, Suphan Buri Province. And such type of ancient baked clay amulet with figure of Pra Buddha Chinnaraj is called “Pra Khun Paen” ever since. It was called Pra Khun Paen to honor the Thai famous Warrior General Khun Paen, the Governor of Suphan Buri Province in the Kingdom of Ayutthaya.

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Kumanthong

Kuman Thong is an effigy, or statue which is revered in Thailand by animists. They are believed to bring luck and fortune to the owner, if properly revered. Kuman, or Kumara (Pali) means “young boy” (female kumari); thong means golden. Kuman thong is not a Buddhist practice, but necromancy. Genuine Kuman Thong, which was revered and created in ancient times according to traditional method by Adept practitioners of Saiyasart, was made by surgically removing the unborn fetus from the womb of its Mother. The body of the child would then be taken to a cemetery for the conduction of the ceremony to invoke a Kuman Thong. The body is roasted until dry whilst the Mage chants incantations of magical kata. In the case of making a female spirit child, the effigy is not called Kuman Tong, rather “Hong Pray”.

Some Kuman effigies will be soaked in Nam Man Prai, which has extract of a dead child or a person who died in violent circumstances or an unnatural death. This is much less common now, because this practice is now illegal if using fat from human babies for the consecrating oil. There are however still some authentically made amulets appearing. Some years ago a famous monk was thrown out of the Buddhist sangha for roasting a baby. He was convicted, but later continued to make magic as a layperson after his release. The practice of creating Necromantic effigies of a Kuman Tong comes from age old tradition in Thailand. Thai folk have made Bucha to Animistic spirits and ghosts since time immemorial. The original Kuman Tong came from children who died whilst still in their mother’s womb. The Magic makers would take these stillborn babies and adopt them as their children.

From what information has been gathered from ancient Thai manuscripts about how to make a Kuman Tong, it appears that the correct method is to remove the dead baby surgically from the mother’s womb, and take it to undergo the proper ceremonial ritual; The baby must be roasted until dry. This must be completed before dawn, and should be performed in a cemetery. Once the rite is completed, the dry-roasted Kuman should be painted with Ya Lak (a kind of lacquer used to cover amulets and Takrut with gold leaf, and covered in gold leaf. This is the real reason why this effigy received the name of “Kuman Thong” (which means “Golden Baby Boy”).

Origins: In Thailand, the Kuman Thong is also spoken of in the legend of Khun Chang Khun Phaen, where the character Khun Phaen made one by removing the stillborn baby from the stomach of his wife.

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The amulet made from soil or earth

The soil or earth is the oldest minerals on Earth, it accumulates all power of good deeds of all Arhats (or Luohan), Bodhisattva and Buddha as long as you and your enemies are standing/living on the earth, the Pra Mae Thoranee (the Earth Goddess) will witness good deeds and bad deeds, if you have made good deeds, then your good deeds have already witnessed by Pra Mae Thoranee, Pra Mae Thoranee will help you, and your enemies could not do any harm to you. And the difficulties of your life, Pra Mae Thoranee also witnesses, and Pra Mae Thoranee will ease all of your difficulties.

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DIN JET PA CHA

Din Jet Pa Cha refers to earth taken from 7 most haunted cemeteries. It is believed that the earth from cemetery contains the spirits of the dead, and accumulates mystical power.

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Gradook Phee Tai Hong Jet Pa Cha

Fragments of human bones (Gradook Phee Tai Hong Jet Pa Cha). The human bone powder which were taken from 7 most haunted cremation sites. The Phee Tai Hong in Thai refers to death due to violence for example; homicide, suicide, traffic-related death. Those hairs of Phee Tai Hong used for making this amulet had to die on Saturday, and had their body cremations on Tuesday.

The spirit of Phee Tai Hong is believed to be trapped in the purgatory, and sunk in its own thought. Purgatory, also called The World between Worlds, is a spiritual realm that traps lost and tortured souls. Guru monks or White Robe Archan who has highest ability of magic to pull spirits of Phi Tai Hong out of the purgatory, and later enter the physical realm (human world), and ask his/her spirit to stay in the amulets. The spirit in this amulet will help its master to do anything his/her asks for, and the spirit would gain merits from helping its master, and carry its merits to the next world.

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THE AMULETS MADE FROM HOLY POWDER THAT CONTAIN HUMAN REMAINS

The amulet that was made from holy powder blended with sacred herb, holy powder and mystical minerals is known as “Pong Prai Kumarn Maha Phood”, the Guru Monks who have ability to make this type of Holy Powder must have “wí-chaa aa-kom” a high knowledge of magical spells and mind power to control spirits that come with human remains and those sacred herb, NOT every monk could make Pong Prai Kumarn Maha Phood.

The Guru Monk who made this type of amulet had to perform ritual ceremonies to turn / ordain ghosts (spirits) of the dead to “monks”, in Thai called “Buet Phee”. The ghosts (spirits) will not do any harm to the amulet wearers. Those spirits will only do good things and help the amulet wearers for their own merit. Those spirits would live in the amulets, and would not leave the amulets until their karma end, and circles of lives on earth start again, and each day in spirit world is equal to 100 ordinary solar years of our planet.

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“ขอศิษย์ทั้งหลายอย่าอดอย่าอยากอย่ายากอย่าจนอย่าต่ำกว่าคนอย่าจนกว่าเขา”

“All of my Looksit (disciples / followers /adherents/ worshippers / devotees) will be away from destitution, failure, hardship & difficulty in living, poverty, inferiority, and deterioration in quality of life.”

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Luang Phor Guay was highly respected by Luang Phor Pare of Wat Pikulthong, Singburi Province. Many Batches of Luang Phor Pare’s amulets were blessed by Luang Phor Guay first, Luang Phor Pare would bring them to Luang Phor Guay and ask Luang Phor Guay to bless them for him before the Grand Blessing Ceremonies…

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*All of the amulet made by Luang Phor Guay, the last mantra that Luang Phor Guay blessed on amulets was “The Khata Sà-tón Klap (The Bouncing Back Mantra)”. The force of the bad intentions / activities / behaviors from your enemies hitting you, the Khata Sà-tón Klap puts an equal force back onto them, meaning those bad intentions / activities / behaviors bounce back up to your enemies.

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LUANG PHOR GUAY

Luang Phor Guay was an abbot of Wat Kositaram (Wat Ban Khae), Chainat Province living between (BE 2448 to BE 2522)

Luang Phor Guay was a disciple of many Legendary Guru Monks, for instance;

- The Holy Luang Phu Tao of Wat Kaang Kaao, a senior brotherhood of Luang Phu Suk of Wat Pak Klong Makham-tao

- The Holy Luang Phu Sri of Wat Pra Prang

- The Holy Luang Phor Derm of Wat Nong Pho

The supernatural power of Luang Phor Guay experienced by his Looksit (disciples / followers /adherents/ worshippers / devotees)

1)An ability to know the future.

2)An ability to shoot clay ball bullets from a sling bow with cursive path (line of fire) to any targets Luang Phor Guay wanted, no matter how far they were.

3)An ability to make a ring to be put on anybody’s fingers no matter where they were by blowing rings from Luang Phor Guay’s palms.

4)Photo shootings without Luang Phor Guay’s permission, those photos would be blurry or camera malfunctions.

5)An ability to make people who just visited Luang Phor Guay not to recognize Luang Phor Guay after leaving Luang Phor Guay.

6)An ability to stop gun from firing at him or anyone

7)An ability to make gun malfunction by squeezing out a piece of cloth in his hands.

8)An ability to make ants to return to their nest hole.

9)An ability to bless chicken food, and made chickens eat it if the chickens or the chicken eggs were stolen, and later eaten by the thieves, the thieves would got Dermatophytosis or Ringworm on their skins.

10)An ability to use a rock tying up with a robe, and beat up his looksit, and looksit felt no pain.

11)An ability to stop the gun from firing by saying “the gun jammed”.

12)An ability to treat people with headache by pinching their own thumbs.

13)An ability to heal people with broken bones.

14)An ability to replace the pain during child labor from wives to their husbands.

15)An ability to turn a man to both a crocodile, and then a tiger or vice versa.

16)An ability to turn midrib of a banana leaf to a green snake, and a loincloth belt to a cobra.

17)An ability to turn leaves of Maerua siamensis (Kurz) Pax tree to wasps.

18)An ability to turn a joss stick wrapped with red paper to a Siamese fighting fish.

19)An ability to hold burning charcoal in his hands

20)An ability to pick anything that his hand could hold from anyplace, no matter how far they were.

21) Luang Phor Guay’s message to his looksit would come true.

22)An ability to make his amulets floating in the water or flying in the air.

23)An ability to command wasps to sting any people he wanted. And command turtles to search for anybody he wanted.

24)An ability to toss his amulets into the air, and those amulets were flying to people whom he wanted to give amulets to, no matter where they lived.

25)An ability to know if his Looksit were assaulted or in danger, no matter where they were at.

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THE AMULETS OF LUANG PHOR GUAY

Luang Phor Guay made and blessed all of his amulets by himself. Mon Pra Gaan, the Lord Kala in Sanskrit, the Pra Gaan Mantra, the one who is beyond time (death) and universe and all life within, and the god of death. Those who have good intentions of using Luang Phor Guay’s amulets would be blessed, those who are not will be doomed. And all amulets made by Luang Phor Guay, at the final of blessing ritual, Luang Phor Guay would end with Khata Sa-ton-klap. Such Khata has a power that helps protect amulet wears from manipulators, backstabbers, and toxic people. Not only protection from those kind of people, but also people who are thinking a “bad” thought about the amulet wearers will also be doomed.

REMARK: According to Looksit (disciples / followers / adherents / worshippers / devotees) of Luang Phor Guay, Luang Phor Guay made amulets every day to release his mind power (Grasin Fire) that generated heat in his body, and Luang Phor Guay NEVER made amulets for sale. Luang Phor Guay just gave amulets to anybody he wanted.

THE BLESSING PROCESS OF AMULETS OF LUANG PHOR GUAY

Luang Phor Guay blessed his amulets at the 7 times of the day firstly in the early morning, in the late morning, in the afternoon, in the late afternoon, in the evening, in the late evening, and at midnight. These 7 times of blessing was said to be the blessing process of Black Magic, and to prolong/extent the lives of people who wear his amulets in case that people’s lifespan on earth are shorten by their bad karma. And only best guru monks or Best white robe masters could perform such rituals. Luang Phor Guay would pick the day on auspicious constellations (Rerk Mongkon), master of devil constellations (Rerk Boon Phraya Maan), and criminal constellations (Jora Rerk). Luang Phor Guay said that the Rerk Boon Phraya Maan, and Jora Rerk are constellations that help criminals, and evil people to successfully commit their crimes, and amulets of Luang Phor Guay would perform miracles to persuade those bad people to believe in good and bad karma, then they will return to support Buddhism, and finally, they will be decent citizens.

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DIMENSION: 4.10 cm high / 2.50 cm wide / 0.80 cm thick

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item # K22D39

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mahayanapilgrim · 7 months

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Dakinis in Indian Mythology: Mystical Beings of the Sacred Places

Dakinis are enigmatic beings deeply rooted in the spiritual and mythological traditions of India. They are often depicted as supernatural female entities, characterized by their otherworldly appearance and mystical abilities. In this essay, we will explore the concept of Dakinis in Indian culture, their symbolism, characteristics, and their connection to the twenty-four sacred places and valleys.

1. Historical and Cultural Background:

The term "Dakini" finds its origins in ancient Indian scriptures, particularly in the Tantric and Vajrayana Buddhist traditions. Dakinis have been a subject of fascination and reverence in these spiritual practices for centuries. They are considered to be both divine and fearsome, embodying a complex duality.

2. Dakini Symbolism:

Dakinis are often portrayed as supernatural females with distinct characteristics:

a. Fearsome Appearance: Dakinis are typically depicted with fangs, red hair, and long nails, which contribute to their intimidating appearance.

b. Blood Symbolism: The notion of drinking blood can be metaphorical, representing the Dakinis' connection to life force and vitality rather than literal consumption.

c. Miraculous Abilities: Dakinis are believed to possess supernatural powers, including the ability to perform miracles, heal, and guide spiritual seekers.

3. Connection to Sacred Places:

Dakinis are closely associated with the twenty-four sacred places and valleys in India. These locations are considered highly spiritual and are believed to be inhabited or influenced by Dakinis. Some well-known sacred places include Kailash, Varanasi, and Bodh Gaya. The connection between Dakinis and these sites is multifaceted:

a. Spiritual Guardians: Dakinis are often seen as spiritual protectors of these sacred places, ensuring their sanctity and guiding pilgrims on their spiritual journeys.

b. Transformational Energy: The presence of Dakinis in these locations is thought to facilitate transformative experiences for those who visit, helping them on their path to enlightenment.

c. Rituals and Offerings: In some traditions, rituals and offerings are made to Dakinis as a sign of respect and to seek their blessings.

4. Dakinis in Buddhism:

In Tibetan Buddhism, Dakinis hold a significant place. They are often considered enlightened beings who help practitioners in their spiritual advancement. Dakini practices, such as Chöd, are a crucial part of Vajrayana Buddhism, emphasizing the wisdom and compassion of these mystical beings.

5. Dakinis in Popular Culture:

Dakinis continue to inspire art, literature, and contemporary interpretations. Their allure as powerful and mysterious beings has transcended their traditional roots and influenced various forms of creative expression.

Dakinis are intriguing and multifaceted beings deeply intertwined with the spiritual and mythological tapestry of India. Their representation as supernatural, semi-divine females with mystical powers has captivated the imaginations of spiritual seekers and artists alike. Their connection to the twenty-four sacred places and valleys adds depth to their significance, as they are seen as guides and protectors of these hallowed sites, aiding those who seek enlightenment and transformation on their spiritual journeys.

#Dakini #buddha #buddhism #buddhist #dharma #sangha #mahayana #zen #milarepa #tibetan buddhism #thich nhat hanh #padmasambhava #Guru Rinpoche #Longchenpa

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