The concept of the “Self” lies at the core of many spiritual and philosophical traditions. It is often described as the most fundamental aspect of our being, the true essence of who we are. However, the Self is not something we can easily grasp through our usual means of understanding, like thought, perception, or intellect. It transcends our physical, mental, and emotional experiences, yet it is ever-present and underlies all of them. In this chapter, we will explore what the Self is, how it differs from the ego or personality, and why understanding the Self is key to realizing true reality. The Self as Pure Consciousness At its essence, the Self is pure consciousness. It is the awareness that observes all experiences, but it is not limited by or attached to those experiences. It is the unchanging witness of all that arises in life—the thoughts, emotions, sensations, and perceptions we experience daily. To grasp this concept, think about a movie screen. The screen remains ...
The
Sri Yantra is a sacred symbol in Hinduism and is considered to be one
of the most powerful symbols for spiritual growth and divine
manifestation. It represents the union of the individual self with the
divine, and is believed to bring blessings and abundance to those who
contemplate or meditate upon it.
The Sri Yantra is composed of
nine interlocking triangles, which are arranged in such a way as to form
43 smaller triangles. These triangles symbolize the manifest and
unmanifest aspects of the universe and represent the different aspects
of the divine, including creation, preservation, and destruction. The
central point of the Sri Yantra, known as the bindu, represents the
ultimate reality and the absolute truth.
In Hindu spirituality,
the Sri Yantra is seen as a powerful tool for connecting with the divine
and attaining spiritual enlightenment. By focusing on the symbol, one
can cultivate a deep sense of inner peace and connection to the divine.
It's often used in meditation, yoga, and other spiritual practices as a
way to deepen one's connection to the divine and to bring abundance and
blessings into one's life.
In this context, the Sri Yantra serves
as a symbol of the path towards God, representing the journey from the
individual self to the divine, and serving as a reminder to cultivate a
sense of inner peace and connection to the divine.
The Sri Yantra can be incorporated into interior design as a spiritual element in various ways. Here are a few examples:
Wall Hanging: A Sri Yantra wall hanging can serve as a focal point
in a room, creating a spiritual atmosphere and helping to focus the mind
during meditation or spiritual practices.
Rug or Mat: A Sri Yantra rug or mat can serve as a grounding element
in a room, reminding one of the path towards the divine and helping to
create a sense of inner peace and harmony.
Decorative Element: The Sri Yantra can be incorporated into other
decorative elements, such as candles, sculptures, or curtains, to bring a
spiritual touch to a space and create a peaceful and harmonious
atmosphere.
Paint or Stencil: The Sri Yantra can be painted or stenciled onto a
wall or other surface to create a larger representation of the symbol
and bring a spiritual touch to a room.
Incorporating the Sri
Yantra into interior design can help to create a space that is conducive
to spiritual practice and inner reflection. The symbol serves as a
reminder to cultivate a sense of inner peace and connection to the
divine, and can help to create a peaceful and harmonious atmosphere in a
home or spiritual space.