Tag Archives: Hinduism

Story of Shiva & his Ganja

In the quiet stillness of Mount Kailash, Shiva sat in deep meditation. His eyes half-closed, his breath slow and steady, he let the universe swirl around him like a river. Time did not exist for the god of destruction; moments were infinite, and every inhale connected him to the essence of all that is.

But one day, a gentle breeze carried the scent of something wild and earthy. Shiva opened his eyes and followed it, curious. Beneath a tall, ancient tree, he found a plant with vibrant green leaves that seemed to hum with life. He plucked a leaf, rolled it between his fingers, and smiled—a knowing smile, as though recognizing an old friend. This was no ordinary plant; it was a gift of the earth herself, born to calm storms and awaken the soul.

As Shiva lit the leaf, he felt its smoke rise into his lungs, spreading like a warm river of peace. His mind expanded, his body softened, and the weight of the cosmos lifted from his shoulders. In that moment, he felt deeply connected—not only to the universe but to the beauty and simplicity of life itself. The plant brought him clarity, a profound stillness beyond thought and words. It wasn’t an escape but an opening, a doorway into the infinite.

From that day on, Shiva embraced the plant as a companion during his meditations. He loved it not for indulgence but for the way it aligned his body and spirit, helping him dance between the realms of existence and nothingness. It reminded him of his true nature—wild, free, and unshackled by time.

The gods watched in awe, puzzled by Shiva’s fondness for this humble plant. Some whispered that it was strange for a deity to love such earthly things. But Shiva only laughed, the kind of deep, booming laugh that echoes across creation.

“Ganja,” he said, “is a gift for those who seek peace within chaos. It quiets the noise of the world and awakens the truth hidden in the heart.”

And so, Shiva became the protector of the sacred plant, sharing it with wandering sadhus and seekers of the soul. To this day, in the forests and mountains, in the hearts of those who seek, Shiva’s breath lingers in every curl of smoke—a reminder that even the simplest things can carry the universe within them.

Shiva Sadhu Smoking Ganja

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Govinda Jaya Jaya & Hare Krishna Kirtan at Kona Interfaith Concert 2023

Govinda Jaya Jaya & Hare Krishna Kirtan by Sakshi Zion & friends at last years (2023) annual Interfaith Concert at the Lutheran Church of the Holy Trinity in Kona, Hawaii.

Joining me was Karmic Atese (vocals), Triona (vocals), Kaimalu (keys) & Krishna Chaitanya (mridanga) it was a beautiful experience!

The mantra Govinda Jaya Jaya translates to “Govinda (another name for Krishna), glory, glory.” It celebrates the divine qualities of Lord Krishna, often revered as the embodiment of love, compassion, and joy. This mantra is a cornerstone of Kirtan, a devotional practice originating in the Bhakti Yoga tradition, which seeks to connect with the divine through collective singing.

Similarly, the Hare Krishna Maha Mantra—“Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare, Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare”—is a profound invocation of divine energy, calling upon Krishna and Rama as aspects of the supreme consciousness. Both mantras are imbued with spiritual power, as their vibrations are said to awaken the soul’s innate connection with the divine, purify the heart, and instill bliss and tranquility in the practitioner.

In Kirtan, these mantras create a communal spiritual resonance, uplifting participants into a shared state of devotion and transcendence.

Sri Krishna Govinda

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Om Mata Kali Kirtan at Kona Interfaith Concert 2023

Om Mata Kali Kirtan by Sakshi Zion & friends at last years (2023) annual Interfaith Concert at the Lutheran Church of the Holy Trinity Lutheran Church of the Holy Trinity in Kona, Hawaii.

Joining me was Karmic Atese (vocals), Triona (vocals), Kaimalu Harmon (keys) & Krishna Chaitanya (mridanga) it was a beautiful experience!

Translation:

  • “Om Mata Kali”: “Salutations to Mother Kali,” invoking the cosmic mother in her fierce and transformative form.
  • “Jai Maa”: “Victory to the Mother,” a cry of devotion and celebration of the Divine Feminine.
  • “Sri Maa”: “Holy Mother” or “Revered Mother,” an acknowledgment of the sacred and nurturing presence of the universal mother.

Mystical Interpretation:

These mantras honor the Divine Mother in her various forms, particularly as Kali, the fierce yet compassionate force of transformation and liberation. “Om Mata Kali” invokes her energy to destroy ignorance, fear, and ego, paving the way for spiritual rebirth. “Jai Maa” is a heartfelt declaration of surrender and gratitude, celebrating her infinite power and grace. “Sri Maa” reveres her as the source of all creation and nurturance, reminding the chanter of her protective, loving presence. Together, these mantras call forth the Divine Mother’s power to guide, protect, and transform the devotee on their spiritual journey.

Blessings and Strength to Interfaith Ecumenical dialogue that continues to inspire and bridge the gaps and divides of religions and politics by bringing more knowledge and unity to our communities and world!

Knowing we are All One ☝️ One Love One Heart One God One Aim One Destiny 💓

Kali Maa

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Jaya Ganesha Kirtan at Kona Interfaith Concert 2023

Jaya Ganesha Kirtan by Sakshi Zion & friends at last years (2023) annual Interfaith Concert at the Lutheran Church of the Holy Trinity in Kona, Hawaii.

Joining me was Karmic Atese (vocals), Triona (vocals), Kaimalu (keys) & Krishna Chaitanya (mridanga) it was a beautiful experience!

Translation:

  • “Jaya Ganesha”: “Victory to Ganesha” or “Hail Lord Ganesha.” It is an invocation of praise, celebrating Ganesha’s triumph over obstacles and his divine wisdom.
  • “Ganesha Sharanam”: “I take refuge in Ganesha” or “Ganesha is my sanctuary.” This expresses surrender and trust in Ganesha’s guidance and protection.

Mystical Interpretation:

These mantras invoke the energy of Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the harbinger of new beginnings. Chanting “Jaya Ganesha” connects the chanter to divine strength, invoking the power to overcome challenges with grace. “Ganesha Sharanam” represents a surrender of ego and trust in the higher intelligence of the universe, symbolized by Ganesha. Together, the mantras serve as a spiritual tool to dissolve inner and outer barriers, align with divine will, and invite clarity, wisdom, and protection on the seeker’s path.

Blessings and Strength to Interfaith Ecumenical dialogue that continues to inspire and bridge the gaps and divides of religions and politics by bringing more knowledge and unity to our communities and world!

Knowing we are All One ☝️ One Love One Heart One God One Aim One Destiny 💓

Sri Ganesha

Thanks for visiting my blog! To learn more about this Esoteric Wisdom and to start your own journey with a team of like-minded and inspired Wisdom Seekers, forging a way to make the world a better place for all, just like you…

Click here & listen to our Daily Mastermind Call (recorded live Mon-Fri) & also I invite you to work directly with me. I’m here to help! Send me a message to discuss your interests and questions.

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Baroda, Michigan and its mystical name origins from India

Baroda, Michigan

The town of Baroda in Michigan was founded by European settlers in the 19th century, and its name was inspired by the Indian city of Baroda (now Vadodara) in Gujarat. The town was named by Michael Houser, a settler and entrepreneur originally from Bavaria, Germany, who established a sawmill and post office there in the 1860s. Houser was reportedly fascinated by exotic names and places, and when it came time to name the town, he chose “Baroda” after the Indian city, possibly for its uniqueness and appeal.

This was a common trend in the United States during that period; many settlers gave American towns names of far-off or famous places, reflecting either a romantic fascination or an intent to give their new communities an air of importance and distinction.

While Baroda, Michigan, may not have a widely known mystical or spiritual reputation, the town is situated in an area rich in natural beauty, surrounded by Michigan’s rolling countryside and Lake Michigan’s coastline. This scenic landscape has an inherently calming and grounding quality, which can lend itself to a sense of natural spirituality and connection to the land. The town’s close ties to agriculture and its vineyards in particular give it a unique connection to the earth, fostering a sense of rhythm with the seasons.

The town’s name, originating from the mystical-sounding Baroda in India, may also subtly influence the perception of the place. Names carry energy, and for some, “Baroda” might evoke a sense of intrigue or even spiritual resonance, considering the Indian Baroda’s long history of royal patronage, art, and philosophical development. The natural serenity and slower pace of life in Baroda, Michigan, can offer an opportunity for personal reflection, perhaps attracting those who seek spiritual growth or a deeper connection to nature.

The origins of the name Baroda from India

Baroda, India

Baroda, officially known as Vadodara, is a city in the Indian state of Gujarat with a rich historical and cultural background. The name “Vadodara” is derived from the Sanskrit word Vatodara, which means “in the heart of the Banyan tree” (vat meaning “banyan” and udara meaning “stomach” or “heart”). This refers to the abundance of banyan trees in the region, symbolizing protection and sustenance in Indian culture.

Historically, Vadodara was ruled by various dynasties, including the Chalukyas, the Delhi Sultanate, the Mughals, and later the Marathas. The Gaekwads, a prominent Maratha family, established their rule in the 18th century, making Vadodara their capital. Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, one of the most renowned rulers of Vadodara, modernized the city and promoted education, art, and infrastructure, earning Vadodara its reputation as a cultural hub. He founded the Maharaja Sayajirao University, one of India’s premier universities, and invited artists and intellectuals to the city.

Baroda, India

Vadodara is known for its diverse cultural heritage, including classical Indian music, dance, and visual arts. The city hosts Navratri, a nine-night festival dedicated to the goddess Durga, which is celebrated with traditional garba and dandiya dances. Vadodara’s architecture is another highlight, with structures like the Laxmi Vilas Palace, one of the largest private residences in the world, combining Indo-Saracenic and European architectural styles. The city’s history of patronage and cultural richness makes it a vibrant center of Gujarati culture and heritage.

Lake Michigan

In Michigan, a few other towns and cities also bear names inspired by places in India, though they are relatively few. Here are some notable ones:

  1. Delhi Township – Located near Lansing, Michigan, this township was likely named after Delhi, the capital city of India. The name reflects the pattern of settlers choosing exotic or far-off place names, adding a sense of distinction to their communities.
  2. Bombay – Though technically not a town, a small unincorporated community named Bombay exists in Michigan’s Oceana County. It shares its name with the former name of Mumbai, India’s bustling metropolis.

These names reflect the broader trend in the United States, especially during the 19th and early 20th centuries, of naming towns after famous or exotic locations worldwide. Many of these names were chosen to evoke the allure of distant lands, although the actual cultural or historical connections to India might be minimal in these areas.

Downtown Baroda

Michigan also has towns with the named Ganges and Nirvana, both with names inspired by Indian cultural and spiritual concepts.

  1. Ganges, Michigan – Located in Allegan County, Ganges was likely named after the sacred Ganges River in India, which is considered deeply spiritual in Hinduism and symbolizes purity, life, and liberation. The settlers may have chosen this name for its spiritual resonance or to evoke the exotic and sacred aspects associated with the river in India.
  2. Nirvana, Michigan – Nirvana is an unincorporated community in Newaygo County. The name “Nirvana” has roots in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, representing a transcendent state free from suffering and the cycle of rebirth. Naming a town “Nirvana” may have been an attempt to invoke a sense of peace, spiritual freedom, or an idyllic place.

These towns reflect the influence of Eastern spirituality and philosophical concepts in Western culture, even if indirectly. The choice of names like “Ganges” and “Nirvana” in Michigan suggests a fascination with the mysticism associated with India and may attract curiosity or even a subtle spiritual significance to those who visit or live there.

There is legends of an Indian guru or swami or prince that visited Michigan and helped name some of these towns.. is there any truth to this?

There isn’t concrete historical evidence of an Indian guru, swami, or prince visiting Michigan and directly influencing the naming of towns like Ganges, Baroda, or Nirvana. However, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Indian spiritual teachers and figures did start visiting the United States, and their presence sparked interest in Indian spirituality and culture. Figures like Swami Vivekananda, who famously spoke at the Parliament of the World’s Religions in Chicago in 1893, helped introduce American audiences to Indian philosophies and spiritual practices, inspiring fascination with Indian names and concepts.

The naming of towns after Indian places or spiritual terms was more likely a result of American settlers’ general fascination with exotic or mystical-sounding names from around the world. For example, around this time, towns across the United States were frequently named after places like Rome, Cairo, and Athens, reflecting a trend of borrowing names from classical or “exotic” cultures. Indian names likely appealed in the same way, representing the allure and mystery of far-off places.

While no specific guru or swami directly named these Michigan towns, the interest in Indian culture and spirituality may have subtly influenced settlers’ naming choices. The allure of names like “Nirvana” or “Ganges” reflects a curiosity that might have been spurred by the growing awareness of Indian culture in the U.S.

Michigan’s towns with Indian-inspired names—like Ganges, Nirvana, Baroda, and Delhi Township—have some interesting legends and historical context, even if direct connections to India’s spiritual culture are sparse. Here’s a look at some of the stories, as well as the broader context of Indian influence in the area:

1. Ganges, Michigan

  • Legend of Spiritual Inspiration: Although Ganges in Allegan County is not known to have a direct historical link to India, the town’s name has inspired tales of settlers who were interested in spirituality and may have been influenced by the transcendental movement in the U.S. during the 19th century. This movement encouraged looking to Eastern philosophy for spiritual wisdom.
  • Spiritual Context: The Ganges River in India holds profound spiritual significance, symbolizing purity, rebirth, and connection to the divine. This symbolism may have appealed to early settlers seeking peace and a sense of renewal in the Michigan wilderness. Locals sometimes invoke these symbolic meanings, lending the area a kind of mystical atmosphere.

2. Nirvana, Michigan

  • Legends of Peace and Transformation: Nirvana, Michigan, named after the concept of enlightenment and freedom from suffering, has inspired local stories about the town as a place of tranquility. Although there’s no evidence of an Indian sage visiting Nirvana, the concept of “nirvana” aligns with the peaceful, rural atmosphere of the town. Some legends claim that travelers or residents found a unique sense of inner peace or healing here, giving it a symbolic connection to the idea of “nirvana.”
  • Possible Cultural Influence: The town was likely named by someone familiar with the idea of nirvana through the growing interest in Indian philosophy, Buddhism, and Theosophy during the early 20th century. The idea of reaching a peaceful state might have resonated with settlers seeking an idealistic and idyllic community.

3. Baroda, Michigan

  • Legend of Exotic Allure: As with Ganges, there are tales that Baroda was named to evoke the mystique and allure of India. Michael Houser, the Bavarian immigrant who established the town, reportedly liked the exotic sound of “Baroda.” Locals tell stories of Houser being drawn to the name because it sounded mystical, even if he didn’t fully understand its cultural significance.
  • No Confirmed Spiritual Event: While there’s no evidence of spiritual leaders visiting Baroda, the town’s name does hint at the influence of India’s reputation for mysticism. Over time, stories grew around the name, giving the town a romanticized link to India’s cultural heritage.

4. Delhi Township

  • Symbolic Connections: Named after Delhi, the capital of India, this township likely received its name as part of a broader trend of naming places in the U.S. after significant world cities. Although no legends connect Delhi Township directly to Indian spiritual practices, its name occasionally stirs curiosity about Indian culture.
  • Interest in Indian Culture: Given that this township was named during a period of growing interest in Eastern culture, residents may have been subtly influenced by the era’s fascination with Indian philosophy.

Broader Influence of Indian Spirituality in Michigan

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, the influence of Indian spiritual leaders began to grow in the United States, leading to a fascination with Indian culture across the country. While Michigan’s Indian-named towns may not have had direct spiritual events linked to them, here are some broader influences of Indian spirituality in Michigan:

  • Swami Vivekananda’s Influence: Swami Vivekananda’s address in Chicago in 1893 at the Parliament of the World’s Religions brought Indian philosophy into the American mainstream. While he didn’t travel to Michigan, his influence on Indian spiritual thought began spreading nationwide, creating a foundation for interest in places named after Indian concepts.
  • Paramahansa Yogananda’s Visit: Yogananda, the author of Autobiography of a Yogi, made visits around the Midwest in the 1920s and 1930s, promoting Kriya Yoga and Indian spirituality. His teachings sparked interest in Indian spirituality across the U.S., including in Michigan, though he is not recorded as having directly influenced the naming of towns.
  • Theosophical Society’s Reach: The Theosophical Society, which promoted Eastern spiritual ideas, had branches in the Midwest, including Michigan. The society helped popularize Indian spiritual ideas, including concepts like karma and nirvana, which could have influenced settlers or town leaders in choosing evocative Indian names.
  • Modern Spiritual and Yoga Communities: In more recent decades, Michigan has seen a rise in yoga centers, meditation retreats, and Indian cultural festivals, adding layers of Indian spiritual heritage to the state. Events like the Michigan Yoga Festival, Diwali celebrations, and other Indian cultural festivals are now regular occurrences, linking Michigan’s interest in Indian spirituality to a contemporary context.

While Michigan’s Indian-named towns might not have been directly named by Indian gurus or swamis, the Indian influence in the Midwest remains significant, with spiritual and cultural ideas quietly shaping local consciousness and adding a layer of intrigue and meaning to these towns’ names.

Arati Ceremony at Vivekananda Monastery in Ganges, Michigan

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Spiritual Significance of Annada Ekadasi

Annada Ekadasi, also known as Aja Ekadasi, is a significant Hindu fasting day dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It occurs during the waning phase of the moon in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada (August-September). This day holds great spiritual significance and is believed to grant liberation from sins, fulfillment of desires, and the blessings of prosperity and well-being.

Significance:

  1. Spiritual Cleansing and Merit: Fasting on Annada Ekadasi is believed to cleanse one’s sins and bring spiritual merit. Devotees observe the fast with the belief that it purifies the mind and body, helping to enhance devotion towards Lord Vishnu.
  2. Connection to Lord Vishnu: Annada Ekadasi is a day to honor and worship Lord Vishnu. It is believed that sincere observance of this fast pleases Lord Vishnu, who grants the devotee’s wishes and blesses them with a prosperous life and spiritual upliftment.
  3. Charity and Helping the Needy: The name “Annada” implies “giver of food,” emphasizing the importance of feeding the hungry and helping those in need on this day. Acts of charity are highly encouraged, as they are believed to multiply the spiritual benefits of fasting.

Legends Surrounding Annada Ekadasi:

One of the prominent legends associated with Annada Ekadasi involves the story of King Harishchandra, a righteous and truthful king who lost his kingdom, family, and wealth due to a series of misfortunes. According to the legend:

  • The Story of King Harishchandra: King Harishchandra was once the ruler of Ayodhya, renowned for his unwavering commitment to truth and righteousness. Due to a curse and the tests posed by Sage Vishwamitra, he lost everything and was reduced to working as a crematorium caretaker, separated from his family and enduring immense suffering.
  • Divine Guidance: After years of hardship, a sage advised Harishchandra to observe the fast of Annada Ekadasi. Following the sage’s advice, Harishchandra observed the fast with complete devotion to Lord Vishnu.
  • Miraculous Transformation: Pleased with his devotion, Lord Vishnu appeared before Harishchandra, restored his lost kingdom, and reunited him with his family. He was also blessed with the return of his deceased son. This legend underscores the power of Annada Ekadasi in granting divine grace, forgiveness, and the restoration of one’s fortunes.

Rituals:

  1. Fasting: Devotees fast from sunrise to the next morning, abstaining from grains, beans, and certain other foods. Some observe a strict waterless fast, while others may consume fruits and milk.
  2. Worship and Prayers: Devotees perform puja (worship) of Lord Vishnu with flowers, incense, and offerings, and chant Vishnu-related mantras or recite the Vishnu Sahasranama (a list of a thousand names of Lord Vishnu).
  3. Charity: Acts of charity, such as feeding the poor or donating to temples, are considered highly meritorious on this day.

Annada Ekadasi is a day of deep spiritual significance, reminding devotees of the virtues of truth, devotion, and the transformative power of divine grace through steadfast faith and adherence to dharma (righteousness).

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Ibn Arabi – Sufi Poet & Mystic

In his book The Sufis, Idries Shah provides a detailed account of the life and teachings of one of the most important figures of Sufism, Muhyi al-Din Ibn Arabi (1165-1240). Ibn Arabi was a prominent scholar, mystic, and poet whose writings contributed greatly to the development of Sufism and Islamic theology. Although his life and teachings were controversial in his lifetime, Ibn Arabi is considered an important figure in Islamic spirituality, and is known for his influential teachings on the concept of God’s unity and his emphasis on spiritual experience over intellectual knowledge. We will provide an overview of Ibn Arabi’s life and teachings, with a focus on the chapter in Shah’s book The Sufis about Ibn Arabi.

Biography

Ibn Arabi was born in Murcia, Spain, in 1165. His father was a lawyer from Seville, and his mother was from an important Andalusian noble family. Arabi was educated at the famous Al-Azhar Mosque in Cairo, Egypt, where he studied Islamic theology, philosophy, and Sufism. He was also influenced by the teachings of al-Ghazali, an influential medieval thinker and Sufi scholar whose works would later become one of the major sources of Ibn Arabi’s teachings.

At an early stage, Ibn Arabi developed a passionate interest in spirituality and mysticism, and began to develop his own powerful teachings. Eventually, he settled in Damascus and began to teach, travel, and write extensively. His writings spanned many topics, but focused primarily on his theories of unity, love, and integration. He wrote about the divine unity and the essential oneness of all creation, and about the need for a strong connection between the individual and the divine in order to find inner harmony and peace.

Ibn Arabi’s Teachings

Ibn Arabi’s most important contribution to Sufi teachings was his concept of unity in God, or wahdat al-wujud. He preached that since God is one, all of creation is essentially one with Him, and all beings share in His oneness. He believed that humans could experience the fullness of God’s unity through a direct experience of the divine within, and that this experience was a necessary prerequisite for spiritual development. He also believed that the self can only be fully realized when it is connected to the divine, and that this connection is achieved through the practice of dhikr, or remembrance of God.

In his writings, Ibn Arabi also sought to bridge the gap between philosophy and mystical experience, and to emphasize the importance of both forms of knowledge. He argued that true understanding of the divine cannot be achieved through theoretical knowledge alone, but must also rely on subjective experience and direct contemplation of the divine. He believed that the true nature of reality could only be experienced through the direct experience of unity with the divine. 

Ibn Arabi was one of the most important figures in Islamic spirituality. His writings explored the concept of God’s unity and emphasized the need for a strong connection between the individual and divine in order to find inner harmony and peace. His life and teachings provide a powerful example of the importance of spiritual experience in developing a deeper understanding of God and of the world.

The Neo-Platonic influences on Ibn Arabi

Throughout history, the Muslim philosopher Ibn Arabi has been revered for his insistence on universal spirituality, his ability to synthesize different metaphysical traditions, and his expansive view of the world. Ibn Arabi’s writings have been critical to the formation of Sufism and his works continue to be cited and debated in Islamic scholarship. While established as an important figure in classical Islamic theology, Ibn Arabi’s teachings were heavily influenced by Neo-Platonic concepts. We will survey some of the key Neo-Platonic ideas that imbued Ibn Arabi’s writings and discuss the ways in which these ideas were expressed and extended in the philosopher’s work.

The term “Neo-Platonism” first appears in the writings of 15th century German scholar Johannes Reuchlin, who used it to describe the renaissance of Platonism that was taking place in the Islamic world in the 13th century. This period saw a revival of Platonic thought in the Islamic world that was heavily influenced by Neopythagorean speculation on the nature of the heavens, the divine, and the soul. Neo-Platonism influenced a great many Muslim philosophers, including Ibn Arabi.

Ibn Arabi’s writings are immersed in Neo-Platonism, from his One Thousand and One Treatises of Philosophy, to his major work, the Meccan Revelations. In the One Thousand and One Treatises, for instance, Ibn Arabi argues that the Neo-Platonic concept of the “Unity of Being” – the belief that all existence is effectively a single, unified entity – is key to understanding the nature of the spiritual path. In this regard, he goes beyond Neo-Platonic thought and strengthens its core concepts, such as God’s essential unity and the living, personal nature of Being. Similarly, in the Meccan Revelations, Ibn Arabi affirms the Neopythagorean belief in the unity of souls, but argues that a plurality of individual souls is the product of a complex and subtle mystical process.

Ibn Arabi was also influenced by the Neo-Platonic idea of the demiurge, or mediator between the material and the spiritual. For example, Ibn Arabi believed that humanity could become active participants in the cosmic process of self-realization, and argued that the spiritual “guide” was essential to this path. In this way, he was able to incorporate Neo-Platonic ideas of divine mediation into his own spiritual philosophy.

Finally, Ibn Arabi took Neo-Platonism beyond mere philosophical speculation and incorporated its concepts into Islamic theology. He argued that the Islamic tradition contains the truth of both Platonic and Neo-Platonic concepts, and sought to demonstrate how these truths manifest within Islamic theology. In this way, he was able to bridge the gap between these two philosophical traditions, as well as to establish an integrated worldview based on both.

Ibn Arabi’s writings are deeply influenced by Neo-Platonic concepts. Through his works, he was able to synthesize Neo-Platonism with the Islamic tradition and create an expansive vision of the universe that was rooted in the principle of the Unity of Being. While the Neo-Platonic ideas expounded by Ibn Arabi were complex, they ultimately helped to express the essence of his spiritual philosophy.

The Islamic mystic, Muhyddin Ibn Arabi, was a hugely influential thinker and writer who attempted to bridge the spiritual chasm between East and West. Borrowing ideas from both Hinduism and Islam, he created an innovative and controversial synthesis of the two traditions. One of the most influential of these ideas he inherited from Hinduism was the concept of Bhakti (devotional love). Let’s explore how this concept impacted Ibn Arabi’s thought and how it continued to influence Sufi traditions up to the present day.

What is Bhakti?

Bhakti is a Hindu term that refers to a devotional practice of love and sacrifice for a divine entity. It is closely related to the concept of puja, a ritualistic practice of worship intended to evoke a spiritual connection between an individual and the Divine. Bhakti can also be seen as a way of attaining spiritual liberation through the selfless act of devotion. The Bhakti movement itself was a product of the 11th century in which the idea of loving god spread across India, influencing literature and popular culture.

Ibn Arabi’s Influences

Ibn Arabi was deeply influenced by the Bhakti tradition. He saw it as a way to reconcile his Islamic faith with the spiritual practices he inherited from Hindu tradition. His writing was full of references to Bhakti, most notably in his ‘Futuhat al-makkiyya’ (Meccan Openings). Here, Ibn Arabi writes about love as being ‘the greatest of worships’, a sentiment deeply rooted in the Bhakti tradition. Ibn Arabi’s ideas on divine love, proximity and transcendence were largely shaped by his understanding of Bhakti.

Bhakti’s Influence on Sufism

Ibn Arabi’s understanding of Bhakti had a profound influence on the development of Sufism. During the 13th century, Sufi communities began to adopt Bhakti ideas of love and devotion from Ibn Arabi. This was reflected in popular Sufi interpretation of the Quran, which focused heavily on the theme of one’s relationship with god. This idea of a close relationship with the Divine was further developed by later Sufi thinkers such as Rumi and Shabistari.

Conclusion

This search has explored the influence of Hindu Bhakti on the mystic philosopher Muhyddin Ibn Arabi’s thought and how this has carried forward to shape the traditions of Sufism up to the present day. Ibn Arabi’s incorporation of Bhakti ideas into his philosophy provided a bridge between the two distinct traditions of Hinduism and Islam, helping to unite the spiritual practices of both. His understanding of the importance of love, proximity and transcendence inspired later Sufi thinkers and continues to shape Islam today.

Here’s some quotes by Ibn Arabi :

1. “We must accept the presence of God in everyone.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

2. “God created Adam out of Love, not out of need.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi 

3. “If you do not know your essence, then you do not know your Lord.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

4. “If you love truth, be a lover; and if you love Wisdom, be a seeker.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

5. “The God you do not know is preferable to you than the god you believe in comfortingly.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

6. “Whoever comes to know himself, knows his Lord.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

7. “He who knows himself, knows his Lord.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

8. “The entire universe is a divine Face; every thing in it is a sign.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

9. “He who has knowledge of himself knows all things.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

10. “Prayer is the most precious pearl of wisdom, and silence is its true form.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

11. “The worship of one God brings with it a knowledge of all created beings.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

12. “Rejoice in the knowledge of your own Self.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi 

13. “The more we discover within ourselves, the more we discover God.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

14. “In truth, God inspires in you the knowledge and wisdom that He has for you.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

15. “God’s mercy is so great that it forgives you not for a single moment, but for eternity.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

16. “The source of spirituality is the heart of man, not a book or a teacher.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

17. “Do not seek to understand in order to believe, but believe in order to understand.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

18. “No one knows the secrets of God’s relationship with man except God himself.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

19. “Love is the cause of existence and its end.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi

20. “The human being is my witness that I am God and that God is me.” ― Ibn ‘Arabi


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The Divine Love of Shiva Shakti

On sacred realms where mountains stand tall,
Shiva and Shakti, a cosmic enthrall.
He, the ascetic adorned in ash’s embrace,
She, the divine force, the Shakti of grace.

In the dance of creation, their cosmic ballet,
Shiva’s stillness, Shakti’s vibrant array.
Mount Kailash witnessed their divine duet,
A cosmic rhythm, where energies met.

Her ardor fueled the fiery third eye’s glow,
As he adorned the crescent moon’s soft throw.
In the dance of life’s cycles, they entwine,
Shiva and Shakti, a union divine.

Through cosmic energies, their love unfolds,
A tale of creation, as ancient scriptures hold.
In the cosmic dance, they forever unite,
Shiva and Shakti, eternal cosmic light.

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Lord Shiva instructs his Sadhu Disciples

In the mist-clad peaks of Mount Kailash, the abode of divinity where silence speaks volumes, there sat Lord Shiva, the ascetic god of destruction and regeneration. His presence was as serene as the moonlit Himalayas, yet as intense as the fire that burns within the core of the earth. Surrounding him were his devoted sadhus, seekers of the ultimate truth, each one an embodiment of renunciation.

These ascetics, with ash smeared across their foreheads and bodies, signifying their continual death to the world of form, had gathered to absorb not the words, but the wisdom that emanated from the very being of Shiva. They were an assorted congregation; some young with fiery eyes fueled by the vigor of spiritual quests, others, old, with eyes deep as the cosmic sky, reflecting eons of contemplation.

Shiva, the great Yogi, sat in tranquil stillness, his eyes half-closed in a state between the manifest world and the unmanifest void. His trishula, the trident, stood beside him, symbolizing control over the physical, mental, and spiritual worlds. The crescent moon adorned his matted locks, and the mighty Ganga flowed from his hair, cascading down into the realms of man, a testament to his power to harness and release the torrents of cosmic energy.

As the sun began its descent, casting a golden cloak over the snow, Shiva opened his eyes, and in them, the universe seemed to dance. He spoke not through words but through the very essence of silence. His teachings were not of the scriptures but of existence. He taught the sadhus about the impermanence of the physical universe and the permanence of the self. He revealed to them the dance of creation and destruction, inherent in the flow of time, where every end was a prelude to a beginning.

He spoke of the beauty of detachment, how like the lotus, one must live in the world yet not be of it. His every gesture was a teaching, every pause a lesson in patience, every glance an initiation into the depths of consciousness.

As dusk turned to night, and the stars began to mirror the sparks of their meditative fires, the sadhus sat in profound meditation, absorbing the vibrations of Shiva’s presence. They realized that the ultimate teaching was not something to be grasped, but something to be lived. It was in the very act of living in harmony with the cosmos, in recognizing the oneness of all existence.

In the great silence of the Himalayas, under the watchful gaze of their eternal teacher, the sadhus found their truths. And Shiva, the Adiyogi, continued to sit in repose, his stillness an eternal testament to the wisdom beyond worlds. The cycle of night and day passed, seasons changed, but the quest of the sadhus remained — a quest quenched only by the profound waters of self-realization, a thirst for which they had forsaken all worldly desires.

And thus, the story of Lord Shiva and his disciples continues, in the hearts of those who seek, in the silence of the sages, and in the very air of Mount Kailash, where every breath whispers tales of liberation.

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The Eternal Love of Shiva & Parvati

In the realm where mystic rivers flow, In the embrace of ethereal glow, Two divine beings, a cosmic pair, Shiva and Parvati, a love beyond compare.

Shiva, the ascetic, with matted hair, A meditative soul in tranquil stare, Cloaked in ashes, the blue-skinned lord, In his presence, the universe is adored.

Parvati, radiant goddess of grace, With eyes that illuminate every space, Her beauty blossoms like flowers in bloom, Enchanting hearts with her celestial perfume.

In Mount Kailash, their celestial abode, Where serpents dance and mountains erode, Shiva meditates, detached and still, While Parvati’s love, his heart does fill.

Through eons of time, their love has endured, In cosmic dance, their union assured, Opposites they are, yet perfectly entwined, The eternal lovers, their souls aligned.

In the dance of creation, they unite, Their love a beacon, shining bright, From destruction to creation, they move as one, In the cosmic play, their love is spun.

In Ardhanarishvara, they merge as a whole, The divine balance, the cosmic goal, Male and female, fused in divine bliss, Their union a symbol of eternal oneness.

With Nandi, the bull, at Shiva’s feet, And Kartikeya, their son, so sweet, Ganesha, the elephant-headed one, Their celestial family, all love has won.

In their love, the universe finds solace, A divine romance, never to be erased, Shiva and Parvati, the cosmic flame, Igniting hearts, in love’s sacred name.

Through endless cycles, their story will flow, An eternal saga, forever aglow, Shiva and Parvati, divine and true, In their eternal love, we find our cue.

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