On Apr 17, 2005, at 9:26 AM, Patrick Gillam wrote:

> These ramblings lead to a question or two. Are these
> superstitions valid? Is there a difference between
> statues of deities that have been formally charged
> with prana-shakti and those purchased at Pier 1?

There definitely is a difference. "Think" of a mantra without life. It 
might seem bizarre that something as ephemeral as a word or a thought 
could be "charged", but think of how alive your TM mantra is/was: it's 
a lot different from a mantra you read or overhear.

While I do think it is an exaggeration to say that statuary collected 
as decorations would do harm, it certainly is a negative action (and 
thus ultimately could lead to a chain of negative results). Originally 
these type of objects were secret objects which were actively used in 
worship. Something like an murti IMO should only be purchased if you 
have a form of devotional worship which could utilize such a 
meditational support. The disrespect of the external object will 
eventually be part of the inner aspect should you decide to do worship 
of that kind. Therefore it can cause inner obstacles in transcendental 
worship, no?

There are certain objects, which once "charged" are beneficial to have 
around. These would be talismanic objects such as yantras. They 
liberate through being seen. The geometry of God/dess expressed in pure 
mathematical form. But again these are "secret" objects and are meant 
for someone specific and not mere decoration.

Part of the kali-yuga has been a rise in materialistic aspects of 
spirituality. I've seen people who made their homes look like Hindu or 
Buddhist temples, people who collect "tantric art", people who 
associate a minimalist aesthetic with Zen practice, etc. all these 
practices lead away from the original intent.



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