Dear Spiritual Explorer:  Can you tell me the best way to remember to keep peace in my heart during the day as I always forget? Georgia P., Paris, FRANCE

Three OM Ring

Dear Georgia: I have to congratulate you on even having that desire in your heart because it is a noble desire to have, although perhaps I am assuming this is your most singular desire next to perhaps owning a Lexus.  However, that is not really my business and I will of course answer your question by suggesting the Om Ring with 3 Oms at Ma’s India. Aside from the fact that this is quite an attractive piece of jewelry in sterling silver, during the day it is sure to catch not only your eye but other’s. When that happens you can always be reminded to fulfill your desire to keep peace in your heart.

My guru says that if one wishes to bring discipline into one’s life and true happiness, this cannot be achieved without discipline; she recommends regularly meditating every day to build that discipline.   I think that one can combine meditation and discipline by looking at one’s Om ring as often as one can during the day. While I have not thought of this as a conscious thing, I know that gazing at my “ring of commitment” during the day is something I do often without even thinking of it. So now when you look at your Om jewelry, know that it is a promise to remember peace in your heart.

I love the fact that this Om ring has three Oms upon it and that it wraps around your finger so as to remind you to wrap Om around your life. The sound of Om is a primordial sound in the universe and is one that is recited daily or even minute by minute by observant practitioners.  Om is the sound that reminds us that we are can resonate with the universal sounding of peace wherever we go.  We need not be in a particular place or house of worship to remember this sound.  Om is available to us at all times and all places to inconspicuously sound within us.  During times of stress at your workplace you can start sounding the Om sound without anybody being aware. Just gaze down at your ring and begin your chant.  Good luck to you, Spiritual Explorer

Dear Spiritual Explorer: I have lately become interested in Kuan Yin, especially in the fact that she originated as a male deity. Marilyn F., Miami, FL

Dear Marilyn: Kuan Yin, as it is spelled today, is the Chinese female goddess version of the male god Avalokiteshvara who originated in India or Tibet where he remains the most popular deity as a male god. It is fascinating that nowhere in India nor Tibet has he ever been deified as a female figure. In China where he is now known as a female goddess Kuan Yin, he actually started out as a male figure. In fact, by the 9th century, her popularity had prevailed over that of Avalokiteshvara. Additionally, some people believe that KuanYin is androgynous (or perhaps neither). In this modern period, Kuan Yin is most often depicted as a beautiful, white robed woman as one can see in the Kuan Yin Deity Pendant in Ma’s India

Kuan Yin Pendant

Even perhaps more confusing as to whether Kuan Yin is male or female are sutras (teachings) which describes Avalokiteshvara as a bodhisattva who can take the form of any type of male or female, adult or child, human or non-human in order to teach the dharma. However, within the Buddhist teachings, it does not matter whether Kuan Yin is male, female, or genderless, as the ultimate reality is in emptiness. Do we not find that to be the ultimate truth? What was also appealing is Kuan Yin or Avalokiteshvara have the supernatural power of assuming any form required to relieve suffering.

So how did this bodhisattva morph into a female representation?  From my readings,it appears to have been an evolutionary matter. It apparently was felt that since this god was considered the personification of compassion and kindness, patron of mothers and seamen and caretaker of children and animals, it must be a female goddess. In fact her name is short for Guanshiyin which means “observing the Sounds or Cries of the World.” Who does that better than a female/mother/goddess?

Thanks for writing, Spiritual Explorer

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Dear Spiritual Explorer: Some of my female friends and I are planning to do a sacred ceremony under the stars some night. Could you recommend an appropriate incense? Laura R., Sarasota, FL

Dear Laura: Ma’s India has just received a whole new brand of incense called Rare Essence Collection, an exclusive series of incenses produced to exacting quality standards using only the finest aromatic materials, including natural woods and resins as well as precious essential oils and perfumes. From that collection, I have chosen for you Moon Goddess Incense. Because of the strong fragrance in each of these incenses, I think Moon Goddess Incense will be great for those nights under the stars. You won’t have to worry about the scent of  incense being diluted by the wind.

Moon Goddess Incense

In mythology, a lunar deity is a god or goddess associated with the moon. They are basically very distinct from the solar deities. Lunar deities can be either male or female. Female deities are better known in modern times due to the influence of classical Greek and Roman mythology which held the moon to be female. There is no mystery as to why the moon is considered female in that it corresponds to the female menstrual cycles in its monthly appearance. Many of the most well known mythologies feature lunar deities such as the Greek goddesses Phoebe, Artemis, Selene and Hecate. Interestingly, in all celebrations invoking these goddesses, incense is always present because of its spiritual resonance.

I do know that when women come together to celebrate their femininity and mystery, a night time ceremony under the full moon can be very powerful, bringing forth the mystical and mysterious aspect of the female. Incense always augments this feeling. Oftentimes, women will celebrate the first night of the full moon because it is felt that the moon is at its most powerful and the women can receive its benefits.  Invoking any feminine goddess such as Kuan Yin, a bodhisattva goddess, Saraswati, goddess of beauty and the arts, and Durga, goddess of protection or any other of the myriad goddesses, can only enhance what will become a night of exploration, affirmation of the feminine and adventure. I know that Moon Goddess Incense will add a singular quality to that night.

I wish I were there to share in the festivities. Enjoy your night. Spiritual Explorer

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Dear Spiritual Explorer: I am moving into a new home and wish to consecrate it with a plaque of a Hindu deity. There are so many wonderful Hindu deities to choose from and I am quite flummoxed as to the choice. Is there a deity most universal? Mary Beth L., Detroit, MI

Ganesh Brass Plaque

Dear Mary Beth. I am going to recommend for you the Ganesh Brass Plaque which will be a handsome addition to your home, either indoors or outdoors. Appropriately it should be placed as almost the first wall art you see as you enter your home. The reason for this is that Ganesh is invoked at any new enterprise, so it would be quite appropriate for your new home. I know some people who invoke Om Namah Ganesh as they start their cars three times so that their going forth will be blessed.

Ganesh has many faces. This particular Ganesh plaque however seems to be quiet formidable and scholarly, and in truth he is known as patron of letters when one is creating any kind of writing. Ganesh, referred to as either Ganesh, Ganesha or Ganapati, is the personified power of unity that removes obstacles and assigns order to various spiritual powers and abilities.

Ganesh is a popular figure in Indian art. Unlike those of some deities, representations of Ganesh show wide variations and distinct patterns changing over time. He may be portrayed standing, dancing, heroically taking action against demons, playing with his family as a boy, sitting down or on an elevated seat, or engaging in a range of contemporary situations.

Ganesh has the head of an elephant and a big belly. This wall art shows Ganesh with four arms, which is common in depictions of Ganesh. He holds his own broken tusk in his lower-right hand and holds a delicacy, which he samples with his trunk, in his lower-left hand. Ganesh is also known to have quite an appetite for goodies which is represented in all of the mythological recountings of Ganesh. While Ganesh cuts quite an amusing figure, do not think he is diminished by his appetites. They feed his greatness for he is a complex and wondrous creature.

Congratulations on your new home. You will have made a wonderful choice when choosing our Ganesh wall plaque. It’s like Ganesh, handsome and formidable!

Om Sri Ganesh, Ki Jai!

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Dear Spiritual Explorer: I would like to start a mantra practice. Could you recommend a mantra for me? Les W., Portland, OR

Om Namah Shivaya Ring

Dear Les: It is quite a responsibility to choose a mantra for someone, and usually it is a guru or respected and beloved spiritual teacher that imparts a mantra to their disciples or students. So I am quite flattered that you have thought well enough of me to ask for this mantra. There are so many reasons one chooses a particular mantra. It could be for purposes of healing, choosing a mate, asking for deeper devotion, destruction of negativity, etc. While we have many books in Ma’s India regarding mantras, I thought I would dare to allow using my intuition to guide me. Interestingly, as I walked into the store, my eyes rested upon the glass case that enclosed the Om Namah Shivaya Ring. Therefore, Les, if you choose to accept my choice, your mantra is Om Namah Shivaya.

Mantras can be taken on and off like clothes if you feel that it does not resonate with you. Since I am not your spiritual teacher, this was the most benign and wonderful one that I would recommend. Please allow me to tell you something of the Om Namah Shivaya mantra. First, it utilizes the name of Shiva, that Hindu deity who sits atop Mt Kailash in eternal meditation. I have written many previous articles as to how various female deities of equal stature have strived to win his attention. It was no easy task to win Shiva’s glance. One such divine goddess Uma fasted for 10, 00 years on nuts and berries. Another goddess named Parvati did all manners of austerities to win this guy’s attention. It is reassuring somehow to know that Shiva is not easily diverted from his main task of creation and destruction of illusion. Om Namah Shivaya is known to be one of the easiest and most popular of mantras. It kind of covers all bases.

The Om Namah Shivaya mantra uses the universal elements that govern each chakra: earth, water, fire, air and ether. The syllables Na, Ma, Shi, VA and Ya help the chakras to better utilize the fundamental elements that predominate within the chakra. It is said that the chanting of Om Namah Shivaya mantra will lead you powerfully towards spiritual accomplishment and resonance to your true self. This is no small claim.
It is recommended that when one begins to use a mantra that you devote chanting the mantra to at least 108 times twice a day for 40 days. At the end of that time you will notice if some change has favorably occurred for you. If it has, you may wish to continue the mantra for the rest of your life or you may choose another mantra to suit your purpose. In fact, you can have a couple going if you desire. I think however at the beginning, it is best to use one mantra so that you may distinguish its predominant quality.

Thanks for letting me notice this ring however. It is startling in its silver brilliance and quite a masculine accessory. If you wear the Om Namah Shivaya ring, you will not forget to say your mantra.

Thanks for writing, Spiritual Explorer

Dear Spiritual Explorer: It seems everybody is getting a tattoo these days. Can you recommend a safe, but temporary tattoo for me? Belle T., Ocala, FL

Jagua Henna Tattoo

Dear Belle: I recommend the Earth Henna Jagua Black Tattoo Kit which contains no harsh chemicals and lasts no longer than 10 to 15 days. It is definitely a “fun” tattoo to get without having regrets afterwards. The dye is from the jagua fruit and is considered relatively safe aside from allergic reactions that might occur as with any dye product.

You are quite right about it appearing that everybody is getting tattooed these days. In fact, there is quite an upsurge in the tattoo art during the past years. As a woman, I know that getting my hair cut used to reflect my desire for a change in my life. Now it seems that getting a tattoo offers the same fulfillment.

The type of tattoos these days has certainly proliferated. I can remember when we thought that only sailors or members of the armed forces were those who got tattooed. When I was in high school in the 60’s, I particularly remember this young man who sat in the back of my history class, with greased, slicked back hair , one of his arms sporting a tattoo of some young woman. I think we all felt that he was some teenaged delinquent who was scary to us. Now in retrospect he was probably just some kid trying to get his high school diploma. But for us, his tattoo said he was not only dangerous in some way but proof he was out of bounds. Now it appears that tattoos actually invite people to a come closer to gaze at their tattoos, hopefully in an admiring way. No longer a signal to stay away, tattoos have become an invitation to come closer. Interesting, huh?

Who gets tattoos? It appears that people who get tattooed come from all different backgrounds with all different distinctions in their tattoos. Some want just a small discreet tattoo perhaps artfully placed away from prying or curious eyes. Others want their tattoos to express a happening or meaningful event in their lives. A great number of women seem to find the small of their backs, wrists or ankles as the places in which to place their tattoos.

What used to be a rebellious act has now become mainstream. Some tattoo artists have told me that mothers and daughters visit tattoo parlors to get their first tattoos together. Getting tattoos has also become a social happening where groups of friends celebrate a birthday or other significant events by choosing a tattoo to commemorate the event.
I think you’re smart at his point to get a temporary tattoo. A permanent tattoo is definitely a commitment that takes some time to choose. Enjoy this kit; it will be fun for you! Spiritual Explorer.

Dear Spiritual Explorer: Are bone malas really made of bone? Sylvia R., Jacksonville, FL

Bone Inlay Mala

Hi Sylvia: I have often admired the beauty and starkness of bone malas, but have never asked that question myself. Gazing at the White Bone Inlay Mala we have in the store, which has 108 beads and tassel, I began to research this question.

What I have found is that typically the bone from your average bone mala comes from yak, ox and water buffalo, and this singularly applies to malas coming from Nepal, where incidentally our White Bone Inlay Mala originates. In the case of the yak, it is the bone left over from the killing of the yak for food. Since the villagers do not believe in being wasteful, they use every part of the animal that they can. What I also have understood from my research on bone malas is that no animal is killed just for commercial purposes. Harvesting their bones comes as a natural order of the animal’s demise.

I have heard and have seen bone malas that purportedly derive from the human skull. Some of the bone from these malas is supplied by monks that live in the Himalayas. When these monks die, their bones are salvaged to be used for malas. However, there are a few monasteries that save the monk’s skulls to cut little discs from them to make malas. These are known as “skull malas,” intricately carved in the shape of skulls. In Tibet and parts of India there are places called “charnel grounds” where the dead are disposed of and their bones are used to make malas. In other cases, some might donate their remains to a particular temple so that the temple might earn money for a certain project benefiting the temple.

Some teachers of meditation have recommended that one not use a bone mala unless one has an empowerment suited to doing a “wrathful” practice. These wrathful practices are suited to a particularly wrathful-seeming deity who wears bone malas themselves on their persons. I particularly refer to Kali who is adorned with the skulls of “egos” These wrathful deities remind us of our mortality and the shortness of life. However, a “wrathful practice” is not when one engages in anger to perpetuate an egoic desire. In actuality, a practice of “wrath” gives one the power to remove obstacles and ego, thus ultimately engendering compassion and love.

Personally, I have used both a bone and wooden mala in my spiritual practice. I have to admit that using a bone mala seems to lend a particularly quality of mystery and seriousness to my meditation. Nevertheless, as with the saying, all roads lead to Rome, similarly, it is my feeling that all practice with malas eventually lead to the feeling of unity with the Divine. Thank you for writing, Spiritual Explorer

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Dear Spiritual Explorer: I am looking for a wall hanging for my baby’s room that is of a spiritual nature. Can you suggest one? Laura L., Manhasset, VA

Dear Laura: The Hanuman Batik Wall Hanging in Ma’s India is very special. As Hanuman ambles along while holding the earth in one hand and a mighty discus to ward off evil in the other hand, he yet appears playful and jovial. In fact, Hanuman appears totally childlike in this wall hanging with his good natured innocence and confidence. If I had a baby, I would love my child to look upon this cheery countenance.

Hanuman Batik

As your child gets older and perhaps the crib disappears, the Hanuman hanging is still relevant, but this time you can amuse your child with abundant stories of Hanuman’s exploits and mischievousness as a child. In his teenage years having been entertained by stories of Hanuman through his child years, your child is sure to enjoy Hanuman’s further adventures as a teenager and then finally his entrée into his grown up years as humble and inspirational god. Many times parents paint or decorate their children’s rooms with many objects to instill curiosity or to improve their knowledge. But how wonderful is it to continually convey to your child wonderful qualities of bravery, humility, service and kindness to a child such as epitomized with this great God Hanuman.

Hanuman’s birth is celebrated on the full moon of April with the festival of Hanuman Jayante. This can be an important celebration in your child’s life also as you also revere this great God Hanuman.

I love the idea of this wall hanging portraying Hanuman as your child’s companion through his formative years. What a wonderful idea! Thanks for writing. Spiritual Explorer

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Dear Spiritual Explorer: Could you suggest to me a beautiful decal for my room’s window? Beatrice P., Rhine, NY

Sunseal Decal

Today as I was shopping at Ma’s India, I gazed upon the particularly beautiful Sunseal Midnight Lotus Decal with that brilliantly white lotus framed against the backdrop of that rarely captured blue midnight color. It’s a stunner and I am particularly anxious to see how the sun comes through the decal in the early morning sun. I asked myself, how the lotus has had such a spiritual significance. I have found out wonderful information.

I had always known that one of the primary things about lotuses is that they somehow grow out of mud, pure and clean, like morning dew. That this is a phenomenon of beauty arising out of muck and mud has been the reason for the many inspirational quotations about the lotus. Not only Chinese poets have used lotus flowers to inspire people to continue striving through difficulties and to show their best part to the outside world, no matter how bad the circumstances may be. I think this inspiration has always been part and parcel of other religions also and is integrated into the basic teachings of any spiritual person’s attempt to separate themselves from the more mundane and less worthy aspects of our beings.
Someone told me that a symbolic characteristic of the lotus flower is from the observation that the plant’s stalk is easy to bend in two, but very hard to break because of its strong, sinuous fibers. This flower has become a part of marriage rituals in that it represents a close unbreakable relationship between two lovers or members within a family.

In Buddhism the lotus flower symbolizes faithfulness. The golden lotus mentioned in Buddhist sutras has two meanings; one is the symbol for the achievement of enlightenment and the other points towards a real flower which is beyond our normal perception. A good lotus flower painting can act as a reminder of the miracle of beauty, light and life. The sacred lotus is an extremely important spiritual symbol in Eastern religions. It represents purity, divine wisdom, and the individual’s progress from the lowest to the highest state of consciousness.

And lastly, lotuses are perhaps the most spectacular plants in aquatic environments. The Chinese say that once having seen the growing lotus, you never forget it. The lotus flower has colors from red, pink, pale yellow to brilliant white.

“Bathing in the clear water of the spiritual pond, the lotus’ roots dig deep into the soil.”

Thanks for writing, Spiritual Explorer

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Dear Spiritual Explorer: Could you write more about the Hindu God Vishnu? Corky P., Baltimore, MD

Vishnu Statue

Dear Corky: Thank you for asking that question. I have been remiss in not speaking of Vishnu and hope to make it up to you in this article.  I think perhaps I have ignored Vishnu a bit because of his position as Preserver in the Hindu Holy Triad. I must confess Vishnu just never seemed as interesting to me as Shiva, the Destroyer, being an iconoclast myself, or Brahma, the Creator. Perhaps I am not so much at fault since it appears that most people seem most to ask about the gods that emanate from Vishnu’s lineage, Krishna and Rama. Krishna and Rama are quite popular in Hindu mythology and about whom myriad myths and stories abound. I went to look at the Vishnu Statue that Ma’s India carries.

Contrary to my ignorance, it is said in the Bhagavat Purana that the most benefit can be had from worshiping Vishnu.  It is perhaps that Vishnu is the embodiment of goodness, mercy and compassion, three qualities that people are desperately seeking in this Yuga. Along these lines, the Bhagavat Gita also mentions that the purpose of this holy triad is to rejuvenate dharma and vanquish negative forces. I love the idea of rejuvenating dharma; it sounds so nonjudgmental and clever. I am not here to change dharma, restructure dharma or even purify dharma; I am here to rejuvenate it. Wonderful!

The name Vishnu means one who permeates, or one who has entered into everything.  Talk about a mystic’s dream. Vishnu’s consort is Lakshmi, the goddess of beauty and fortune. Vishnu has four arms indicating his omnipresence and omnipotence. In his right hand he holds a discus, symbol of the wheel of time; his lower right hand holds the conch, symbol of the sound of Om. Vishnu holds the bow in his other hand, the symbol of arising of the universe. In his upper left hand, he holds a lotus, the symbol of the loving universe and all things that are good. His lower left hand holds his mace, a symbol of the option of individual existence.

Most importantly for our understanding, it appears that Vishnu helps souls survive the cycle of birth, death and rebirth, a good reason for paying homage to this god.  This particular statue of Vishnu is made from an ivory-like subtle material that contains microscopic glass beads for shine.  The Vishnu statue is very comely and inviting and will make a wonderful addition to your puja. Om Sri Vishnu Ki Jai!

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