Shalom,
Thank you for your reply.
I divided the mantras into categories as I wrote. The divisions were mine; so I'm sure someone of greater learning could add to this substantially.
I, personally, would agree with you that what I call tonal and intellectual mantras are directed to bring 'only' a 'brief physical' peace. However I think you might find some of those who regularly practice these methodologies quite willing to dispute this. But, peace, no matter how brief, is honey to the spirit. Tell me, do you utilize any type of 'mantra' in your practice?
Kundulini Yoga, practiced like the Sikhs do, is a powerful tool. If one is really physically-emotionally-spiritually whacked out this methodology can bring you back to a reality of greater beauty; from where the spiritual peace to which you elude is much easier to strive for. I speak from personal experience here. I'm not pushing this; just relating what it did for me. I am deeply grateful that this practice entered my life when it did.
Vipassana, which is said to have been taught by the Buddha himself, is quite different. From my experience it is a very internal, and 'soul' related exercise. Sidhartha, himself, is said to have gone through the stages of meditation to arrive at Vipassana. It was Vipassana that he is said to have been practicing as he sat beneath the Bhodi Tree.
Spiritual practice is an individual experience. And I assume the perfection of this is what you are alluding to...the bringing of inner peace. Organized religions are really quite appropriate for many people. Others are more eclectic in their development. I have never been able to place particular faith in one organization over any other.
I'm always drawn back to the conclusion that it is not what an individual might practice; but how it is reflected in his soul and his actions. That is, in part, why my discussions of mantras has been quite limited concerning each technique's bearing on spiritual practice and awakening.
I do not want, in anyway, to define to anyone a spiritual direction. My discussion is aimed at vehicles to move down whatever road one may choose. Or, if we view our bodies as our vehicle, tools to fine tune the instrument.
I apologize for not reading your posts more closely. I would have known a bit more of your purpose if I had. At the same time I was intrigued by your concept and wanted a chance at dialogue with you.
Perhaps you could relate to us some methodologies you have found effective in your spiritual practice. I realize it may be difficult to separate practice from concept; but I believe the truth and methods to attain it are constant; no matter what the 'language' we speak.
With regard to my reference to Egypt. The posts which I read most thoroughly related to the plagues that were visited on the Pharo at that particular time. Seven years of plenty followed by years of want and despair. Given the market in the recent days, it had a prophetic tone to it. I can not resist wondering if holding gold then would have been anymore helpful than it is now?
I will visit the discussion threads which you have referanced.
Ohh are you typing these posts out, or posting from a text file?
kind regards,
mnmuench |
