Monday, November 16, 2020

Mandalam Musings Day 1 - You are that – Tat Tvam Asi

 



Mandalam Musings Day 1:
You are that – Tat Tvam Asi

“You are that”! That is the message – an evasive message to most of us, nonetheless.
As we approach the sanctum sanctorum (Sannidhanam) of the famous Sabarimala temple, we cannot miss the big bold letters fixed in front of the temple; Tat Tvam Asi - You are That!
It is a reminder for each one of us of great potential and a great responsibility. By stating such a lofty goal, each one of us is expected to rise to the level of the Lord Ayyappa Himself! How audacious! How can an ordinary human being like me, claim to become one like the Lord himself? Nay claim that I am indeed the Lord! Is it possible, or is it just a blind belief and a sort of black magic? Is it a goal that can ever be attained by me?
What is ‘that’? Why is it important to know ‘you’ are indeed ‘that’? What is the benefit of knowing this?
You find answers to all these questions and more in the philosophy and legends of Lord Ayyappa, regarded as the savior by his devotes world over. During this Mandalam season of 41 days, let us try to ponder the Ayyappa culture we come to enjoy year after year. I would like to post a short write-up every day to see if we can appreciate the importance of rituals and the Ayyappa philosophy as a way of life prescribed by our forefathers. It is said that the time period of one Mandalam (41 Days) is enough to make ever-lasting changes to one’s life.

5 comments:

  1. A fantastic beginning of the musings. Tat Tvam Asi is the essence of Sanathana Dharma. HarHaran , the name itself denotes the oneness of the paramathma. All the best Sukumar for success in your efforts. Of course there is nothing to doubt about the success of anything comes from Sukumarcanada.

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  2. Marvelous attempt to share your knowledge with others through Mandalam Musings.
    Wonderful write "You are that" beautiful describes the venue where its written. Superb informative write it will be. All the best Mr Sukumar for the share and more so in English. Tq.

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  3. Start of the day(1) with awareness about തത്വമസി inspires one to acquire and reach the apex of his mind by day(41).This continuum will bringvenergy and enthusiasm for whole life period. Nice concept👍👍

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