Sombre Kali

by Rabraj Saimy · Santa Monica, US

Meditation is often practiced with eyes closed. But it can also be done with eyes half-open and focused within, by following a well guarded technique of yogi-s and tantric-s, called Shambhavi mudra. Literally, the word ‘mudra’, means, seal, sign, badge, symbolic gestures or parched grain, in different contexts. However in esoteric practices, it has a specific meaning and relevance, associated with worship, dancing, postures or mindful attention. Shambhavi mudra is a divine method of gazing inward to remove mental distractions, of sojourning into the depths of one’s being with internalized attention, and of opening oneself to nature’s higher forces. This mudra is named after Shambhavi or Parvati (sometime identified as Durga), the consort of Lord Shiva. Shambhavi symbolizing Shakti, the divine energy, propels existence. Her manifestation in the human being is best realized through this mudra, which rests on the praxis of identity between the macrocosm and microcosm. This is the sombre portrayal of the most fierce and destructive goddess of Hinduism, Kali. There is an inward glance of Kali, which shows that she is practicing the Shambhavi Mudra of advance Yogis.