Dazla has created a temple in our backyard. It is something that anyone can do & dedicate it to their God. Our temple is to the first Yogi - Shiva. There are many definitions of Shiva & one is free to make up one's own definition - what it means to you personally is the most important part, it is the most relevant thing - not someone else's definition, although this can guide you. To me, Shiva means God, divine power, goodness, kindness, compassion. Shiva & the symbols he represents remind me to be kind to myself & others, always.
Dazla has great knowledge & experience of temples & has pilgrimaged to ten of the 12 Mahashiva temples throughout India. I can say that this type of experience is in his blood, his bones, his past lives as a sadhu.
Our beautiful Daddy Dazla started early in the morning with his usual gusto vata nature. He sought a place in the garden to place the Shiva Lingham. Ideally it faces east & prayers & symbols are placed underneath.
Daz built the formwork, mixed the concrete & shaped this sweet little temple. He placed the Lingham in the wet concrete to create a mould - took it out & washed it - & formed the Yoni with his hands. The Lingham was one he bought back from India from the bottom of the Narmada River. The Narmada River is considered the mother and giver of peace.
The next day the sacred space was ready to consecrate. We did a puja. We placed coloured powder over the temple, sandalwood paste, honey, sacred water & milk. We then offered flowers - hundreds of little white petals. Then we performed a havan; a fire ceremony. We chanted the Mahamritunjaya Mantra 108 times to invoke health, well-being & Love into our hearts & home.
Havans create a harmonious atmosphere, they purify the environment & create a very special feeling around the home by uplifting the vibration. They can be easily performed at your own home by you - you do not need to be a Brahmin or initiated into any lineage. For a guide - & coming soon, a havan kit - go to Satyananda's shop.
Every morning, incense is offered, a bell is rung & prayers invoke & reaffirm our Love for God, ourselves, our family & friends & the greater world.
A few days later Dazla painted the Shiva Lingham. We now feel at home in our new place.
