Vanamali Libros

Exploring the concept of Shakti, this work delves into the Divine Mother as a source of love, security, and transformation in the universe. It presents over 30 incarnations of goddesses, highlighting both their nurturing and destructive aspects. The author utilizes key texts like the Devi Bhagavatham and Devi Mahatmyam to illustrate the power of the Divine Mother in guiding individuals from ignorance to enlightenment. Mataji Devi Vanamali, an established author and founder of a spiritual ashram, brings her extensive knowledge of Hinduism to this enlightening narrative.

"Drawing from the Bhagavad Purana, the Bhagavad Gita, the Mahabharata, and India’s sacred oral tradition, Vanamali shares stories from Krishna’s birth in a dungeon and early days as a merry trickster in Vrindavana, through his time as divine ruler at Dwaraka, to his final powerful acts as the hero Arjuna’s charioteer and guru in the Kurukshetra war. She explains how Krishna became a mahayogi, the greatest of all yogis, and attained complete mastery over himself and nature. By integrating the hero-child with the mahayogi, the playful lover with the divine ruler, Vanamali shows how the stories of Krishna’s life are expressed with such simplicity and humor that they enable anyone--man, woman, or child--to see the wisdom of his teachings."--p. [4] of cover

"The traditional understanding of Shiva told through stories and teachings from the Shiva Mahapurana Explains Shiva's contradictory forms, such as destroyer or benefactor, and how his form depends on the needs of the devotee Reveals how Shiva's teachings allow one to see through the illusions at the root of all grief and alienation in human life Explores Shiva's relationships with Durga, Shakti, Sati, and Parvati and with his sons Ganesha and Kartikeya Shiva, the most ancient and complex deity of the Hindu pantheon, has been portrayed in many contrasting lights: destroyer and benefactor, ascetic and householder, wild demon slayer and calm yogi atop Mount Kailash. Drawing from the Hindu sacred text the Shiva Mahapurana--said to be written by Shiva himself--Vanamali selects the essential stories of Shiva, both those from his dark wild side and those from his benevolent peaceful side. Vanamali discusses Shiva's many avatars such as Shambunatha and Bhola, as well as Dakshinamurti who taught the shastras and tantras to the rishis. She explores Shiva's relationships with Durga, Shakti, Sati, and Parvati and with his sons Ganesha and Kartikeya. Examining Shiva's acceptance of outsiders, Vanamali explains why ghosts and ghouls are his attendants and why his greatest devotees are demon kings, like Ravana. She includes famous Shiva stories such as the Descent of the Ganges and the Churning of the Ocean as well as those that reveal the origin of the festival of lights, Diwali; his creation of the cosmic couple, or hierogamos; and how Shiva and Parvati taught the world the secrets of Kundalini Shakti. The author also draws upon Shaivite teachings to illustrate the differences between Western science and Vedic science and their explanations for the origins of consciousness. Integrating Shiva's two sides, the fierce and the peaceful, Vanamali reveals that Shiva's form depends on the needs of the devotee. Understanding his teachings allows one to see through the illusions at the root of all grief and alienation in human life, for Shiva is the wielder of Maya who does not fall under its spell. While Ganesha is known as the remover of obstacles, Shiva is the remover of tears"-- Provided by publisher

Retells the Ramayana, the ancient Indian tale of love, duty, and sacrifice, for a modern audience.

This comprehensive guide delves into Sanatana Dharma, exploring the spiritual science established by ancient Hindu sages. It covers fundamental principles, practices, and philosophies, providing insights into the rich spiritual heritage of Hinduism. Readers will discover the significance of rituals, meditation, and ethical living, as well as the interconnectedness of all life. The book serves as both an introduction for newcomers and a resource for those seeking to deepen their understanding of this timeless spiritual tradition.