“Progressing with Sri Vidya Sadhana”
Explanation by Swami Ritavan Bharati
Verse 3 from Saundarya-Lahari
Following the Bala mantra practice and special meditation given two years ago, in 2017 we continued the Bala mantra practice along with contemplating verse #27 from Saundarya-Lahari
At this time, Swamiji is providing verse #3 from Saundarya-Lahari as the next verse of contemplation for initiates in progressing with Shri Vidya sadhana. Since it is part of the ashram evening prayers, many are already acquainted with it.
Memorize verse #3, then, recite the Sankalpa, recite verse #3 out loud, and repeat it mentally 3 times.
Then each day, recite verse #3 out loud and repeat it mentally 3 times, contemplating its meaning throughout the day. And, at the Sangha gathering in February of 2019, the community mantra for the next three years will be given in a group initiation.
Recording of Verse #3 from Saundarya-Lahari
Sankalpa:
Asya Saundarya Lahari mantrasya
GovindaPada – Rishi
Tri-pura-Sundari – Devata
Anushtoop – Chandah
GuruPrita – Artham
Moksha Sadhane Viniyoga
Verse #3
Avidyaanaam antas-timiri-mihirod-diipana-karii
Jadaanaam chaitanya-stabaka-makaranda-sruti sritihi
Daridraanam cintaa-mani-gunanikaa janma-jaladhau
Nimagnaanaam damshtraa mura-ripu-varaahasya bhavati.
Thou art the sun that dispels the darkness of the ignorant,
to the unknowing Thou art a spiritual flower overflowing with honey,
to the needy Thou art the gem which bestows one‘s heart‘s desires,
and to those who are drowned in the ocean of births and deaths,
Thou art the Rescuer. (translation by Swami Rama)
