WHAT IS ''BINDU'' ?IS IT THE PINNACLE OF THE THREE STREAMS(Yoga, Vedanta &and Ta

SADHAK ,SHAKTI & SADHANA;- 04 FACTS;- 1-Sadhakas are of three kinds, viz., Pasu, Veera and Divya. lt is only the Pasu Sadhakas who practise the Pancha Makaras, viz., Matsya, Mamsa, Madya, Mudra and Maithuna (coition). The esoteric/ cryptic meaning of these five Makaras is "kill egoism, control flesh, drink the wine of God-intoxication and have union with Lord Shiva." This is the divine practice of Divya Sadhakas who lead the life divine. Give up Pasu Vritti, the tendency of animals and raise the Divya Vritti or the divine nature. May Para-Sakti, or Devi-the Universal Mother Jagadamba bless us all with wisdom, peace and lmmortal Bliss. 2-The power or active aspect of the immanent God is Shakti. Shakti is the embodiment of power. She is the supporter of the vast universe. She is the supreme Power by which the world is upheld. She is the Universal Mother. She is Durga, Kali, Chandi, Chamundi, Tripurasundari, Rajarajesvari. There is no difference between God and His Shakti, just as there is no difference between fire and its burning power. 3-He who worships Shakti, that is God in Mother form, as the Supreme Power which creates, sustains and withdraws the universe, is a Shakta. All women are the forms of Divine Mother. Shiva is the unchanging consciousness. Shakti is His changing Power which appears as mind and matter. Shakti-vada or Shakta-darshana is a form of monism or Advaita-vada. 4-A Shakta does Sadhana which helps the union of Shiva and Shakti through the awakening of the forces within the body. He becomes a Siddha in the Sadhana when he is able to awaken Kundalini and pierce the six Chakras. WHAT IS ''BINDU'' ?- 07 FACTS;- 1-Bindu means Point or Dot, is sometimes likened to a Pearl, and is often related to the principle of a Seed. This is not just a poetic choice of words or philosophy. There literally is a stage of Yoga Meditation in which all experiences collapse, so to speak, into a point from which all experiences arose in the first place. 2-The Bindu is near the end of the subtlest aspect of mind itself, after which one travels beyond or transcends the mind and its contents. It is near the end of time, space, and causation, and is the doorway to the Absolute. To understand this principle is extremely useful, if not essential to Advanced Meditation. 3-Convergence of practices: Awareness of the nature of Bindu helps tremendously in seeing how all of the various practices are complementary, not contradictory, with each, in its own way, leading in the direction of the Bindu. The Bindu is the convergence(to come from other places to meet in a particular place)point of Meditation, Contemplation, Prayer, and Mantra, and is part of the mystical, esoteric aspect of many, if not most religions and meditative traditions. 4-The experience of Bindu is an actual, internally experienced reality, which is the convergence point of the highest principles and practices of Yoga, Vedanta, and Tantra. Seeking to experience and then transcend the Bindu serves as an organizing principle and focal point for all of those spiritual or yogic practices that are intended to lead one to direct experience. 5-By understanding the convergence point (Bindu) of these practices (Yoga, Vedanta, Tantra), all of the other practices of Yoga and Meditation (Karma, Hatha, Bhakti, Jnana, Kundalini, Laya and Kriya Yogas) can be done in the context of their being support structures or preparation for the higher practices, experiences, and revelations. 6-By keeping in mind this highest perspective on the Bindu (the convergence point), can be understood more clearly. By remembering the focal (relating to the centre) point of Bindu, it is easier to explore the depth of all of the practices,Otherwise, it can seem rather confusing at times. 7-This point of convergence works in conjunction with Guru Chakra (Jnana Chakra), which is the center for the shakti diksha (initiation) that opens the conduit to the teacher or guru within. While this is a universal process, it is also the channel used for the direct, internal transmissions of wisdom and experience given by the tradition of the Himalayan masters. WHAT ARE THE SYMBOLS OF THE BINDU?- 09 FACTS;- The point of divergence and convergence is called Bindu, which means Point or Dot, and is also related to a Seed. The Sanskrit root of Bindu is to break through or to burst through. The symbol has been used in a variety of ways, including the following: 1-THE DOT AS A SYMBOL;- The Point or Dot has been widely used as a symbol for the way in which the unity or unmanifest coexists at all times and places with the gross, external, or manifest worlds. 2-BINDU & CROSS;- The Point or Dot has also been used as a symbol of unity emerging through four lines to form the appearance of two lines crossing. The journey inward is merging back into the point. 3-BINDU & YIN YANG :- The Dot shows two fundamental forces of static and active, with the seed of one permeating the other, manifesting as the symbolic 10,000 things, while ever remaining one. 4-THE DOT & CRESCENT;- The Point and the Crescent is an ancient symbol of the unmanifest point and the manifest reality, later seen as a five pointed star and crescent. 5-LIGHT & A TUNNEL;- People having near-death experiences may report seeing light at the end of a Tunnel. The Tunnel is the subtle channel called Brahma Nadi and the light emerges from Bindu. 6-BINDU & HUB OF A WHEEL :- The ever still Hub of the Wheel symbolizes the Self (Atman) and the spokes are the Four Functions of Mind (Manas, Chitta, Ahamkara, Buddhi) engaging the outer world. 7-BINDU & OM MANTRA;- The dot at the top of the OM symbolizes Turiya, the Absolute Reality, or Pure Consciousness. OM is suggested in both the Yoga Sutras and Vedanta. 8-BINDU & MUSTARD SEED :- Here are a few interesting examples of the mustard seed being used as a symbol of seeking experience of the smallest point, out of which the largest emerges, and to which that largest returns: 8-1-According to Chandogya Upanishad ;- "Atman [Self], residing in the lotus of the heart--is smaller than a grain of paddy, than a barley corn, than a mustard seed, than a grain of millet or than the kernel/core of a grain of millet. This, my Atman residing in the lotus of the heart is greater than the earth, greater than the sky, greater than heaven, greater than all these worlds''. 8-2-According to Matthew;- "Seek first the kingdom..." (Matthew) "The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. Though it is the smallest of all your seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest..." 8-3-According to Guru Granth Sahib;- "The gate of liberation is narrow, less than one-tenth of a mustard seed. The mind has become as big as an elephant; how can it pass through this gate? If one meets such a True Guru, by His Pleasure, He shows His Mercy. Then, the gate of liberation becomes wide open, and the soul easily passes through." NOTE;- 1-These descriptions of Bindu and various symbols are not attempts to universalize the world religions and meditative traditions, which may have quite different practices and views of reality, particularly in the exoteric(suitable for )faces of religion. 2-However, there is a seemingly universal human experience of the Bindu itself on the inner journey, just as the inner experiences of light and sound seem to be common and universal. While the reality is universal, the way of interpreting the experience of Bindu may be different for people of different cultures and religions. 9-THE BINDU IN SRI YANTRA;- 07 FACTS;- 1-The highest, most advanced symbol of Tantra has a Dot or Bindu in the center, which also symbolizes this point of divergence and convergence. The Bindu of Sri Yantra is also universal:- We should only seek the bindu, the dot in the center of the sri yantra, the symbol of the ever-present union of shiva and shakti 2-The Bindu at the center of the Sri Yantra symbolizes the final union of Shiva and Shakti (the static and active), the Absolute Reality that is to be realized. Vidya means knowledge, and Yantra is visual form. Thus, Sri Yantra is the visual form of Sri Vidya, which is the knowledge. 3-Those who practice Sri Vidya Tantra at the lower levels find that there are a vast number of practices, rituals, and mantras that one might do. It is as if there is no end to these practices, just as there is no end to the diversity of objects and experiences that to are be had at the Gross (Vaishvanara) and Subtle (Taijasa) levels of reality, which are mapped out on the OM Mantra. 4-For those who seek the higher ground, the subtlest realities that eventually reveal the Absolute that is represented by the Bindu, there is an increasing simplicity . 5- In the case of Sri Yantra and Sri Vidya, this means going through the chakras so as to experience merging into and piercing the Bindu at the center, just as there is seeking of the Bindu in the OM Mantra. You would see one ring inside the other. If you were to draw this view on a piece of paper, you would draw a circle inside of a circle. 6-Passing through the Bindu leads to the convergence and union of Shiva and Shakti, the static and active forces of the universe, also known as the masculine and feminine divine, which were never really divided in the first place. 7-If you were to look upward, from the base of the spine, through the sushumna channel (silver cord), the central channel of the subtle body, that it is a series of concentric circles.Inside of the smallest circle, at the far end, you would see the point of Bindu, which is the gateway to the highest Reality. This is a part of the symbolism of the Sri Yantra. This is why the practitioners of the higher Tantra, the Samaya school of Sri Vidya seek to go beyond, if not completely ignore, the lower chakras. IS BINDU BEYOND THE SENSE & THOUGHTS?- 03 FACTS;- 1- It is very important to understand that the actual Bindu is far beyond the senses and thoughts in the conventional sense of thinking processes involving strings of words, images, or other such impressions. This means transcending not only the senses as operating through the physical organs, but also the inner or mental experience of sensation. For example, one not only closes the eyes, but also goes beyond all manner of inner visualization. 2-When attention on all of the Gross and Subtle objects and processes collapses, so to speak, and thus, moves inward towards the Bindu, there is a convergence on a point, which is the finer meaning of one-pointedness of mind. There may be an extremely intense awareness of the nature of pure sound and light, but this is very different from what we experience by mental visualization or imagination. 3-The journey to the Bindu starts to become the experience of the source of light (Jyotir Bindu / Tejo Bindu) and the source of sound (Nada Bindu), as well as being the source out of which other sensation, mental processes, and the instruments of mentation/mental activity emerge. IS BINDU EARLIER & LATER STAGES OF PRACTICE?- 02 FACTS;- 1-In the earlier stages of Meditation and Contemplation, inner sensory experiences and mental processes are intentionally explored so as to attenuate the colorings of attachment, aversion(a strong dislike) and fear. It is later, building on this solid foundation of purifying and balancing the mind, that the aspirant seeks to transcend these experiences so as to enter the inner cave with the intent of encountering and piercing the Bindu. 2-By being aware that the inner thoughts and sensing either are or are not present at the different stages of Meditation and Contemplation, the process is predictable, comfortable and not confusing. There is a true art in finding the times, the moments when it is just right to seek to enter the stillness, darkness, and silence so as to pursue the Bindu. Like all arts, it refines with practice. HOW TO KNOW THE END OF JOURNEY?- 03 FACTS;- 1-It is very useful to be mindful of the commonly reported experience of people having near-death experiences and the reports of people from a wide range of Meditation and other spiritual practices. In each of these ways, there have been numerous reports of seeing light at the end of a tunnel. This does not require following any particular religion, spiritual teachings, or Meditation methods. 2- To say that there is a tunnel with a source of light at the end is more like the statement that all people have lungs and a stomach than it is like a statement that falls in the domain of religious belief; it is a factual reality. 3-It is important to note that the Bindu in the center is symbolic of the source of that point of light as it is viewed when looking through the energy channel (tunnel) leading to it. It doesn't matter whether one does or does not "believe in" the Sri Yantra or Tantra. The symbolized reality is exactly that, a reality, regardless of whether or not the Bindu has yet been consciously experienced. WHAT DOES BINDU CHAKRA MEAN?-

04 FACTS;-

1-Bindu Visarga / Indu, Chandra,/ Soma Chakra/Bindu visarga is also connected with ajna.The Bindu Visarga is located at the back of the head, in a place where many Brahmins keep a tuft of hair. It is symbolized by a crescent moon on a moonlit night, with a point or bindu above it. This is the white bindu, with which yogis try to unite the red bindu below.

2-It is said to be the point through which the soul enters the body, creating the chakras as it descends and terminating in the coiled kundalini energy at the base of the spine. It is often described as the source of the divine nectar, or amrita, though this is sometimes said to come from either ajña chakra or lalita chakra.

3-This nectar falls down into the digestive fire (samana) where it is burnt up. The preservation of this nectar is known as "urdhva retas" (literally: upward semen). The white drop is associated with the essence of semen, while the red bindu is associated with menstrual fluid.This chakra is sometimes known as the Indu, Chandra, or Soma Chakra.

4-In other descriptions, it is located on the forehead - white, with 16 petals - corresponding to the vrittis of mercy, gentleness, patience, non-attachment, control, excellent-qualities, joyous mood, deep spiritual love, humility, reflection, restfulness, seriousness, effort, controlled emotion, magnanimity and concentration. SIGNIFICANCE OF BINDU CHAKRA;- 09 FACTS;- 1-Bindu chakra is one of the centers of energy located throughout the body. It is not included within the traditional seven major chakras, but is sometimes called the eight chakra and is located in the head. Bindu is a Sanskrit word meaning “point” or “dot” and symbolizes the point or source of all creation, whereas chakra means “wheel” or “disk.” 2-Not mentioned in many schools of yoga, the bindu chakra is important in Tantra yoga for its healing properties. It is activated through meditation and certain asanas. 3-Bindu chakra lies at the back of the head about five inches from the top of the skull. When this chakra is not activated, it is similar to a dot, but when charged, the bindu chakra energy of vitality and health begins to flow. In the Tantric tradition, bindu chakra is thought to hold a special nectar (amrit) which helps the yogi reach enlightenment. Both shoulder stand and headstand are yoga postures which open the bindu chakra. Ujayii pranayama and khecari mudra are also useful in activating this chakra. 4-Each chakra is a center of energy believed to affect the body on a physical, spiritual and emotional level. The benefits of opening the bindu chakra include improved eyesight, greater awareness through the awakening of the pineal gland, inner harmony and emotional balance. 5- It also controls hunger and thirst, promoting healthy eating habits. It may relieve anxiety and depression, and expands creativity and imagination.21-If the Bindu Chakra is fully awake and open it shines brightly with a silvery sheen, like the Full Moon.The moon is a symbol of perfection, nectar and energy. Nature receives life-sustaining Prāna from the moon allowing everything to grow and thrive, as moonlight is also essential for the growth of plants and the ripening of fruit – not only sunlight.

6- In the Bhagavad Gita (15/13) Lord Krishna says:“When I come onto the earth, I preserve all beings through my life-giving power. When I become the nectar-giving moon, I nourish the vegetation.”

7-The moon is the symbol of Lord Shiva, and the Mantra of the Bindu Chakra is AMRITAM – I am immortal. At the end of the Peace Mantra we sing

:OM TRYAMBAKAM YAJĀMAHE SUGHANDHIM PUSHTIVARDHANAMURVĀRUKAMIVA BHANDANĀN MRITYOR MUKSHĪYA MĀMRITĀTOM

MEANING;-

My adored One, the three-eyed Lord Shiva , who is omnipresent.May He nurture us and bless us with health.May His blessings liberate us and lead to immortality.

8-This Mantra is known as MAHĀ MRITYUN JAYA MANTRA – the glorious Mantra of victory over death.May the light of Shiva fill our consciousness. May the nectar of immortality spread through and expand our inner space (Chidākāsha).

9-Through this nectar all Chakras are brought into harmony. Fear, sadness, anger, resentment and other disease-producing emotions are released in the healing vibration of this Mantra. May it spread fragrance, melodiousness, love, happiness and contentment through the entire world. BINDU CHAKRA MEDITATION ;- EXERCISE 01 09 STEPS;- (About 20-30 minutes) 1-Sit in a comfortable meditation posture. Become aware of your breathing and relax. 2-Sing OM three times.Dive deeply into your inner world, but continue to remain as an observer and witness of any images and experiences. Do not allow yourself to be overwhelmed by emotion. 3-You are looking at a clear, starry sky and admire the light of the full moon. Silvery moonlight streams into your inner space and fills your body with ambrosia, the nectar of immortality. 4-Listen to the “sound of silence” and feel a deep, inner joy grow within you. Direct your awareness to the Bindu Chakra and observe the flow of energy that radiates from it. When your consciousness connects with the Bindu Chakra an unparalleled feeling of joy rises from the heart. You feel you are no longer alone and perceive within yourself oneness. 5-You experience a delicate sensation in your inner space. The nectar can be felt like very fine rain or mist touching your skin. Each drop produces a resonance in your inner space that lasts for seconds or minutes. 6-Dive deeper and deeper, breathe quietly and in a relaxed manner. With each inhalation and exhalation you can see the silvery, lustrous drops falling from the Bindu Chakra and feel its sweet taste on your tongue. 9-After about 15-20 minutes externalise your consciousness again and become fully aware of your whole body. Inhale and exhale deeply a few times. End the meditation by singing OM three times. NOTE;- To finish each of the meditation practices: 1-Rub the palms together firmly, place them on your face and warm your face muscles. 2-Bend forward (either in the meditation pose or whilst sitting on your heels) until your forehead rests on the floor. Be aware of the flow of blood into the facial muscles. Remain in this position for a short while. In this way the circulation is stimulated after sitting motionless, and a good supply of blood is brought into the head. 3-Slowly sit up and open your eyes. EXERCISE 02 06 STEPS;- (About 20-30 minutes) 1-Sit in a relaxed meditation pose. Bring your awareness to your breathing. Inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth 20 times. 2-Concentrate on the Bindu Chakra in your inner space. Imagine a beautiful, shining full moon that is shining on a peaceful place (eg the ocean, a mountain, a sandy beach, a distant plain). 3-Listen to the subtle sound that the moonlight produces. Smell the fragrance of the nectar that streams from it. 4-A feeling of happiness, love and contentment arises within you. You feel oneness and a sense of peace. 5-Be aware of the fragrance and joyful feelings spreading to the Vishuddhi and Anāhata Chakras (about 15-20 minutes). 6-Sing OM three times and then the Peace Mantra: OM SHĀNTIH, SHĀNTIH, SHĀNTIH OM Peace, Peace, Peace EXERCISE 03 07 STEPS;- (About 20-30 minutes) 1-Sit in a comfortable meditation pose. Relax and inhale and exhale deeply a few times. 2-Sing OM three times.Bring your awareness to the Bindu Chakra. (If it is difficult to feel the Bindu Chakra then press the place where it is located with your finger a few times). 3-Imagine you are in a room and looking at the moon through a window. The room is your body, and the window is where the Bindu Chakra is located. The shining moonlight evokes a pleasant feeling within your whole body. 4-The nectar radiating from the moonlight quietens (make quiet and calm) your thoughts and emotions and imparts an inner clarity, wisdom and harmony. Amrita flows in the form of light and energy as well as nectar. 5-This nectar has a harmonising and healing effect on your psyche. It releases blockages and heals inner wounds. 6-Relax deeply and feel as though the moonlight is illuminating your inner space, and the nectar is releasing all tension. Feel that you are free and healthy (about 15-20 minutes). 7-Inhale and exhale deeply a few times. Sing OM three times and then the Peace Mantra(As given above) ......SHIVOHAM....