Mindfulness Meditation · Story
This week’s meditation session is led by Sharon Salzberg and the theme is Story.
Durga Killing the Buffalo Demon (Durga Mahisasuramardini); Nepal; 12th-13th century; Gilt copper alloy; Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art; C2005.16.11
One of the finest examples of Nepalese craftsmanship known in the world, this sculpture of Durga killing the Buffalo Demon is a jewel of the Rubin’s collection. According to the story, a terrible demon named Mahisa set out to terrorize the world and could not be defeated by the gods. Durga holds the weapons of all the gods, which they gave her to help defeat Mahisa. This sculpture depicts the final dramatic scene of the story, when Durga cuts off the head of a buffalo, Mahisa’s current form, pulling the demon out of the buffalo’s body. Durga represent the ultimate expression of feminine energy that animates all things in the universe.
Sharon Salzberg is a meditation pioneer, world-renowned teacher, and New York Times bestselling author. She was among the first to bring mindfulness and lovingkindness meditation to mainstream American culture over 50 years ago, inspiring generations of meditation teachers and wellness influencers. Sharon is cofounder of the Insight Meditation Society in Barre, MA, and the author of 14 books, including the New York Times bestseller Real Happiness, now in its second edition, and her seminal work, Lovingkindness. Sharon’s podcast, The Metta Hour, has amassed eight million downloads and features interviews with thought leaders from the mindfulness movement and beyond.
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