Mindfulness Meditation · Liberation
This week’s meditation session is led by Swami Chidananda and the theme is Liberation. The guided meditation begins at 19:29.
Sherab Chamma, “Loving Mother of Wisdom”; Tibet; 19th century; Pigments on cloth; 43 1/4 × 30 in.; Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art; C2005.4.7
Loving Mother of Wisdom, Sherab Chamma in Tibetan, is the principal female deity of the Bon religion. The word bon, meaning “truth,” belongs to the Zhang Zhang language, an ancient language of western Tibet. The Bon religion is indigenous to Tibet, the broader Himalayan region, and Central Asia. Buddhism was introduced to Tibet in the eighth century of the Common Era. Today’s Tibetan Buddhism incorporates aspects of the Bon religion.
The primary role of the Loving Mother of Wisdom is that of a compassionate maternal figure that encompasses the nature of wisdom. She is the mother of all Bon deities and Enlightened Ones. She has multiple names and various forms, both peaceful and wrathful. As we gaze upon her may she imbue us with nurturing and caring qualities.
Swami Chidananda is a spiritual educator and monk initiated in the Vedic Hari Bhakta lineage, holding the distinguished title of Swami. Through the study of scriptures such as the Bhagavad Gita and the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, Swami has gained a deep understanding of the science of yoga and has devoted his life to helping others on their inner journey.
Before entering the spiritual path, he had a successful career as an investment banker and entrepreneur. Now he uses his experiences to convey the ancient yoga systems in a relatable and accessible way for those seeking to reconcile Western and Eastern philosophies. Learn more by listening to his podcast, The Path of a Swami.
Get the latest news and stories from the Rubin, plus occasional information on how to support our work.