Hindu Medicine c8.47

Language: English

c8.47

From the macrocosmic aspect of breath the hymn turns to its activity in man. All its movements and expressions are worthy of worship (7, 8) : its flowing in and out; its turning away, and its returning (that it is the same life-bearing, fluid, essential substance that moves downward and forward seems evident). There is a healing force (bheṣaja), a curative element or medicine in breath (9), if it is properly worshipped and attended to. This remark refers to the breathing exercises which, apart from special yoga technique and training, form part of the daily devotional practice of the Hindu at dawn and at dusk. The solemn rhythmical monotony of the incantation suggests that its recital may have been accompanied by a regulated rhythm of breathing, apt to evoke the presence and to propitiate the goodwill of Breath:

Previous: c8.46
Next: c8.48
Up: c8