Astrological Mythology The Meaning of ... - Mandhata Global

peripheral activities are trimmed, though the reduction may be full of painful
sacrifices. Such a preparation is made so that the inherent reality of the
individual and of the manifestation around him is revealed.
Vishnu or Hari as the presiding deity relates this asterism to the cosmic
preservative principle whose primary function is to harmonize and eradicate
all impediments to the growth of the soul. In this role Vishnu floats on the
sea of primeval matter reclining on the coils of Shesha-Naga, the cosmic
serpent. He balances all the divergent forces and harmonizes the rough sea
of worldly existence. He works to help the evolving soul out of the turmoil
and encouragingly guides it along the evolutionary path. In order to guide
the soul on its perilous journey, Vishnu creates situations in which the
aspirant relinquishes Asat, the false, and embraces Sat, the true.
This radical transformation requires clear perception of one's true nature
beyond the veil of ignorance. Under Shravana, one begins to perceive the
truth of the manifestation concealed in the illusory appearances. This
unveiling results in the tearing of the old and transcending of the hard crust
of primeval ignorance. It is always a trying experience. The lordship of
Saturn over Capricorn which contains this asterism, contributes to the
hardship. Shravana is not an asterism of comfort and enjoyment, but one of
difficulty and disillusionment. The trying experiences it gives can only be
borne with endurance and patience. Yogic teachings give instructions for the
necessary psycho-physical preparations. On such a path of listening to the
pure sound of the cosmos — Nada — it is essential to have a sound intellect
bestowed by Mercury and good intuitive insight granted by Venus. These
allow the individual to seriously set foot on the path and move toward the
attainment of his enduring goal.
The endurance of personal pain and suffering in order to listen to the cosmic
voice without any distortion is possible only with the benediction of a strong
Mars. Before the voice of the cosmic Great Silence is heard, there must be
the persistence of a mongoose, and the eager intellect of a monkey. But these
make the individual isolated from his friends, turn him away from society
and make him live in a world of his own. This is the life of an outcast. Yet
having gone through these ordeals of Shravana, the individual is ready to
function as a man of knowledge.
23 DHANISHTA