Darshan
The word 'Darshan' is derived from the Sanskrit root "drsh", meaning 'to see' or 'get a glimpse of'. The word, for example, is used as a term for the sight of a deity in a temple, a spiritual master or a revered person.
During
the "Darshan" programme, Swami Vishwananda usually sings devotional
songs to God. He may also talk or lead a meditation. Following this, everybody
can come to him and receive his personal blessing. The blessing can be received
kneeling down or standing in front of Swami Vishwananda. While he is giving
the blessing, devotional/ spiritual songs are being sung and everyone is invited
to join in with the chorus or to meditate.
There are a few formal rules for attending:
- Everyone should come to Darshan modestly dressed. (e.g. no shorts, short skirts, or low cut dresses)
- Children are welcome. Their parents or guardians are asked to ensure that they do not disturb the programme.
- Photos, video or audio recordings are only allowed by authorised persons.
- Parents with small children, elderly or handicapped people, who may need some help, are welcome to receive the blessing without queuing.
- Darshan with Swami Vishwananda is always free of charge.
Darshan with Swami Vishwananda
"When
giving Darshan I touch people on the forehead and at the back of the head.
By pressing my hand simultaneously on the Medulla Point at the back of the
head and the Ajna Chakra on the forehead (also called the third eye) the
God-given life-energy that sustains our bodies and flows through everyone,
is centred and sent to the heart. This energy makes the heart vibrate stronger
and helps to open it. It may also be sent to different parts
of the body where there is a lack of energy. It is important to understand,
that the love which may be felt during Darshan is the love of the own inner
Self, the own divine Soul.
To receive Darshan or blessing from a Master is a help, but it doesn't
lead to 'enlightenment'. It doesn't release one to do daily meditation,
introspection and other consistent spiritual practices. Nonetheless, Darshan
and the peaceful atmosphere created by singing the divine names can be
a significant support on the path.
My work is to open the hearts of people and make them realise they
have infinite love within themselves — and that it is very
easy to give this love away unconditionally to others around
them."
- Swami Vishwananda