Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva

In Indian philosophy the three main gods are Brahma, the Creator; Vishnu, the Protector and Shiva, the Destroyer.

Mr.Iyengar writes about the Trinity gods in relation to Pranayama.

He says that "Pranayama actually has three movements. Inhalation, retention and exhalation.  It is very interesting to know its similarity with the creator, protector and the destroyer.  Inhalation is the generator of the energy known as Brahma.  Protector is Vishnu.  You hold the breath so that you make that energy to protect the entire empire of the soul.  Kumbhaka's job is only to protect so that is known as Vishnu.  The destroyer is known as Maheshwara-Shiva.  If you hold the vicious breath then you will die.  Similarly, we exhale, so that air which is not good for the health is thrown out."

At the Annual General Meeting in Toronto this past May, one of the wonderful teachers that came from India related Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva to Guruji B.K.S. Iyengar.
Raya said that Guruji embodies these three gods by creating positivity where we are lacking energy (Brahma), he teaches how to retain energy(Vishnu) and also how to destroy impurities and fears(Shiva).  This process of learning is his blessing to us.

In light of his 94th birthday this Friday..December 14th here is the chant to the guru..to show my respect.

GURUR BRAHMA,
GURUR VISHNU,
GURUR DEVO MAHESHWARAH
GURUR SAAKSHAAT PARA-BRAHMA,
TASMAI SHRI GURUVE NAMAH.

 

The Guru is Brahma (The God of Creation)
The Guru is Vishnu (The God of Sustenance)
The Guru is Shiva (The God of Annihilation)
My Salutation to such a Guru, who is verily the Supreme God.

 

 

Namaste.

Pamela Nelson

www.plnyoga.vpweb.com