Trambekeshwar
It was a relief today not to have to endure a long bus ride, and we actually got to enjoy an extended amount of time at the Trambekeshwar Temple. Once again we "hired" a group of young boys--I think they were bramacharya, or students--to chant the Rudrum for us. There chanting was different from yesterday with more harmonies, but not as polished as the priests in Somnath.
Women were not allowed to do puja to the lingum at this particular temple. Each temple has its own peculiarities. We all were allowed "darshan" or the chance to see the lingum, but it was a funky set-up where you got a better view of the action looking in a tilted mirror.
Someone explained to me that the entire Trambekeshwar structure was hewn from one piece of stone. It certainly seemed much more ancient than Somnath, which we know was not. I hunted down booklet in English that explains all the Jyotir Lingums so I hope to look at that after dinner tonight.
The group had a little time for temple shopping, which everyone enjoyed. I think we have a longer drive tomorrow, but are going to a Shani Temple on the way. Shani, astrologically in India, is Saturn. Translated, it means "slow-moving" I believe. Often, this can be a strong aspect in an individual's birthchart, as it is for me, so anything that can be done to appease Shani is a good idea as far as I am concerned!
posted by Lydia at 8:39 AM
