Hanuman- The Monkey God

Hanuman or the monkey god lived in another epoch/yuga during the ages of Rama. In Vedic philosophy he is considered to be the ultimate devotee. He depicts strength, valor, courage, the ability to fly. Hanuman can accomplish all acts that human beings cannot.

According to the Vaishnava traditions- Hanuman is not a god but a human who evolved to the level of god, wherein he represents the qualities of omniscience, omnipotence and omnipresence. Hanuman plays a vital role in human evolution this year. Understanding of the archetype, Hanuman is crucial for all those who are preparing for The Golden Age.

Hanuman in various cultures

Known also as Anjaneya, Maruti, Pavanputra, Anjaniputra, Bajrang Bali and Hanumat, Hanuman's exploits are much celebrated in a variety of religious and cultural traditions.

Most cultures of Southeast Asia are rooted in Indian influences, which filtered through the region from around the second century AD onwards. Religious, mythological, linguistic and other elements of Indian culture were absorbed, and thus became especially persuasive. Various local populations adapted and molded Indian influences to their own ways, gradually evolving cultures that were distinct yet with common roots.

Most influential of all was the Ramayana which, along with the Mahabharata, ranks as India's greatest literary work.

The book of Ramakien, is the Thai version of the Indian Ramayana epicin which Rama, Vishnu's reincarnation on earth and heir to the throne of Ayodhya in Northern India is banished from heaven and spends fourteen years in exile on earth with his wife Sita and his brother Lakshman. With the assistance of a monkey army whose commander is Hanuman, the monkey god, they set out to destroy the forces of evil on earth.

Since 1902 the Ramakien has become part of Thailand's school curriculum. This epic literature contains romance, adventure, heroism, magic, demons, and gods. Here are just some of the characters who have martial connections:

  • Rama - Vishnu resident in the cosmic ocean until reborn on earth specifically to destroy evil demons .
  • Erawan - Indra's white elephant steed.
  • Hanuman - white monkey with fur which sparkles like diamonds and Rama's greatest warrior.
  • Naga - the mighty serpent King;
  • Indrachit (Ronapak) - Tosakanth's warrior son also Ongkot, Sadayu, Tosakanth, Khumpakan and lesser demons.

There are many Muay Thai techniques, which are inspired by stories for example:

  • Hak Kor Erawan : This story is where Hanuman leapt to the sky to break the false Erawan's neck
  • Hanuman Tawai Waen : This episode tells of Hanuman presenting Sita with her ring to prove that he is Rama's emissary.

All these are even depicted in Muay Thai (Thai Boxing) as various techniques. Thus, the archetype of Hanuman has been a major part in the cultural history and traditions of not only India, where he is said to be born, but also in major countries of South-east Asia.

Hanuman and Devotion

Hanuman, the son of Vayu (Wind God), is known for his humility and bravery. Due to his supernatural powers, nothing is impossible for him.

Hanuman is a favorite figure all over South East Asia and his most celebrated quality is his total devotion to his master, Rama. It thus stands as the most important lesson in the Indian philosophy:- 'absolute surrender is the secret to reach the Almighty'.

It is customary to call out to Hanuman at all times of need and the devotee is confident that his prayer will be answered. On Saturdays and Thursdays many people observe a fast in honor of Hanuman and give special offerings to him. Hanuman is believed to work miracles even today.

Hanuman is the only God not affected by the ill effects of planet Saturn. He therefore, is the symbolic God for protection from Saturn. Devotees of Hanuman are blessed with courage and wisdom.

One of the lucky charms Obama carried during his presidential election campaign is a small idol of monkey God Hanuman. He became familiar with Hanuman during his stay in Indonesia, where Hinduism is popular.

Carolyn Sauvage-Mar, Obama's representative, received a gold-plated two-feet-high Hanuman, in New Delhi, capital of India, by a group of well-wishers to help Obama to emerge victorious!

Hanuman and the Planterary God (Saturn) Shani Bhagavan

In the Ramayana, Hanuman is said to have rescued Saturn, (Shani Bhagavan), from the clutches of Ravana. In gratitude, Saturn (Shani Bhagavan) promised Hanuman that those who prayed to him (Hanuman) would be rescued from the painful effects of Saturn, which in Hindu astrology is said to produce malefic effects on one's life when one is afflicted "negatively" with Saturn.

Another version of the encounter between Hanuman and Saturn (Shani Bhagavan ) is that the latter once climbed on to Hanuman's shoulder, implying that he (Hanuman) was coming under the effects of the influence of Saturn (Shani Bhagavan). At this, Hanuman assumed a large size, and Shani was caught painfully between Hanuman's shoulders and the ceiling of the room they were in. As the pain was unbearable, Shani requested Hanuman to release him, promising that if a person prayed to Hanuman, he (Shani) would moderate the malefic effects of his influence on that person; following this, Hanuman released Shani.

Here is one more version of the story behind why Lord Shani stays away from those who remember Rama's name. Once Lord Hanuman was sitting silently absorbed in deep meditation of Rama. Lord Shani passed by and began to tease Hanuman. He started teasing Hanuman by pulling his tail, and pinching.

Hanuman warned him to go away as he is his Guru's (Lord Sun) son, and so he respects him. When Shani did not pay heed, Hanuman got into a martial combat with Shani Bhagavan. In the end, Shani pleaded to leave him and Hanuman took a promise from him that Shani will never ever go near a devotee who is meditating on Rama.

There is a spiritual interpretation of the relation between Hanuman and Lord Shani. The former is said to be a symbol of selflessness, while the latter is symbolic of instant judgment based on past and present karma. Thus, to counter the karma borne out of selfish action, one must be humble like Hanuman. This is particularly true for those who are said to be experiencing the evil effects of "Sade Sati" - a period of about seven and half years when Saturn (Lord Shani) is supposed to afflict the sign in which planet Moon is placed in the natal chart of a person.

There is also a belief that all the planets are under the control of Hanuman's tail. Whoever worships Hanuman is granted fortitude and strength. He is considered to be the lord of Mars. Mars is considered to be the Senapati (General) of the army of God. In the human body, Mars is symbolized in the form of blood.

What does Hanuman Represent?

This monkey god represents total service to humanity. He represents the possibility of human evolution from a life of pain, suffering, fear and ignorance to intelligence, courage and knowledge. Helping humans evolve and emulate qualities of the divine, Hanuman, in the year 2011 brings hope to humanity. He represents the ability of humanity to achieve unlimited power, intelligence and energy to do everything.

According to the Madhava tradition, (Madhava himself is an incarnation of Hanuman), human beings cannot become god- but can rise up to this level of Hanuman.

Dedicate this year to connecting with the archetype of Hanuman for transcendence, strength, power and a life free from ignorance.

Personal Practices

Chant the Mantra (Quantum Sound Frequency )given by Dr. Pillai to invoke Hanuman's blessings and grace in your life. OM REENG HREEM MARKATA MARKATAYA SWAHA Get a Shiva-Shakti mala, made from rudraksha/crystal beads, and chant these quantum sound frequencies 108 times daily.

Yantras (Archetypal Symbols )

Yantras, (Archetypal symbols) are empowered diagrams with squares, triangles, circles in a certain permutation and combination, made in sacred geometry and perfect symmetry. These symbols were used to attract one's desires and wants. Every archetypal symbol is empowered by its Archetypal being. The Archetypal Symbol is the conduit through which you connect with the Archetypal Being. These empowered diagrams were cognized by the yogic seers in deep states of Samadhi (Mind Process).?

The Hanuman Yantra, Archetypal Symbol

Hanuman, the Guardian deity will guard you against all dangers and strengthen you with courage and knowledge. His unflinching energy will power up your life line and stimulate your inner spirits. Hanuman Yantra contains the power lines that could attract his blessings towards you; the positive radiations will relieve you from incurable illnesses, laziness and bless you with longevity, courage, productivity and effective communication skills.

How to Use the Hanuman Yantra (Archetypal Symbol)?

  • Do not let other people touch the Yantra.
  • Periodically wash the Yantra with rose water or milk. Then, rinse it with water and wipe it to dry. The Yantra's colour may change over a period of time; however this does not dilute the power of the Yantra.

Chant the Mantra below in front of the Yantra, preferably after showering.

Mantra for Hanuman Yantra (Archetypal Symbol) :

Om Anjaneyaya Vidmahe

Vayuputraya Dheemahi,

Tanno Hanuman Prachodayat
