September 21th at 5 am
Equinox Sunrise at Angkor Wat
Equinoxes, where day and night are of equal length, are universally seen as symbols of balance and harmony, representing a point of equilibrium between the energies of day and night, East and West, Masculine and Feminine and Heaven and Earth. The Autumn equinox marks the transition from the growth and fertility of Summer, to the harvest and abundance of Autumn.
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It’s a time to celebrate the fruits of our labours, recognise and appreciate the results of our efforts and experiences and express gratitude for what we have and the abundance we are inviting in to our lives.
With the shortening of days, we’re invited to turn our gaze inwards, assess where we stand and like the shedding of leaves in the autumn, let go of what no longer serves us and make room for new energies to arise.
The ancient builders of Angkor understood the significance and power of cosmological transits and Angkor Wat Temple was designed and built so that twice a year, during the Equinoxes, the Sunrise aligns with its central tower.
The original name for Angkor Wat, was Vrah Vishnuloka, meaning, “Sacred abode of Vishnu.” Vishnu, as Surya Narayana IS the Sun and on the days around the Equinox sunrise the Temple becomes the connecting point between Sky and ground, Heaven and Earth, Above and below and resonates with this divine Solar energy.
After meeting at the Western entrance, we’ll watch the sunrise from inside the grounds. Then, with the Temple singing with the Solar frequencies, we’ll enter into the dwelling place of Vishnu and listen to a telling of the story of the churning of the ocean of milk (Samudra Manthana), in front of the renowned bas relief carving that depicts this story.
The myth of the Samudra Manthana and the quest for the elixir of immortality is a metaphor representing the search for knowledge of the self and enlightenment. Those familiar with the work of Joseph Campbell will understand the power that can be transmitted through the telling of mythic tales. Recounting this ancient story in front of such a depiction, within the walls of the world’s largest religious structure, the sacred realm of Vishnu himself, offers profound benefits for those on a spiritual path. Following this we’ll make offerings at the shrines to the four directions atop the Temple and participants can make their own connection with the divine energies we’ve been experiencing. Then before leaving, we’ll find a secluded space within the Temple grounds for some grounding and a guided meditation.
This excursion offers a fantastic opportunity to align ourselves with the great Cosmic cycle, harmonise with these sublime energies and set intentions for personal and planetary healing. Done with a purity of intent, at this moment in time and at this place of initiation, one can take significant steps forward in one’s personal healing and evolution.
