Raksha Bandhan

Spiritual Life Center is honored to invite you to experience a 5,000 year old Indian Tradition of the Tying of the Rakhi with our dear friends Sister Hansa and the Brahma Kumaris this Sunday during each service.

The literal meaning of "Raksha Bandhan" is the bond of protection. As per tradition, the sister puts a tilak on the forehead of her brother, ties a rakhi (a colorful and decorative thread) on her brother's wrist, and gives sweets as an offering of love. In return, the brother vows to protect his sister under all circumstances, and gives a gift.

Spiritually, Raksha Bandhan has a much deeper meaning.

1. The Tilak

The tilak is a sign of being victorious over our negative influences, both our own and others. It is also a symbol of the awakening of one's awareness of our true identity as spiritual beings.

2. The Rakhi Bracelet

We as human beings, we are brothers and sisters, each unique and valuable in our own way. However, we have the same Spiritual Father. Signifying this the Rakhi is tied as a symbol of the protection of the Divine. And the eternal love for His children. We are never alone.

3. The Gift of a Sweet

The sweets the sister offers to the brother are a symbol of the sweetness of our relationship with the Divine. As God's children, we make a vow to behave sweetly with everyone we shall meet.

4. The Blessing

God is blessing us at every moment. We only need to be present in this moment to experience the warmth of His benevolence.