211
and express in stone and metal the hidden meaning of their doctrines. A few explanations and suggestions will be sufficient to justify the foregoing statements, and indicate the mannner in which these symbols should be interpreted.
A Sanskrit verse is often repeated by Hindus, which says that journeys to seven places of pilgrimage will secure Moksha to the devotee. These places are enumerated thus: (1) Ayodhya, (2) Mathura, (3) Maya, (4) Kaçi (Benares), (5) Kanchi (Conjiveram), (6) Avantika (Ojeen), and (7) Dwaraka. Now, these places are intended to represent the seven centres of ocoult energy in the human body, known as (1) Sahasram, (2) Agnya, (3) Visuddhi, (4) Anahatam, (5) Swadhisthanam, (6) Manipurakam, and (7) Mulatharam respectively. The ideas associated with these places will become intelligible when examined by the light of the doctrines connected with these force-centres by Yogis.
It is generally believed by the Hindus that death in Benares secures final emancipation from the necessity of a rebirth. This belief is so strong in the minds of the ordinary people as to lead a considerable number to resort to this place every year for the purpose of remaining there till they die.
This certainly appears to be a ridiculous superstition. But a great spiritual truth is lurking behind this strange belief. This truth will become apparent when we ascertain what death at Benares is really intended to mean. From the foregoing arrangement of the seven sacred places alluded to, it will be seen that Benares corresponds to the heart in the human body, in the centre of which the Anahata chakram of the Yogis is located; and the truth of this inference is further strengthened by the manner in which Kaçi is described in the Sankalpam (preliminary recitation before bathing or commencing any worship). It is therein said that Benares is between Asi and Varuna; that it is situated in Anandavana; that it is in Mahasmasana (or the great graveyard or burial ground); that it stands in front of Gouri; that it is held up by the three points of the trident of Siva; that it is in the midst of Brahma
