by Ruth Diab Lederer
Various traditions have subtly different interpretations of the word dharma. Although the Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh and Jain traditions generally understand the term to exemplify the highest levels of existence, there is no Western equivalent to understand it.
Researching the word through its syllables reveals an interesting meaning. If “dhṛ” can be understood to convey “holding, possessing, having,” and “mā” can be similarly understood to convey “measure, mete out, mark off,” then dharma has an intersection with Vaastu.
Vaastu is a philosophy of possessing a measured space/structure. According to the Vaastu Shastras, the ancient texts that articulate this philosophy, the space/structures designed in this system— from micro to macro—are designed with specific measures derived from Ayadi calculations. These “measured” calculations are specific to every structure, affect every detail of the structure and influence every person in the structure.
Ayadi is a mathematical formula that is based on measurements and identifies the characteristics of a building. These characteristics are specific qualities of energy. There are 16 sets of energetic characteristics, and each calculation corresponds to one of the 16. The sets range from pleasure and enjoyment to wealth, bravery and fearlessness. Just as light waves have characteristic colors and sound waves have characteristic tones, Ayadi calculations identify specific energetic characteristics and can bring benefits or detriments.
One characteristic refers to the type of gains the resident will enjoy. Gaining through a “growth in wisdom” is one possibility, as is gaining by way of “substance” or material possessions. Another characteristic is related to the front door, which can be placed on any of the walls. In the appropriate spot on the wall, the front door can confer wealth, physical comfort either with or without peace of mind, and other qualities.
A basic function of the Ayadi mathematical formula determines the size of the structure that is most beneficial for an individual, family, business or community. The structure size that results from the calculation is then precisely built to match the dimensions of this calculation. While the structure itself represents dharma in its own way—“holding” a particular “measure”—this “held measure” also affects the inhabitants in the way the energetic characteristics are experienced.
For example, a perimeter of 120 feet, which would be a good size for a two-story house in Chicago, would provide gains to the inhabitants by way of their principles and values. This could be realized in a work environment where decisions based on principles and values brings either a tangible benefit, as in increased revenue, or an intangible benefit, as in an improved relationship.
Space constructed with the precision of Vaastu becomes alive. Its Brahma Sutra, the spine-like line that bisects the space, vibrates. As a structure is created, the energetic characteristics identified in the Ayadi calculations begin to collect in the space, bringing consciousness there.
Before long, workers and others near the space— even neighbors—begin to feel something they cannot describe. It’s an energetic experience beyond our words, yet it is undeniable. Imagine that the building’s spine has become enlivened and is vibrating. This energized spine is delivering the qualities designed into the building— qualities of consciousness—into the air and then into the inhabitants. Short-term visitors or permanent inhabitants experience the same things in varying degrees.
Over time inhabitants more fully resonate with the structure’s defined characteristics. This activates the person’s Brahma Sutra—his or her bisecting line—producing a luminous experience for the inhabitants. This experience may include the feeling of living in fearlessness, growing in wisdom and finding physical comfort. It can all be the result of the pure dimensions of Vaastu built space. Indeed, the luminous experience of Vaastu is the result of dharma—the “held measure.”
Ruth Diab Lederer is the principal of Vaastu Partners LLC. Contact her at ruth@vaastupartners.com for more information or to visit a newly built Vaastu cottage in Lake Bluff, Illinois.
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