Bell

                                             Bell


   The bell ( ghanta ) is mentioned in the Puranas ( scriptures ) as an important appliance at worship, and also as a protector from evils. The bell is said to be an embodiment of all gods and that of all musical instruments, hence it should be sounded.

Tying of the bell in the Shiva- temple is said to confer on the person fame in the three worlds. The shape and structure of the bell is also specifically described. At the head of the bell, there should be Garuda, the vehicle of Vishnu or Nandi, the vehicle of Shiva.

The temple where ringing of the bell is regularly heard, is known as waking temple. Big and small bells are hung at the entrance of the temple, so devotees ring them and announce their presence for the worship of god. At the time of aarti also, the bell is rung and others in the neighbourhood get information that that is the time for aarti. It is rung with a special rhythm . The sounding of the ghata ( bell ) is mentioned at typical and specific periods - at the time of worship, at the sleep of god, at waving the lamp around the god's image, at the time of the bath of the idol of the god, and at anointing it.

The chiming of bells in ancient and modern day Zen Buddhist monasteries and ashram as is a regular ritual that serves to subtly transform one through sound. Considered to be a spiritual act, bell ringing is intended to awaken the spiritual energies within us - within our surroundings. In Indian temples now a days also, the spiritual act of performing aarti, a form of worship that waves a lamp flame infront of a deity is accompanied by the ringing of a bell or many bells simultaneously to awaken the energy of divine grace.

A bell provides an audible reminder of our Bliss Principle within.

Scientific studies have reinforced the motion that resonance is basic to healing with sound and music. As good rhythmic sound waves enter the body, sympathetic vibrations occur in living cells, which help to restore and reinforce healthy organization. The human being therefore is likened to a very complex, unique and finely tuned musical instrument. The high water content of the body's tissues helps to conduct a soothing massage at the atomic and molecular level.