the Equinox - The Hermetic Library

THE TEMPLE OF SOLOMON THE KING
In the second stage (Ghatâvasthâ) the Prâna becomes one
with the Nada in the Vishuddhi Chakkra and make a sound
like that of a kettledrum; this is a sign that Bramhânanda is
about to follow. In the third stage (Parichayâvastha) a sound
like a drum is heard in the Ajna Chakkra. Having overcome
the blissful state arising from hearing the sounds the Yogi
begins to experience a greater bliss from the increasing realization
of the Âtman.
The Prâna, having forced the Rudra Granthi existing in the Ajna Chakkra goes
to the seat of Ishwara. Then the fourth state (Nishpatti) sets in: wherein are
heard the sounds of the flute and Vînâ (a stringed instrument).*
At this stage the Prâna goes to the Bramharandhra, and
enters the Silence.
This is all most beautifully described in the various Shastras.
In the Shiva Sanhita we read:
27. The first sound is like the hum of the honey-intoxicated bee, next that of a
flute, then of a harp; after this, by the gradual practice of Yoga,† the destroyer of
the darkness of the world, he hears the sounds of the ringing bells, then sounds
like roars of thunder. When one fixes his full attention on this sound, being free
from fear, he gets absorption, O my beloved.
28. When the mind of the Yogi is exceedingly engaged in this sound, he
forgets all external things, and is absorbed in this sound.‡
H. P. Blavatsky in “The Voice of the Silence” classifies
these sounds under seven distinct heads.
The first is like the nightingale’s sweet voice chanting a song of parting to its
mate.
The second comes as the sound of a silver cymbal of the Dhyânis, awakening
the twinkling stars.
* “Hatha Yoga Pradipika,” p. 93.
† Chiefly by the Yoga of Nâda-Laya, a Dhyâna.
‡ “Shiva Sanhita,” chap. v, p. 42.
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