Aditya Hridayam Punyam Sarva Shatru vinyashanam

"Keep the sun in your heart, and all evil will vanish.You will have auspiciousness and success, and you will be victorious over your enemies. You will have happiness and wealth."

In the great Hindu epic tale of the Ramayana, a sage gives this teaching to Lord Rama, as he is about to enter into battle with the demon king Ravana.

Understanding this chant metaphorically, this battle is symbolic of the soul seeking to triumph over the domination of the ego. "Being victorious in battle" refers to victory of wisdom and truth over mental afflictions, ignorance and negative mind states. We can enjoy spiritual wealth and success by keeping the sun in our heart.

The sun shines freely and abundantly on everyone, without discrimination. Keeping the sun in our heart means practicing this same kind of generosity of compassion and kindness toward all beings. We come to see the radiance of Spirit as the true nature that shines in ourselves and in each one of us.

Here’s a mantra mashup— ancient Sanskrit wisdom, with a touch of Broadway musical ( a little inspiration from songwriters James Rado, Gerome Ragni, and Galt MacDermot).

May we keep the sun in our heart, this day and every day.