Nirvana Soma

Japanese bow warrior takes aim at sea. All the bows created in my workshop are made from fusing two lengths of bamboo to each other. The main piece of the bow, or the 'face' of the bow is made from 2" diameter bamboo (see photo) that is cut in half.  A smaller, thinner length of bamboo, the 'belly' or inner piece is laminated to this. Both are bound together to make the bow; waxed cord is used to secure a stable binding before the bow is strung for shooting.  Spirit bows: These bows are usually smaller in length about 36" or 90cm It is the sound of the bow that cleanses the space. The arrow carries the intention of the shooter to create a spiritual environment. This bow is more about 'intent' than hitting a specific target.  Shephard bows: Shephard bows are one piece bows and are used for target practice, small game and to protect the flock. These bows are strong and have use as a defensive weapon. The shephard would use a bow like this to shoot rabbit...

Govindan Ashan, Indian archer: Teaches the art of the bow to preserve the tradition. His name means protector of the earth. Savaripa as hunter, learned not-killing from his master, overcame his negative karma and used the bow to attain enlightenment. His poem below speaks to his attainment in spiritual awareness. His name means, one's true form. Original nature. Embodiment of truth and beauty. Mahamudra means "great seal" or "great imprint" and refers to the notion that "all phenomena inevitably are stamped by the perception of wisdom and emptiness being inseparable".   Also it is described as:  “Mind as it is” “Self-liberation” “Understanding one's original primal mind” Mahamudra is attained by uniting the creative (male) and the fulfillment (female) aspects of the mind through meditation. Thus making mahamudra a form of Tantra.

The Inchworm Archery Method by Kao Ying   (Gao Ying) was written  during the Ming Dynasty and was part of the "Traditional Martial Archery Study Classics" book. This illustrated book goes into great detail on the body mechanics of Kao Ying's preferred archery style. This includes drawing, reaching max draw, and the release of the arrow.     The Bow and Arrow possess deep spiritual meanings, generally symbolizing divine direction, focused intention, protection, and the active pursuit of spiritual goals . They represent the connection between human effort and divine power, where the arrow signifies the soul or intention directed toward a target, and the bow represents the strength or willpower involved in the process.  Tibetan goddess figure uses the bow to dispel ignorance and attachment to the ego self. Divine Direction & Willpower: The arrow represents a targeted intention, while the bow represents the force propelling that goal. In Native American traditi...