Āṇava Mala
Short Summary
The mala of smallness — forgetting our divine fullness and feeling separate or unworthy.
Full Description
Āṇava Mala is the first veil — the subtle contraction that hides the infinite Self in the experience of being small and separate. In Tantra, it’s not a flaw but part of consciousness’ play. Recognition of our wholeness dissolves it, revealing the roar that was never lost.
TED's Take
Bypass the small‑self filter
You are always connected
Even when feeling off kilter
In you the divine is reflected
Physical/Emotional Associations
unworthiness; contraction; shame; isolation
Related Songs
Why
This song explores the dismay we feel when we believe the limiting thoughts that run through our minds. Caught in negative patterns, we can lose connection — with others, and with ourselves. Why parallels the unraveling of a relationship with someone else and the painful disconnect from our own sense of worth. It ends with a quiet ache: What would we give, do, and say... to come home — to them, or to ourselves?
Where We Sleep
“Where We Sleep” moves from shared desires to stark streets, refusing to other anyone. A mantra of unity (“we want the same things”) opens the door; then the perspective flips—freedom’s illusion, the descent into cold, hunger, and being unseen. A stuttering 911-like plea and late-night madness reveal fear more than menace. The final reflection lands softly and truthfully: we were children once; we wanted love and purpose; the only difference now may be a bed and a lock. Compassion, here, is the chorus.
