At the center of the Hidden Temple you will find an altar to Hanuman, a major deity of the Hindu pantheon. Why? Because he symbolizes core values that guide the mission and purpose of this community center.

 

In the ancient epic Ramayana, Hanuman is the dedicated and enthusiastic servant to Prince Rama, a manifestation of the divine principle. Through bold and courageous actions that defy the laws of nature, Hanuman rescues Sita, Rama’s feminine counterpart, enabling the holy couple to reunite.

 

A compelling aspect of Hanuman’s mythological narrative is how he awoke to his power. The son of great wind god Vayu, Hanuman was born with Strength beyond all measure. As a young monkey he was reckless with this immense power, threatening the fundamental balance of the world. To preserve order, the Rishis (i.e. enlightened masters) cursed (or, you could say, blessed) the young monkey god, causing him to forget and thereby lose access to his strength until others reminded him of it. Over time, Hanuman grew into a wise and generous servant of the divine. In the pursuit of daunting tasks, supportive guides eventually appeared to remind him of his latent power and divine origins. Thus recognized by others, Hanuman became invigorated and inspired to make great leaps in service of divine love and union.

 

Hanuman represents a sacred balance between Strength and Devotion. Like Hanuman, each of us carries great power within us, and when we are recognized by caring friends in community, we can awaken to our true potential and leap into inspired action like the enlightened monkeys we truly are! 

 

Thus, Hanuman sits at the center of the Hidden Temple, an elevating force to guide and support visitors towards personal and collective empowerment, tempered in reverence to that which is Greater.