Statue of Radha
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| Standing figure of Radha from Orissa, Bengal, India |
What is Love?
There are so many definitions of love; but what is it really? Is it simply strong affection as the dictionary states; a warm attachment, enthusiasm, or devotion? Is it attraction or desire; or is it the combination of all positive emotions – a sort of new age cornucopia? Maybe, the real question to be asked is not what love is, but whom; and when this is asked all sorts of answers emerge? Although you may know somebody who embodies love, world religions yield an astonishing number of deities governing love. Of these, one of the most prominent is the Hindu Goddess Radha, whose view of love is decidedly one-sided.
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| Carved in teak wood, this figure of Radha stands on a lotus base and is nearly 6 feet tall |
This week’s New Arrival features a large wooden statue of Radha. Meticulously carved from teak wood over 100 years ago, its age is less important than what it illustrates. In the Hindu world view – as in many other world views – love is a dual concept with two complementary halves, which might be called male and female. On the male side is Krishna, often referred to as the God of Love. In Indian mythology, Krishna bestows love to the world; yet, it must be returned to become manifest. Enter Radha; the female side. Add her to the equation and love is revealed as the two-way connection between giving and receiving.
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