Invisible barriers

The northeast has a fascinating geographical feature. Cherrapunji, one of the wettest places on Earth, receives heavy annual rainfall. But Shillong, located just about 54 km away, receives considerably less rainfall. The topography of the Khasi Hills explains this striking contrast and influences rainfall distribution in the region.

This geographical phenomenon reminds one of a beautiful spiritual metaphor from the Gospel of Sri Ramakrishna. During their exile, Ram, Sita and Lakshman walked one behind the other, in that order. Ram represents God, Lakshman the individual soul, and Sita, who stands between them, represents maya, divine illusion. Although Ram was only a short distance ahead, Lakshman could not see him clearly because Sita stood between them. Lakshman could behold the Lord only when Sita moved aside. This metaphor conveys a profound spiritual truth: although God is always near us, maya may veil His presence.

In Gita, 7. 25, Lord Krishn declares: 'I am not manifest to everyone, being veiled by my divine Yogmaya energy. Hence, those without knowledge do not know that I am without birth and changeless.'


The rain may be likened to divine grace, while the hills symbolise barriers between us and the experience of that grace. Maya, too, prevents us from recognising the divine presence ever so close to us.