Word of the Day: leela

definition:

lIlA f. (derivation doubtful) play , sport , diversion , amusement , pastime MBh. Ka1v. &c. ; mere sport or play , child’s play , ease or facility in doing anything ib. ; mere appearance , semblance , pretence , disguise , sham Ka1v. Katha1s. Pur. (ibc. sportively , easily , in sport , as a mere joke [903,3] ; also = %{lIlayA} ind. for mere diversion , feignedly) ; grace , charm , beauty , elegance , lovelniess Ka1lid. Katha1s. Ra1jat. ; (in rhet.) a maiden’s playful imitation of her lover , Dalar. Sa1h. Prata1p. ; a kind of metre (4 times $) Col. ; N. of a Yogini HParis3.

This word comes to mind often when I do a chart. Each person’s life seems to be a beautiful incredibly well written Shakespearean-level play, “mere sport” to the jiiva beneath.

I think the subdefinition “a maiden’s playful imitation of her lover ” is also important.

Krishna and the gopis are a beautiful example of a celestial love affair. Krishna, in charge of the leela, is graciously allowing our ultimate attempts at imitation of Him. It’s a beautiful thing, and the play is beautiful to witness in chart readings and in life.