The Sweat Lodge or Temascal was developed as a ceremonial way of prayer to
connect with higher frequencies, to purify the body and mind, and to uplift
the spirit. It is an ancient and pure sweatlodge copalmedicine, a temple to
honor the elements of earth, fire, water and air. The Temascal has gradually
become a regular Moksham tradition, taking place more or less six times annumly.
by the river.
Moksham has adopted the ceremony as it was passed on, the community members
respecting and honoring the ways and instructions.
The Sweatlodge is a small, round, closed structure. Red hot rocks are placed
in a center pit and medicinal herbs are added.
Water is poured on the rocks
which produce a steam that purifies and heals. The symbolism of the steam and
the structure of the sweat lodge represent the womb, life's starting place.
It has developed in the form of a ceremony, working respectfully with the
essential elements (water, fire, air and earth) to create a powerful
purification on all levels. It provides the possibility of expansion that
allows us to directly connect with the Great Spirit. Silence, prayer and
tribal music support the journey.
To the Native Americans the Sweatlodge symbolized the womb of Grandmother
Earth and the heated stones represented her body, which supports all life.
The fire used to heat the rocks represented the light of the world, and the
source of all life and power.The leader opens the Sweatlodge ceremony with words
of intention, drum beats and songs, pouring water over the rocks. Each
participant can offer personal prayers for self, others, in gratitude or for
releasing all sorts of pains.
A Sweatlodge typically lasts four "doors" or rounds, to the four directions,
represented with colors, spirit guides and different elements.
Between rounds, more hot stones are brought in and the heat is built gradually
until it reaches a certain peak.At the end of the Sweatlodge, participants
leave the lodge in a respectful manner.
