Padukas

The Guru's sandals, or padukas, represent the power of the Guru to uplift and transform us. The Indian scriptures tell us that the fountain of grace which God pours upon humanity actually flows through the feet of the great beings. Thus, the sandals of the Master are regarded with reverence. The esoteric meaning of this powerful symbol is beautifully expounded in Swami Kripananda's book The Guru's Sandals: Threshold of the Formless, which explores the essential mystery at its heart. The significance and power of the Guru's sandals are also expressed in Shri Guru Paduka Panchakam, the five verses which are sung just before each recitation of Shri Guru Gita.