Sesha

Sesha, also known as Shesha, is a significant figure in Hindu mythology, particularly within the Vaishnavism tradition. Sesha is often depicted as a massive serpent with multiple heads, typically ranging from five to a thousand. This divine serpent is revered as the king of all nagas (serpents) and serves as the bed for the god Vishnu, who reclines on Sesha in the cosmic ocean.

Etymology and Names

The name "Sesha" is derived from the Sanskrit word "śeṣa," which means "remainder" or "residue." This name signifies Sesha's role in the cosmic cycle, as he remains after the dissolution of the universe. Sesha is also known by other names such as Ananta, meaning "endless" or "infinite," highlighting his eternal nature.

Mythological Significance

Sesha holds a crucial place in Hindu cosmology and theology. According to the Puranas, Sesha is one of the primal beings of creation, born from the churning of the ocean of milk. He is often depicted with multiple heads, each adorned with a crown, and his body forms the bed upon which Vishnu reclines during the intervals between cosmic cycles.

Role in Creation

In Hindu cosmology, Sesha plays a vital role in the creation and maintenance of the universe. He is said to support the entire cosmos on his hoods, and his movements cause earthquakes. Sesha's primary function is to serve as the bed for Vishnu, who rests on him during the periods of cosmic dissolution (pralaya). This imagery signifies the stability and support that Sesha provides to the universe.

Association with Vishnu

Sesha's association with Vishnu is one of the most well-known aspects of his mythology. Vishnu, one of the principal deities of Hinduism, is often depicted reclining on Sesha in the cosmic ocean, with the goddess Lakshmi massaging his feet. This depiction symbolizes the preservation aspect of Vishnu, with Sesha representing the eternal foundation upon which the universe rests.

Iconography

Sesha is typically depicted as a massive serpent with multiple heads, often five or seven, but sometimes as many as a thousand. His heads are usually crowned, and his body is coiled to form a comfortable bed for Vishnu. In some depictions, Sesha is shown with a human-like torso and multiple serpent heads, emphasizing his divine and otherworldly nature.

Textual References

Sesha is mentioned in various Hindu scriptures, including the Mahabharata, Ramayana, and several Puranas. In the Mahabharata, Sesha is described as the eldest son of Kadru, the mother of serpents, and the sage Kashyapa. He is also mentioned in the Ramayana, where he is said to have incarnated as Lakshmana, the younger brother of Rama.

Puranic Accounts

The Puranas provide detailed accounts of Sesha's origins and his role in the cosmic order. According to the Vishnu Purana, Sesha was born from the churning of the ocean of milk, a significant event in Hindu mythology. The Bhagavata Purana describes Sesha as an expansion of Vishnu himself, emphasizing his divine nature and eternal existence.

Symbolism

Sesha's multiple heads and immense size symbolize his infinite nature and his role as the eternal support of the universe. His association with Vishnu highlights the interconnectedness of creation, preservation, and dissolution in Hindu cosmology. Sesha's presence in various myths and legends underscores the importance of stability and support in the cosmic order.

Worship and Cultural Impact

Sesha is revered in various forms across different regions of India. In some traditions, he is worshipped as a deity in his own right, while in others, he is venerated as an aspect of Vishnu. Temples dedicated to Vishnu often feature depictions of Sesha, and his imagery is prevalent in Hindu art and architecture.

Temples and Festivals

Several temples dedicated to Vishnu feature prominent depictions of Sesha. The Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Kerala is one of the most famous temples where Vishnu is depicted reclining on Sesha. Festivals such as Naga Panchami celebrate the worship of serpents, including Sesha, and involve rituals and offerings to honor these divine beings.

Modern Interpretations

In contemporary Hinduism, Sesha continues to be a symbol of stability and support. His imagery is often used in various forms of art, literature, and popular culture to represent the eternal and unchanging nature of the cosmos. Modern interpretations of Sesha also emphasize his role in maintaining the balance and harmony of the universe.