Embodying Divine Serenity and Protection
This exquisite brass statue captures the majestic presence of Lord Vishnu, the preserver and protector of the universe, in a posture of profound peace and divine contemplation. Seated upon Sheshnag, the king of all serpents, Vishnu embodies a state of transcendental repose amidst the cosmic waters. Sheshnag, with his many heads forming a protective canopy, symbolizes the infinite expanse of time and the eternal nature of the divine. This iconography is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology, where Vishnu is depicted resting on Sheshnag, representing the cyclical nature of creation, sustenance, and dissolution, with Vishnu always present as the underlying reality.
A Symbol of Cosmic Power and Grace
The radiant brass finish of this statue imbues it with a celestial glow, reflecting the divine light of Vishnu. Lord Vishnu is depicted with four arms, each holding symbolic objects of immense power and significance. In one hand, he holds his divine discus, the Sudarshana Chakra, representing his ability to destroy evil and uphold righteousness. Another hand grasps the divine mace, the Kaumodaki, a symbol of his strength and authority. The other two hands are often depicted in blessings (Abhaya Mudra) and bestowing grace (Varada Mudra), signifying his benevolence and protection towards his devotees. The intricate details in the casting, from the finely rendered scales of Sheshnag to the serene expression on Vishnu's face, speak to the artistry and devotion poured into its creation.
Cultural Significance and Artistic Excellence
This representation of Vishnu on Sheshnag is one of the most revered and iconic depictions of the deity in Hinduism. It signifies his role as the supreme being who governs the universe from the cosmic ocean, a realm beyond the mundane world. The serpent, Sheshnag, is also known as Ananta, meaning endless, and is believed to carry all the universes on his hoods. This statue serves as a powerful reminder of Vishnu's omnipresence and his role in maintaining cosmic order. The craftsmanship evident in this brass piece makes it not just a religious artifact but also a work of art, capable of bringing an aura of divinity and tranquility to any space it adorns. Whether placed in a home altar, a meditation room, or as a statement piece in your living area, this statue is a testament to enduring faith and artistic mastery.
Sheshnag: The Divine Vehicle of Lord Vishnu and its Symbolic
Significance
According to the Vedic scriptural injunctions, Lord Vishnu is
the Supreme Lord, the protector of all living entities, and the
cause of all causes. Just like the pastimes and names of Lord
Vishnu are transcendental, His form is also transcendental,
above and beyond the three modes of material nature. He bears
four hands that carry a lotus flower, a conch shell, a discus
(the Sudarshan Chakra, and a club. Although Lord Vishnu is above
the effects of the three modes of material nature, He is the
predominating deity of the mode of goodness (Sattva Guna) and
thus maintains the entire material world.
Which snake does Lord Vishnu sleep on?
You may have seen the beautiful images, deities, and paintings
of Lord Vishnu portrayed as reclined on a coil of the body of a
big snake in the middle of the ocean of milk (Ksheer Sagar). It
has multiple hoods spread across the entire body of the Lord,
giving Him all protection. This snake is not an ordinary one but
is the eternal servitor of the Lord and is called Sheshanag or
Anantashesha. Whenever and wherever there is a decline in
religious activities and a predominant increase in
irreligiosity, the Lord appears to re-establish the principles
of Dharma. But He does not come alone. He comes with His eternal
associates that serve Him in different forms of loving exchanges
in Vaikuntha. For example, when Lord Krishna, the Supreme
Personality of Godhead, appeared on the earth in Dwapar Yuga,
Sheshanag came in the form of Lord Balaram with him.
What does Vishnu sculpture symbolize?
As stated by Lord Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita, He appears in
the material world to protect His devotees and to kill the
miscreants. The Lord is very merciful to every living entity but
those who have taken His shelter and engage in His loving
devotional service are especially taken care of by Him. The
devotees worship and serve the deity of the Lord with all their
hearts. In this way, they develop genuine affection and love for
the Lord. The Lord being situated in the hearts of all living
entities as Supersoul (Paramatma), also reciprocates with His
devotees and gives them the highest form of bliss. The deity of
the all-powerful and all-merciful Lord Vishnu is the symbol of
purity and love. It is not just a piece of stone, metal, or
wood, but is the Lord Himself.
What is the power of Sheshnag?
The Vedic scriptures mention that Sheshnag is the immediate
expansion of Lord Vishnu who serves Him with pure devotion. The
Acharyas in the path of Bhakti also explain that Sheshnag
represents the Guru Tattva. Without the mercy of Guru, the
living entity cannot attain the lotus feet of the Supreme Lord.
Sheshnag comes in the form of Balaram or Lakshman in the
pastimes of Lord Krishna and Lord Ram respectively. Without
pleasing Balaram, one cannot understand the nature of Lord
Krishna, or without pleasing Lakshman, one cannot know Lord Ram.
Similarly, if one wants to serve Lord Vishnu, the mercy of
Sheshnag is needed. When it is achieved, Lord Vishnu, without
any delay, accepts even a fallen soul and gives Him liberation
from all kinds of suffering. Such is the power of Sheshnag.
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