The Lion Avatar: Protector of Dharma
This striking brass statue embodies Narasimha, the powerful and awe-inspiring fourth avatar of Lord Vishnu. Narasimha, meaning "man-lion," manifests to restore dharma (righteousness) and protect his devotees, particularly in moments of extreme adversity. This depiction, intricate despite its compact size, captures the raw power and divine grace of this extraordinary incarnation.
The Legend of Prahalada and Hiranyakashipu
The story of Narasimha is one of unwavering devotion and the triumph of good over evil. Hiranyakashipu, a powerful demon king, had been granted a boon that made him virtually invincible: he could not be killed by man or beast, indoors or outdoors, during the day or night, on earth or in the sky, or by any weapon. Arrogant and consumed by ego, Hiranyakashipu demanded that everyone worship him as God.
However, his own son, Prahalada, became a staunch devotee of Lord Vishnu, defying his father's orders. Enraged by his son's devotion, Hiranyakashipu subjected Prahalada to horrific tortures, all of which Prahalada endured with unwavering faith. Ultimately, Hiranyakashipu challenged Prahalada to prove that Vishnu was everywhere, even in a pillar in his palace.
In a moment of divine intervention, Vishnu burst forth from the pillar in the form of Narasimha. He was neither man nor beast, but a unique and terrifying combination. Narasimha seized Hiranyakashipu and carried him to the threshold of the palace (neither indoors nor outdoors), at twilight (neither day nor night), placed him on his lap (neither earth nor sky), and disemboweled him with his sharp claws (not a manufactured weapon), thus fulfilling all the conditions of the boon and vanquishing the demon king.- - - - - -
Details and Dimensions
Crafted from brass, this statue exudes an antique charm that enhances the visual impact of the deity. This rendition captures Narasimha in the act of vanquishing Hiranyakashipu. This imagery reinforces the message of divine power destroying evil and safeguarding those who are devoted. The statue is meticulously detailed with Narasimha's fierce expression, his regal adornments, and the intricate depiction of Hiranyakashipu lying on his lap.
Ideal for personal altars, meditation spaces, or as a meaningful decorative piece, this statue serves as a potent reminder of the strength of faith and the power of divine protection. This statue measures approximately 7.0 inches in height, 4.0 inches in width, and 3.0 inches in depth, making it suitable for various display settings. This statue is an excellent conversation piece and a reminder of the ever present powers of good.
Unleashing the Power of Narasimha: The Divine Avatar of Lord
Vishnu
Narasimha Dev is an incarnation of the Supreme Lord Vishnu or
Krishna. He assumed a special form of half-man (Nara) and
half-lion (Simha) to protect His five-year-old devotee Prahlad
from the ghastly attacks of his demoniac father Hiranyakashipu.
He killed the demon to prove that whoever is surrendered to His
lotus feet is always taken care of by Him. Lord Narasimha is
worshiped in many parts of South India and is considered an
important deity in the Vaishnava Sampradaya.
What does Narasimha symbolize?
Although the form of Lord Narasimha appears fierce to the
general people, it appears as beautiful and sweet as the lotus
flower to His devotees. His ferocious yet transcendental form
signifies His rage towards the demoniac persons who try to harm
or blaspheme His devotees who are very dear to Him. The devotees
always worship and remember Lord Narasimha in their minds
because He is the source of all bliss and fortune and is also
the cause of all causes. The Vaishnav Acharyas explain that the
Lord"s killing of Hiranyakashipu symbolizes the killing of
Anarthas such as lust, anger, greed, illusion, attachment, and
false ego residing in our hearts. One who has taken the shelter
of the lotus feet of Lord Narasimha is at once purified of all
contamination which is a barrier in Bhakti.
Which day is for Lord Narasimha?
Since Lord Narasimha is Vishnu Tattva, the Vaishnavas worship
Him and observe fasting from grains on Ekadashi which comes on
every 11th day in the Hindu or Vedic calendar. On this day, the
devotees either completely refrain from eating and drinking
anything (Nirjala) or only take grain-free Prasad for satisfying
their hunger. They chant the Lord"s holy names, visit temple,
and read His pastimes mentioned in the Vedic scriptures. Being
completely absorbed in the thoughts of the Lord, the devotees
peacefully observe the fast and remain blissful. Another very
important day dedicated to Lord Narasimha Dev is “Narasimha
Chaturdashi” which comes once a year. It is celebrated as the
appearance (His advent on this planet) day of the Lord. On this
day, the Vaishnavas congregate in the temples and chant His
unending glories and beg for His causeless mercy so that they
may eternally be engaged in His devotional service.
Where is Narasimha Swamy statue?
You can find many statues or deities of Lord Narasimha in
different states of India such as Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh,
Uttar Pradesh, etc. The most revered place for the Vaishnava
community is Ahobilam situated in the state of Andhra Pradesh.
This is the holy site where Lord Narasimha chose to appear from
a stone pillar indicating that He is present everywhere. The
Narasimha Swamy temple in Ahobilam is where all the nine forms
of Narasimha Dev are situated; Prahlad Varada Narasimha,
Chatravata Narasimha, Yogananda Narasimha, Ugra Narasimha, Kroda
Narasimha, Malola Narasimha, Jwala Narasimha, and Pavana
Narasimha. Thousands of people from across the globe visit this
temple to take the divine blessings of the Lord.
The Vedic scriptures such as Srimad Bhagavatam advise everyone
to worship and take the divine shelter of Lord Narasimha dev,
the Supreme Lord, in all circumstances, knowing that He is our
only hope. Those who do so experience the highest form of bliss
and never get bewildered even in adverse conditions of life.
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