Pushan is a Vedic deity and was of great importance in the
Vedic period. Pushan is described in the Vedas as the lord of all things, the
guardian of all and the lord of the roads. It is also believed that He is the deity
who shows light to the dead in their journey to the next world – this is
mentioned in the Atharva Veda.
The term Pushan means to prosper, grow and thrive. He was
also given the title – Pashupa, protector of or animals. He is also known as
Vimucho napat and Vimochana.
It is mentioned in the Rig Veda that the deity protects
cattle, horses, and other domestic animals. He blesses in easy weaving and
smoothening the wool of sheep. He also helps in locating hidden and lost
things. He guards the roads and is prayed for protection while traveling. In
both Grihya and Shrauta sutras, prayers are offered to Pushan before any
journey.
Pushan married daughter of Surya, the sun god. He is also a
messenger of Surya and helper of Savitrs.
Pushan has a braided hair and a beard. He carries golden
spear along with a goad. He has a chariot drawn by goats. He also has golden
ships that move in air.
Pushan is also the name of one of the Adityas in the
Mahabharata and the Puranas.
Like all Vedic deities, Pushan too lost prominence in later
years.