In Hindu iconography, the veena, a stringed musical instrument, holds significant symbolic meaning when held by gods and goddesses. Here are some of the key aspects of its symbolism:
Saraswati:
Goddess of Knowledge, Music, Arts, and Wisdom: Saraswati is
often depicted holding a veena, symbolizing her mastery over all forms of
knowledge and the arts. The veena represents the harmonious interplay of
knowledge and art.
Harmony and Creativity: The veena, with its melodious tunes,
represents the creative expression and the arts. It signifies the balance
between intellectual and artistic pursuits, suggesting that true wisdom
incorporates both logic and creativity.
Spiritual Sound: In a broader spiritual context, the sound
of the veena is thought to represent the cosmic sound, the fundamental
vibration of the universe, often referred to as 'Nada Brahma'.
Narada:
Divine Sage and Musician: Narada, a revered sage, and a
devotee of Lord Vishnu, is often shown with a veena. His veena symbolizes his
devotion, wisdom, and his role as a divine messenger and musician.
Spreading Divine Knowledge: Narada's veena also represents
the dissemination of divine knowledge and the power of music to convey
spiritual truths and messages from the gods.
Shiva (in the form of Veena Dhara):
Master of Music and Dance: In some depictions, Shiva is
shown holding or playing a veena, emphasizing his role as Nataraja, the Lord of
Dance and Music. It signifies the integral role of music in cosmic balance and
divine rhythm.
Destruction and Creation: The veena in Shiva's hands can
also symbolize the cyclical nature of creation and destruction, harmonizing the
cosmic functions.
Devi or Shakti:
Universal Energy: Sometimes, aspects of the goddess Shakti
are depicted with a veena, symbolizing the creative and sustaining aspects of
the universe, governed by divine feminine energy.
Empowerment through Arts: The veena signifies empowerment
through knowledge, music, and arts, essential aspects of life governed by the
divine feminine.
In summary, the veena in the hands of Hindu deities is a powerful symbol of knowledge, arts, harmony, spiritual sound, and the cosmic balance. It underscores the importance of integrating intellectual and creative pursuits and the divine nature of music and arts in human life.