Pusan is one of the names of Surya, the sun god in Hinduism.
It is considered to be the sixth name of the sun god. The name pusan is recited
during surya namaskara and while offering prayers. He is praised in the Rig
Veda in numerous hymns. Also known as Pusa, he is one of the twelve aspects of the Sun, known as the Adityas or Dwadasa Adityas. He represents the nourishing and life-supporting aspect of the Sun. He is exceedingly beautiful. He wears a cakra or a discus with which he destroys the evil ones. He is ever eager to protect his votaries. He looks upon all with an equal eye and is very generous. He has been eulogised in eight suktas of the Rgveda (3.62.9; 6.53.3; 6.58.3; 10.17.5).
According to pauranic legends, he was present at the sacrifice of Daksa. When Virabhadra, an emanation from Rudra/Siva, attacked and destroyed Daksa’s sacrifice, Pusan was one of the victims who lost his teeth (vide Bhagavata 4.5.21).
Pusan means one who nourishes. He is the protector of all beings. He nourishes and protect
all living begins including cattle. Pusan is also referred as the brother of Indra. He is offered prayers in the Vedas to bring back horses,
cows, sheep and other livestocks. He is also offered prayers to keep livestocks away from
diseases and injuries. Pusan also drives away enemies and brings their wealth.
Apart from Rig Veda, chants dedicated to Pusan are found in
Asvalayana Grihyasutra and Samkhayana Grihyasutra.