Snake (referred as nagas) is an important symbol in
Hinduism. The symbolism attached to the serpents are of eternity, fertility and
regeneration. They are the protector of the universe. The popular belief is
that 1000-headed snake Ananta is holding the earth. “Ananta, the Lord of
serpents, supports the Earth with its mountain and forests.” – states the third
chapter of Hatha Yoga Pradipika.
Ananta is regarded as an emblem of eternity. The divine
1000-headed serpent is believed to be supporting the seven nether worlds below
and the seven aerial regions above.
Ananta Sesha means that which remains after dissolution of the universe. Srihari Vishnu the seed of creation rests atop it.
Ananta Sesha means that which remains after dissolution of the universe. Srihari Vishnu the seed of creation rests atop it.
The prominence of worship of nagas is based on the belief
that snakes do not die but they shed their skins and emerge as new. This
eternity of snakes became a symbolism. This ageless quality of the serpent is
known as Ananta – never ending.
Snake is a symbol of eternity, fertility and regeneration in
Hinduism. It is the symbol of wisdom too. The snake is depicted with good and
bad deeds of man. The snake is poisonous but its venom is medicinal too.
Similarly anger, lust, etc are poisonous. We have to convert our nature and
develop the opposite qualities such as quietness, control or continence, love,
contentment and so on.
(Source - Astadala Yogamala, Volume 5 By Yogacharya B.K.S.
Iyengar)