In Hinduism, crocodiles are not as commonly featured as symbols compared to some other animals, but they do appear in certain contexts with symbolic significance. One notable instance is the association of crocodile with the goddess Ganga in Hindu scriptures. Another famous incident involving crocodile is in the Gajendra Moksham.
Ganga, the River Goddess: According to Hindu scriptures, the
Ganges River is personified as the goddess Ganga. In some narratives, it is
said that Ganga rides on the back of a crocodile. This symbolism might
represent the unpredictable and powerful nature of the river. The crocodile,
being a formidable creature in the water, underscores the force and majesty of
the Ganges.
Makara in Hindu Art and Symbolism: The term
"Makara" is often used in Hindu art and symbolism to represent a
mythical sea creature that is a composite of various animals, including a
crocodile. The Makara is sometimes depicted as a water monster or a
crocodile-like creature with an elephant trunk. It is often associated with
water deities and is a symbol of the aquatic realm.
Astrological Symbolism: In Vedic astrology, Makara is the zodiac
sign of Capricorn. The term "Makara" here is associated with a
crocodile or sea creature, and the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign
of Capricorn is considered auspicious. This event is often celebrated as a
festival, marking the end of winter and the beginning of longer days.
Crocodile in Gajendra Moksha: Gajendra Moksham is a
significant episode in Hindu scriptures, narrated in the Bhagavata Purana. The
story revolves around Gajendra, the king of elephants, who, while enjoying his
life in a beautiful lake, is seized by a crocodile. Despite his immense
strength, Gajendra finds himself helpless against the relentless grip of the
crocodile.
Symbolically, the crocodile represents the inevitable
suffering and challenges that one encounters in the earthly life. Gajendra,
immersed in the pleasures of his kingdom, symbolizes individuals who become
engrossed in the material aspects of life, often forgetting the spiritual
dimension.
The allegory teaches a profound lesson about the transient
nature of worldly happiness and the inevitability of facing adversity. When
confronted with the crisis in the form of the crocodile, Gajendra's relatives
and friends abandon him, highlighting the fleeting nature of worldly
relationships. This emphasizes the isolation that one might feel in times of
distress, where external support seems to vanish.
The turning point in the story comes when Gajendra realizes
the futility of relying solely on worldly attachments and turns his attention
towards the divine. In his desperate hour, he calls upon Bhagavan Vishnu for
help. Bhagavan, moved by Gajendra's sincere surrender, arrives to rescue him.
This episode underscores the significance of seeking refuge in God during times
of crisis and recognizing the impermanence of worldly pleasures.
The overarching message of Gajendra Moksham is a spiritual one – reminding individuals to prioritize the eternal connection with the divine over transient material pursuits. It encourages a deeper reflection on the impermanence of life and the importance of turning towards a higher power for solace and liberation from the cycle of suffering.
It's important to note that the symbolism of animals in
Hinduism can vary across different traditions and interpretations. While
crocodiles may not be as prominently featured as some other animals in Hindu
mythology, their association with specific deities and symbols underscores
their symbolic significance in the cultural and religious context.