The Abhasvaras, often referred to as Abhasuras, constitute a fascinating group of demigods or Deva ganas described in the Puranas, ancient Hindu texts. Their name, "Abhasvaras," translates to "the shining ones," indicating their association with illumination and enlightenment. Within Hindu tradition, these divine entities are believed to bestow blessings upon individuals, endowing them with various qualities essential for spiritual growth and inner development.
Comprising a total of 64 deities, the Abhasvaras are
considered personifications of different mental attributes and virtues. Among
these, twelve principal Abhasvaras hold particular significance, each
representing a fundamental aspect of consciousness and inner transformation:
Atma: Symbolizing the soul or the inner self, Atma
represents the core essence of individual existence and spiritual identity.
Jnata: Signifying the knower, Jnata embodies the faculty of
awareness and consciousness, enabling sentient beings to perceive and
comprehend reality.
Dama: Reflecting the quality of restraint or self-control,
Dama represents the ability to regulate impulses and desires, fostering inner
harmony and discipline.
Danta: Representing patience and forbearance, Danta
exemplifies the capacity to endure challenges and hardships with equanimity and
resilience.
Shanti: Symbolizing peace and tranquility, Shanti embodies
the serene state of inner calm and harmony, free from agitation and
disturbance.
Jnana: Signifying knowledge and wisdom, Jnana represents the
pursuit and attainment of spiritual insight and understanding, leading to
enlightenment and realization.
Sama: Reflecting tranquility and serenity, Sama embodies the
quality of mental equanimity and composure, enabling individuals to maintain
inner balance amidst external fluctuations.
Tapas: Symbolizing penance and austerity, Tapas signifies
the disciplined practice of self-mortification and spiritual endeavor, leading
to purification and spiritual growth.
Kama: Representing desire or longing, Kama embodies the
driving force behind human aspirations and endeavors, motivating individuals
towards self-improvement and fulfillment.
Krodha: Signifying anger or wrath, Krodha represents the
destructive aspect of human nature, which, when unchecked, leads to turmoil and
discord.
Mada: Reflecting intoxication or pride, Mada symbolizes the
egoistic tendencies that cloud the mind and hinder spiritual progress, leading
to delusion and ignorance.
Moha: Symbolizing delusion or attachment, Moha represents
the deceptive nature of worldly attractions and desires, which bind individuals
to the cycle of suffering and ignorance.
In Hindu spirituality, the worship and invocation of the
Abhasvaras are believed to facilitate the cultivation of these virtues and
qualities within oneself, leading to spiritual enlightenment and inner
transformation. Through their divine blessings, devotees aspire to transcend
the limitations of the material world and attain the ultimate goal of
self-realization and union with the divine.