Adishesha, also known as Shesha or Ananta, is a significant figure in Hindu mythology. He is depicted as a massive serpent with a thousand heads and serves as the couch upon which Lord Vishnu reclines. Here are some key stories and aspects of Adishesha in Hinduism:
1. Adishesha as Vishnu's Couch
Adishesha is often depicted as the divine serpent upon which Lord Vishnu reclines in the cosmic ocean. This imagery symbolizes his role as a supporter of the universe and the balance he maintains. His multiple heads represent his vigilance and eternal nature.
2. Churning of the Ocean (Samudra Manthan)
During the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), Adishesha played a crucial role. The gods and demons used him as the rope to churn the ocean, with Mount Mandara acting as the churning rod. Vishnu, in the form of Kurma (the tortoise), supported Mount Mandara on his back, ensuring the stability of the churning process.
3. Incarnations with Lord Vishnu
Adishesha is believed to incarnate on earth in conjunction with Lord Vishnu's avatars. Notably, he incarnated as Lakshmana, the brother of Lord Rama in the Ramayana, and as Balarama, the brother of Lord Krishna in the Mahabharata. These incarnations highlight his unwavering support and service to Vishnu.
4. Creation of Patala (Netherworld)
According to some traditions, Adishesha holds the seven worlds of Patala on his hoods. His stability and strength are seen as essential to the balance and support of these realms. This highlights his foundational role in the cosmos.
5. Story of Sage Patanjali
Sage Patanjali, the author of the Yoga Sutras, is often considered an incarnation of Adishesha. According to legend, he descended to earth to spread the knowledge of yoga and the Sanskrit language. This story emphasizes Adishesha's wisdom and his contributions to human spirituality and knowledge.
6. Adi Shesha and Lord Shiva
In some stories, Adishesha is closely associated with Lord Shiva as well. For instance, when Adishesha was unable to bear the weight of the world, he approached Lord Shiva for help. Shiva then danced the cosmic dance (Tandava) to reduce the burden on Adishesha, symbolizing the interconnectedness and balance between creation and destruction in the universe.
7. Vasuki and Adishesha
Vasuki, another significant serpent in Hindu mythology, is often considered the younger brother of Adishesha. While Adishesha serves Vishnu, Vasuki is closely associated with Shiva and played a key role in the churning of the ocean. Their stories highlight the complementary roles of these serpents in the divine order.
Symbolism and Reverence
Adishesha is revered not only for his strength and support but also for his association with Vishnu, one of the principal deities of Hinduism. His depiction with multiple heads and eternal nature symbolizes the infinite and cyclical nature of time and the universe.
These stories and aspects of Adishesha in Hindu mythology underscore his importance as a cosmic serpent and a key figure in the Hindu pantheon.