The Transcendental Form of Sammohana Shasta
Within the expansive traditions of the Ashta Sastha—the eight primary manifestations of Lord Shasta—Sammohana Shasta stands as a unique and captivating form. He represents the pinnacle of divine attraction, not in a mundane or worldly sense, but as the spiritual force that draws all souls toward the ultimate truth. The name "Sammohana" translates to "one who completely enchants" or "the supreme attractor," signifying that the entire universe is naturally pulled toward his benevolent grace.
In this specific manifestation, Sammohana Shasta is depicted with his two consorts, Purna and Pushkala. This triad represents the perfect equilibrium of energies: Purna symbolizes fulfillment and completeness, while Pushkala signifies prosperity and abundance. Together, they illustrate the Householder (Grihastha) aspect of the deity, showing that spiritual liberation and worldly well-being can coexist in harmony.
Scriptural Descriptions and Iconography
The Dhyana Ratnavali, a profound text of Agamic and Tantric significance, provides the meditative framework for visualizing this deity. He is described as having a complexion that glows with divine radiance, rarely seated upon a white elephant. The white elephant is a symbol of royalty, wisdom, and the purification of the mind (Manas).
Sammohana Shasta is four-armed, and each hand holds a deep symbolic meaning:
Lower Right Hand (Varada Mudra): This is the gesture of granting boons. It signifies his readiness to fulfill the righteous desires of his devotees and offer protection.
Upper Right Hand (Pushpa/Flowers): He holds fragrant flowers, representing the five senses and the blossoming of devotion within the heart.
Upper Left Hand (Sugar Cane): The sugar cane bow (Ikshu Dhanus) is a common symbol in Shakta and Shaiva traditions. It represents the mind, which can be brittle but provides the "juice" of experience. It also signifies the sweetness of divine love.
Lower Left Hand (Kapala): The skull-bowl or Kapala represents the ego and the physical vessel. By holding it, the Lord indicates that he accepts the surrendered ego of the devotee, transforming mortality into immortality.
Spiritual Significance and Symbolism
The concept of Sammohana in Hindu history is closely linked to the "Mohini" aspect of the divine. As the son of Shiva and Vishnu (in the form of Mohini), Shasta embodies the union of knowledge (Jnana) and Maya (Illusion/Grace).
In the Shiva Purana, the essence of Shasta’s birth is described as the unification of the two greatest forces of the universe. When he takes the form of Sammohana Shasta, he uses the power of "attraction" to redirect the wandering mind away from temporary sensory pleasures and toward the eternal bliss of the Self. He is the "Preceptor of the World" who enchants us only to lead us to the Truth.
The Rare Murti and Worship
While many Sastha temples depict the deity as a celibate warrior or a yogi, shrines dedicated specifically to Sammohana Shasta are rare and highly sought after by those seeking marital harmony and the resolution of internal conflicts. A notable rare murti of this form can be found in certain ancient temples in Tamil Nadu and Kerala, where the intricate carving displays the Lord in a relaxed, regal posture (Sukhasana) with Purna and Pushkala by his side, exuding a sense of profound peace and magnetic charm.
Devotees believe that meditating on this form helps in "Indriya Nigraha" (control of the senses) because the beauty of the Lord is so great that it makes the attractions of the material world seem pale in comparison.