With reference to Dashavatara Temple, what does the term Sheshashayana...
Dashavatara Temple and Sheshashayana
The Dashavatara Temple is a famous temple located in Deogarh, Uttar Pradesh, India. It is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is known for its beautiful sculptures and carvings. One of the significant sculptures found in this temple is that of Sheshashayana.
Sheshashayana: A form of Lord Vishnu reclining on the serpent
The term "Sheshashayana" refers to a specific form or aspect of Lord Vishnu, where he is depicted reclining on the serpent deity called Shesha. This form is also known as "Ananta-Shayana" or "Ananta-Sayi."
Depiction and Symbolism
The sculpture of Sheshashayana in the Dashavatara Temple portrays Lord Vishnu lying on his serpent bed, with his four hands holding his divine attributes. He is shown reclining on the coils of the serpent, with the serpent's multiple hoods acting as a canopy over Lord Vishnu's head.
This form of Lord Vishnu symbolizes his cosmic sleep or rest, as he rests on the serpent Shesha, who represents eternity and timelessness. The serpent is believed to uphold the entire universe on its hoods, with Lord Vishnu resting on it, signifying his role as the preserver of the universe.
Significance
Sheshashayana is a highly revered form of Lord Vishnu and holds great significance in Hindu mythology and philosophy. It represents the eternal and timeless nature of the universe and the divine rest of Lord Vishnu, who sustains and maintains the cosmic order.
The depiction of Lord Vishnu reclining on Shesha also symbolizes the preservation and protection of the universe during Lord Vishnu's cosmic slumber. It signifies the cyclical nature of creation, preservation, and dissolution that takes place in Hindu cosmology.
The Sheshashayana form of Lord Vishnu is often associated with the concept of "Yoganidra," which means the divine sleep or yogic sleep. It represents the state of divine consciousness and tranquility that Lord Vishnu embodies while he rests on the serpent.
In conclusion, the term "Sheshashayana" refers to a form of Lord Vishnu reclining on the serpent deity Shesha. This form holds deep symbolism related to the preservation and eternity of the universe, as well as Lord Vishnu's divine rest and consciousness.
With reference to Dashavatara Temple, what does the term Sheshashayana...
Sheshashayana: A form of Lord Vishnu reclining on the serpent
Dashavatara temple located in Deogarh. Following facts about the temple:
1. It’s a classic example of the late Gupta period temple architecture. (North India). Nagara Style Architecture.
2. Depicts Vishnu in various forms. 3 main Vishnu reliefs on the temple walls: Sheshashayana on the south; Nara-Narayan on the east; and Gajendramoksha on the west.
3. Sheshashayana is a form of Lord Vishnu reclining on the serpent
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