Description

In Hindu mythology, the sun is personified by the god Surya. He is one of the most important deities, considered the creator of the universe and the source of all life. Here’s a breakdown of Surya’s significance:

Names and Epithets: Surya has many names and epithets, reflecting his various aspects. Some prominent ones include Aditya, Arka, Bhanu, Savitr, Pushan, Ravi, Martanda, Mitra, Bhaskara, Prabhakara, and others.

Depiction: Surya is typically depicted as a radiant figure riding a chariot drawn by seven horses (representing the colors of the rainbow and the seven chakras). He holds lotuses in his hands and is often shown with Aruna, the personification of dawn, as his charioteer.

Power and Associations: Surya is associated with dispelling darkness, curing disease, and nurturing life through his warmth and light. He is considered the eye of the world and the king of the constellations.

Worship: While Surya was once a major deity with many temples dedicated to him (like the famous Konark Sun Temple), his worship as the supreme god is less common today. However, he is still revered and invoked by most Hindus. The Gayatri Mantra, a sacred chant recited daily at dawn, is addressed to the Sun.

Family: Surya is said to be the father of many important figures in Hindu mythology, including Manu (progenitor of humanity), Yama (god of death), the Ashvins (twin physicians of the gods), Karna (a warrior from the Mahabharata), and Sugriva (monkey king from the Ramayana).