In Hinduism, most of the Gods have their own vahan, which is usually an animal. The connection between Hindu Gods, creatures, and nature is shown in their vahanas. Vahan, or the vehicles of the Gods, are traditionally animals or birds. The sacred animals in Hindu mythology are not just modes of transport for the gods; they also have much to teach humans.
Through the blog right here, you will be able to learn about the six powerful Hindu gods and their vahanas.
Hindu Gods and their Vahans
1. Lord Shiva and Nandi
Amongst all the mythological animals of the Gods, Nandi is known as one of the most devoted and faithful to Lord Shiva. Nandi holds a very sacred place in Hinduism. In every Shiva temple, a Nandi is always placed near Lord Shiva's Idol. He represents faith, devotion, and discipline. Furthermore, it is said that if you want to make any of your wishes come true, then you must whisper it in the years of Nandi. Nandi gives the direct message to Lord Shiva.
2. Goddess Durga and Lion
Maa Durga's vahana is the lion. The lion is one of the most famous Hindu god vehicles and represents courage and strength. Goddess Durga and the lion are both known for courage. When Goddess Durga rides her lion, she puts an end to evil. These evils include anger, fear, and ego. There are idols of Durga Maa sitting on a lion, not only in temples but also in homes. The symbolism of Hindu vahanas teaches individuals always to exercise wisdom in their actions and to use their emotions appropriately.
3. Lord Vishnu and Garuda
We cannot miss talking about Lord Vishnu and his vahan, Garuda, among the Hindu deities and their animals. Bronze Garuda Idol is known for his loyalty towards Lord Vishnu. Furthermore, he is also known for his bravery. Garuda has been a central figure in various Hindu stories.
In various stories of Gods and animals, we have read about how Garuda has saved the devotees of Lord Vishnu from danger. Moreover, the spiritual meaning of vahanas here is to attain freedom from the desires of the world and to cultivate devotion towards God.
4. Lord Ganesha and the Mouse
Another vehicle of God is the mouse or mushak. He is the vehicle of Lord Ganesha. The secret behind the mouse being the vehicle of Lord Ganesha is that when Ganesha sits on the mouse, he can control unwanted thoughts. This is a way to teach humans that even the smallest creatures can lead a life with wisdom if they move ahead with discipline. Furthermore, Lord Ganesha and the mouse have an excellent relationship. One must learn to control one's desires.
5. Lord Kartikeya and Peacock
Lord Kartikeya, the son of Lord Shiva, has a peacock as his vehicle. Peacock represents both beauty and pride. A peacock is a bird that is known for eliminating negative thoughts. A lot of pride is not considered a very positive thing. However, Kartikeya's control over the peacock shows victory over ego and arrogance.
6. Goddess Saraswati and Swan
The Swan is the vahan of the goddess Saraswati. Saraswati Ji blesses her devotees with knowledge and wisdom. A swan is known to have the ability to separate milk from water. This means it is a way to learn to see the reality and truth behind this illusion clearly. Moreover, Goddess Saraswati and her vehicle serve as a reminder that one must always maintain clarity of thought, rather than just indulging in rote learning. In Hinduism, the Swan teaches humans the value of pure thoughts.
Why Do Vahanas Hold Such Value in Hinduism?
We have seen that the vehicles, or vahanas, of the Hindu gods are more than just ordinary animals or creatures. Each animal teaches humankind things. Courage, wisdom, purity, or control over emotions are the few things that the sacred Vahans of Hindu Gods teach us.
Furthermore, devotees can learn not just from the Gods they worship, such as Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha, Lord Kartikeya and Lord Vishnu, but also from their sacred vehicles. Additionally, these animals are a reminder that each human being should have faith and devotion towards God. Faith will help us navigate the most difficult times of life with ease.
