Significance of King of serpents
The concept of King of serpents is explored across various religious traditions, including Jainism, Vaishnavism, Purana, Kavya, Dharmashastra, and Theravada. In these contexts, it signifies authority and power among serpents, often associated with celestial figures like Lord Krishna and Lord Balarama. The title encapsulates attributes of grandeur, leadership, and protective qualities, highlighting the divine significance of serpents in mythology. Notable figures include Shesha, Takshaka, and Vasuki, symbolizing their majestic roles in mythological narratives and spiritual practices.
Synonyms: Serpent king, Dragon, Naga, Snake god, Lord of serpents
In Dutch: Koning der slangen; In Finnish: Käärmeiden kuningas
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'King of serpents'
In Buddhism, the King of serpents symbolizes leadership and authority, representing the Serpent-King's ultimate dominance and influence among serpents, highlighting themes of power and hierarchical structures within the spiritual context.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The title of the Serpent-King, denoting his leadership and power among serpents.[1]
Hindu concept of 'King of serpents'
In Hinduism, the "King of Serpents" symbolizes divine strength and authority, referencing deities like Ratnacuda, Takshaka, and Shesha, highlighting their protective roles, regal status, and significance in cosmic balance and spiritual rituals.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) An alternative title for Vasuki, indicating his status among serpents, involved in the churning process.[2] (2) Vasuki, symbolizing royalty among serpents, is draped as a sacred thread indicating its importance in spiritual or yogic practices.[3] (3) A metaphorical reference indicating strong binding or control, possibly related to deceptive forces in the cosmos.[4] (4) The supreme ruler within the serpentine hierarchy, who mourns the loss of his son Rudramala.[5] (5) Takshaka, who plays a pivotal role in aiding Candrangada after his drowning and providing him with gifts and guidance.[6]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) Kalya, a powerful serpent residing in the lake that Krishna aims to vanquish.[7] (2) Dhumavarna, the king of serpents, captured Yadu and took him to his ornate underwater city.[8] (3) Kalya, a formidable serpent who emerged in response to Krishna's disruptive action in the lake.[9] (4) Takshaka, recognized as the king of the serpents.[10] (5) Ananta, the deity being worshipped, who is characterized by his power and divine status.[11]
From: Padma Purana
(1) Refers to the serpent that will encircle the Mandara mountain during its churning in the ocean.[12] (2) A significant figure in the churning of the ocean, likely referring to the serpent used as a rope to churn the ocean.[13]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) Vasuki, the serpent who was invited by gods and demons to assist in the churning of the ocean for nectar.[14]
From: Agni Purana
(1) Takshaka is acknowledged in this title, representing authority over serpentine creatures.[15]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) Refers to Shesha, a powerful and majestic serpent residing at the extreme end of Patala.[16]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) Kaliya, the potent serpent who controlled Krishna and symbolized danger in the Yamuna River.[17]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Vasuki, the ruler of the Nagas, who plays a role in Bhima's recovery and offers him strength, representing the alliance between divine beings and the heroes.[18]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Refers to Lord Shesha, who is considered the most glorious among snakes.[19] (2) A title referring to Lord Shesha, who is noted for his authority among serpents in the mythological context.[20] (3) He is the king of serpents (phanishvara, and phani).[21] (4) A reference to Lord Balarama, indicating his supreme status among serpents and signifying his protective qualities.[22] (5) The ruler who fathered the apsaras, referenced in the text.[23]
From: Gobhila-grihya-sutra
(1) A deity or entity to whom offerings (Balis) are made during the Shravana ceremony.[24]
From: Khadira-grihya-sutra
(1) A title used in mantras, referring to a deity or powerful being to whom offerings are made during rituals.[25]
From: Harsha-charita
(1) A powerful symbol or divine being representing authority within the serpent class.[26]
Jain concept of 'King of serpents'
In Jainism, the term "King of serpents" metaphorically highlights Hanumat's long, strong arms, symbolizing majesty and grandeur, reflecting both their impressive physical attributes and a regal demeanor.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A metaphorical expression used to describe Hanumat's arms, emphasizing their impressive length and strength.[27] (2) Describes the long and fleshy arms, implying a sense of majesty and grandeur.[28]