Significance of Moon-god
The Moon-god holds significant status across various texts in Vaishnavism, Purana, Ayurveda, and Mahayana. In Vaishnavism, he symbolizes lineage, particularly within the kshatriya dynasty, and is identified with the deity Candra. The Moon-god also appears in Purana as a divine entity involved in multiple narratives, including appeasing anger and installing a Linga, alongside experiencing curses and seeking blessings. Additionally, he represents illumination and tranquility, reinforcing his integral role within Hindu mythology and cultural practices.
Synonyms: Moon deity, Chandra
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Moon-god'
In Buddhism, the Moon-god symbolizes the revered lunar deity recognized by Indian Brahmins, reflecting the moon's significance in spiritual practices and its association with enlightenment and serenity in Buddhist literature.
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) A designation for the moon as revered by the Indian Brahmins.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Moon-god'
The Moon-god in Hinduism, also known as Candra or Soma, embodies various roles as a celestial deity connected to tranquility, family lineage, and divine narratives, reflecting themes of curse, redemption, and worship throughout mythology.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) Refers to the deity associated with the Moon who performed a pilgrimage at Svargadvara and established the Tirtha's significance.[2] (2) A celestial deity who communicates with Sati about Daksha's sacrifice, showing the interconnectedness of divine beings.[3] (3) A divine entity responsible for the creation of a lake mentioned in the text.[4] (4) Also known as Soma or Candra, he is the Lord of the night who became afflicted by Daksha’s curse and lost his splendor.[5] (5) Soma, who achieved his original glory through the worship of Someshvara Linga and is depicted in the narrative as having been cursed and later reconceived.[6]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) The divine personality born from Atri, leading to the birth of Pururava and his descendants.[7] (2) A celestial deity worshipped on the tenth day, believed to grant favors or blessings to the votary.[8] (3) A divine figure who is the consort of Tara and father to Budha.[9]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The deity who addressed the Pracetasas to appease their anger at the trees, emphasizing the importance of protecting them.[10] (2) The celestial being who wedded twenty-seven daughters bestowed upon him.[11]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) Identified as Soma, he is linked with the holy centre Saumya and plays a part in the narrative events.[12] (2) The extremely energetic son of Atri, known for learning the Vedas and archery from Brihaspati.[13]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) A celestial deity associated with the moon, representing illumination and tranquility.[14]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Candra, the deity associated with the moon, whose form influenced some of the appearances of the Vaikuntha residents.[15] (2) the representation of Candra, with whom devotees may identify through their billowed worship.[16]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) A divine figure in Hindu mythology, symbolizing lineage in context, particularly related to the kshatriya dynasty.[17] (2) The deity associated with the moon, who became free from disease by bathing at Prabhasa-tirtha.[18]
From: Sushruta Samhita, Volume 6: Uttara-tantra
(1) A divine figure that, due to his actions and the wrath of his father-in-law, experienced Phthisis, becoming emaciated and necessitating medical treatment.[19]