Significance of Mrigashirsha
Mrigashirsha holds various significances across different Hindu texts. In Hinduism, it is an asterism associated with excellence, linked to Prajapati's head. In Shilpashastra, it identifies a hand gesture resembling a deer's head. Purana mentions it as a constellation that embodies various symbolic narratives, including a deer associated with Lord Shiva and the luminosity from Brahma. The Natyashastra connects Mrigashirsha to the hand gesture of Shambhu, while Jyotisha emphasizes its importance in assessing marriage timing.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Mrigashirsha'
Mrigashirsha in Hinduism is interpreted as an asterism linked to excellence, representing Prajapati's head, a deer-themed hand posture, and significant in marriage timing, embodying symbolic connections to Brahma and Shiva.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The name of a constellation referred to in the text as a form of deer that fled from Lord Shiva during the Yajna.[1] (2) The constellation that was formed from the luminous refulgence of Brahma after he was struck down by Lord Hara.[2]
From: Agni Purana
(1) An asterism located at the east within the inner square.[3]
From: Abhinaya-darpana (English)
(1) The hand gesture denoting the left hand of Shambhu.[4]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) An asterism linked to excellence, often interpreted as the head of Prajapati, under which setting up fires grants excellence.[5]
From: Vishnudharmottara Purana (Art and Architecture)
(1) Identifies a hand posture that looks like the head of a deer, indicating various symbolic actions.[6]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) An asterism (Nakshatra) relevant for determining the quality of marriage timing.[7]