Significance of Sarpa

The keyphrase "Sarpa" encompasses various meanings across different traditions. In Vaishnavism, it denotes snakes and a deity linked with Yoga Shula. In Shaivism, Sarpa symbolizes wisdom and is represented by Daksinamurti's snake. Dharmashastra recognizes Sarpa in mythological contexts, while Kavyashastra refers to it as "O snake." In scientific terms, Sarpa identifies snakes in Ayurveda, categorized by their dosha influences and properties, affirming its significance in both mythology and health practices.1
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Synonyms: Snake, Serpent, Viper, Python, Adder, Boa, Cobra

In Dutch: Sarpa; In German: Sarpa; In Finnish: Sarpa; In Spanish: Sarpa

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Sarpa'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, Sarpa symbolizes serpents, representing both protection and movement, created from Brahma's shivered hairs, and is associated with wisdom, mythological contexts, and the deity Yoga Shula, highlighting intricate spiritual meanings.

Significance in Dharmashastra (religious law):
Dharmashastra Books

From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi

(1) Serpents that are well-known and acknowledged in various mythological contexts.[1]

Dharmashastra contains the instructions (shastra) regarding religious conduct of livelihood (dharma), ceremonies, jurisprudence (study of law) and more. It is categorized as smriti, an important and authoritative selection of books dealing with the Hindu lifestyle.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Garga Samhita (English)

(1) A Sanskrit term referring to snakes.[2]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (‘ten avatars of Vishnu’).

Plural form: De Sarpa.