Significance of Shesha
Synonyms: Serpent king, Adishesha, Ananta, Snake deity
In Dutch: Shesha; In Finnish: Shesha; In Spanish: Shesha
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Shesha'
Shesha, or Anantadeva, is a divine serpent in Hinduism, serving Lord Vishnu and embodying ultimate servitude. He supports the cosmos, grants knowledge, and merges with Sankarshana, symbolizing divine authority and closeness to the Supreme Being.
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A deity or cosmic entity in Hindu mythology often associated with the serpent and considered to be a form of the Supreme Being.[1] (2) Shesha, also known as Anantadeva, is a deity that engages in the service of the Supreme Lord.[2] (3) The unlimited end; a reference to Lord Anantadeva's role in concluding material existence.[3] (4) A divine serpent associated with the god Vishnu, often depicted as a companion and supporter.[4] (5) A form of the Supreme Lord known for his role in supporting the universe and serving as a resting place for Lord Vishnu.[5]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Refers to a deity or entity on which something rests or reclines; in this context, it implies a position of support and significance.[6] (2) A proper noun referring to a divine serpent or a significant figure in Hindu mythology.[7] (3) Another name for Lord Ananta, representing a cosmic serpent and a significant figure in Hindu cosmology.[8] (4) The specific kala expansion that will take birth in Rohini.[9]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Shesha is one of the principal attendants of the Lord, recognized among the foremost associates glorifying Him.[10] (2) the manifestation of Bhagavan that is lovingly worshipped by Shiva[11]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The serpent deity associated with Lakshmana, involved in the ceremonial context of Sahasradhara, symbolizing the connection to higher consciousness.[12] (2) A divine serpent in Hindu mythology, often depicted as supporting the universe and providing a resting place for other deities.[13] (3) The well-known name of the deity who is a form of Balabhadra present in Mitravana.[14]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) The king of serpents, embodying divine authority and protection in the context of Akrura's visit to the Naga region.[15]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) A divine entity that grants pure knowledge and helps to dispel ignorance.[16]
From: Markandeya Purana (Study)
(1) The second form of Narayana known for supporting the world and embodying the quality of darkness.[17]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) Refers to items or components that are secondary in relation to the primary action.[18] (2) A term used in the text to indicate something that has become a secondary element within the primary action or verb.[19]
From: Dasarupaka (critical study)
(1) The lord of the serpent portrayed as a female character, who suffers from the Tripurasura but contributes to the plan to defeat them.[20] (2) A character involved in the churning of the ocean in the Samudramanthana.[21]
The concept of Shesha in local and regional sources
Shesha is a sweet, yellow rice dish made with saffron and dry fruits, celebrated during festivities. It embodies regional culinary traditions, showcasing the joyful spirit of communal celebrations and cultural heritage through its delightful flavors.
From: Lord Jhulelal: An Analytical Study
(1) A sweet and yellow rice preparation made with saffron and dry fruits, enjoyed during the festivities.[22]