Significance of Two Ashvins
The Two Ashvins are significant twin deities in Hinduism, Jainism, and other traditions, symbolizing health, vitality, and divine assistance. They are depicted as celestial physicians, celebrated for their healing abilities and benevolence. In various texts, they are associated with sacrificial rites, the promotion of health and well-being, and even depicted as mythological twins embodying brotherly love. Their invocation at ceremonies is intended to provide blessings related to health, vitality, and protection, highlighting their revered status in Vedic literature.
In Dutch: Twee Ashvins; In Finnish: Kaksi Ashvinia
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Two Ashvins'
The Two Ashvins in Hinduism are divine twin deities recognized as the physicians of the gods, symbolizing health, vitality, and healing, and are invoked for blessings, protection, and assistance in both spiritual and physical wellness.
From: Hiranyakesi-grihya-sutra
(1) Deities associated with health and well-being, invoked during the initiation process.[1] (2) Divine twin horsemen associated with health and medicine, invoked during sacrificial rites for their protective and beneficial qualities.[2] (3) The twin deities associated with health and well-being who are invoked to aid in conception.[3] (4) The twin deities in Vedic tradition who are invoked for blessings related to health and vitality.[4] (5) A pair of divine twin brothers invoked for protection, typically represented as deities related to health and safety.[5]
From: Sankhayana-grihya-sutra
(1) The divine twin deities in Hindu mythology known for their healing powers and association with horsemen.[6] (2) A reference to the twin deities Ashvins, associated with healing and the early morning light.[7]
From: Paraskara-grihya-sutra
(1) Mythological twin deities in Hinduism, who are also included in the offerings made during the sacrifices.[8] (2) Refers to the twin deities in Hindu mythology associated with medicine and health.[9]
From: Baudhayana Dharmasutra
(1) Deities in Vedic literature known for their roles in health, medicine, and the promotion of fame through procreation.[10]
From: Asvalayana-grihya-sutra
(1) Refers to the twin deities known for bringing health and safety, invoked in the context of the ceremony through the teacher's formula.[11]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The twin deities known as the physicians of the Devas, symbolizing health and vitality, and worshipped for blessings and cure.[12] (2) The twin deities associated with health and medicine who were also present at the ceremonial event.[13] (3) Physicians among the Devas who are also described to dwell at the holy spot.[14]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The divine twins who visit the hermitage and inquire about the beautiful princess.[15] (2) Two divine twin brothers known for their benevolence and abilities as physicians, who provided Cyavana with beauty, youth, and lustre.[16] (3) A pair of celestial beings that are depicted as forming the nipples of the Zodiac's cosmic body.[17]
From: Agni Purana
(1) Divine physicians from Hindu mythology that are worshipped during the rituals performed in preparation for a king's expedition.[18]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) The twin gods, Nasatya and Dasra, born from the mare, recognized as the best physicians among the divine beings.[19]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) Deities associated with the senses of hearing and sight in the ritual sacrifices.[20] (2) Twin deities referenced in rituals, known for restoring sacred aspects in ceremonies.[21] (3) Divine twin physicians called upon to heal Indra, representing divine assistance in recovering lost vitality.[22] (4) Twin deities involved in preparing the Sautramani sacrifice for healing.[23]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) Refers to a pair of figures that are part of the lineage showing connections of teachings.[24]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) Gods who were sent by Indra to deliver his message to Nagarjuna regarding the futility of his endeavor to conquer death.[25]
Jain concept of 'Two Ashvins'
In Jainism, the Two Ashvins symbolize the mythological twin siblings who embody brotherly love and loyalty, representing the virtues of connection and harmony within relationships, emphasizing important moral values in the faith.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A reference to the mythological twin siblings known for their connection and virtues, symbolizing the ideal of brotherly love and loyalty.[26]