KRISHNA The One Krishna is the Chief among gods, the soul of their godliness. If one comprehends the secret, this soul is God Himself… (Var Asa, M. 2, p. 469) (The false Gurus) Sing of Gopis and Krishna, Sita and Rama, but not the Fearless and True Transcendental Lord Who is the Creator of the whole world, whom only His servants through their great deeds adore….. (Var Asa, M. l, p. 465) In the period of Yajur Veda, there vas Kahn (Krishna) in Yadava elan.
He seduced Chandravali (Gopi) by force and brought (from Heaven) the Elysian Tree for her. At Vrindavana, he revelled in love with her. (Vas Asa, M. l, p. 470) Hail, hall, the vina of the Lord is being played, the sweet and undying tune resounds. Hail, hail, the wool of the ram, whose blanket is worn by Kristina. Hail, hail, O mother Devaki, in whose house there plays the Lord. Hail, hail, the forest of Vrindavana, where plays the Lord Himself.
When he plays upon vina, the cows graze, the Lord of Nama (Namdev) remains in bliss. (Mali Gaura Namdev, p. 988) The name Krishna is not only used for the incarnation of Vishnu, but also for God Himself. The episodes of the life of Krishna sung by the devotees of Vishnu, do not have any significance in the Sikh Scripture, as can be seen in references 2 and 3 above, but when the same Name is given to the Lord-God, as in references l and 4, it is used with utmost respect and all its relations are sanctified. See: Das Avatars
References :
1. Kohli,Surindar Singh ed,Dictionary of Mythological References in Guru Granth Sahib 1993
Krishna, one of the most celebrated and adored deities in Hindu mythology, is revered as the eighth avatar of Lord Vishnu and the supreme manifestation of divinity. His story, primarily chronicled in texts like the Mahabharata, Bhagavad Gita, and Bhagavata Purana, encapsulates themes of love, wisdom, valor, and spirituality.
Key Aspects of Krishna in Hindu Mythology:
Birth and Childhood:
- Krishna was born to Devaki and Vasudeva in Mathura, under extraordinary circumstances. His uncle, the tyrannical king Kamsa, sought to kill him due to a prophecy predicting his demise at Krishna’s hands.
- Krishna was secretly taken to Gokul, where he was raised by Yashoda and Nanda. His childhood is filled with enchanting tales of divine feats, such as killing demons like Putana and Kaliya, and his playful acts with the Gopis (cowherd maidens).
The Love of Radha:
- Krishna’s love for Radha symbolizes the eternal union of the soul (Radha) with the divine (Krishna). Their relationship is celebrated in devotional poetry and art, highlighting themes of love and devotion.
Role in the Mahabharata:
- Krishna played a crucial role in the Mahabharata, serving as a charioteer and spiritual guide to Arjuna. His discourse to Arjuna in the midst of the Kurukshetra War, known as the Bhagavad Gita, is considered one of the most profound spiritual texts in Hindu philosophy.
The Govardhan Episode:
- Krishna lifted the Govardhan Hill to protect the residents of Vrindavan from the wrath of Indra, the rain god. This act highlights his role as a protector and nurturer of his devotees.
Ruler of Dwarka:
- Krishna established the kingdom of Dwarka, where he ruled with wisdom and justice. His life as a statesman and king showcases his ability to balance material duties with spiritual ideals.
Symbolism:
- Krishna represents love, divine wisdom, and cosmic order. His teachings emphasize the importance of dharma, devotion, and detachment in the pursuit of liberation.
- As Govinda and Gopala, he symbolizes harmony with nature and the bliss of divine play.
Worship and Festivals:
- Krishna is worshipped widely across India and beyond. His birthday, Janmashtami, is a grand celebration, marked by fasting, prayers, and reenactments of his divine play (Leela).
- Holi, the festival of colors, also celebrates Krishna’s playful spirit.
Krishna’s multifaceted personality—divine lover, heroic protector, profound teacher, and wise ruler—makes him a timeless figure of inspiration and devotion. His teachings in the Bhagavad Gita continue to guide seekers on the path of self-realization and righteousness.
