MACHHINDARNATHA (Matsyendranatha), also known as Minanatha, i.e. Fish-Lord, Minapa, Luipa (in Tibet), and Avilokitesvara (in Nepal), who flourished in the 10th century AD, was one of the eighty-four siddhas or Perfect ones of Tantric Buddhism. According to Tibetan-Buddhist belief, he was a fisherman who, while devoured alive by a large fish (matsya or mina in Sanskrit and machchhi in Punjabi), was initiated by Mahadeva or Adinatha himself. He in turn was the guru of Gorakhnath, the founder of the Nath cult. The Janam Sakhis mention Machhindarnatha as having met Guru Nanak and conversed with him.
The reference may be to a contemporary adherent of his school of yogis. The name does not occur in Guru Nanak\’s Sidh Gosti, but another of his hymns in Raga Ramkali is addressed to a yogi, there mentioned as Machhindra. The Guru says that true yoga meant not austerities but overcoming the Five Evils; that the true avadhuta, i.e. renouncer or recluse, is [not one who renounces the world but] one who remains absorbed in contemplation; and that such a one begs for [not alms but] devotion, rejoices in the invaluable gift of contentment, and fixes his mind on the True Name (GG, 877).
References :
1. Sabaddarth Sri Guru Granth Sahib. Amritsar, 1964
2. Bhalla, Sarup Das, Mahima Prakash. Patiala, 1971
3. Dviwedi, Hazari Prasad, Nath Sampradaya. Varanasi, 1966
4. Briggs, George Weston, Gorakhnath and the Kanphata Yogis. Varanasi, 1973
Machhindarnatha, also known as Matsyendranatha, is a revered figure in Hindu and Buddhist traditions. He is considered one of the 84 Mahasiddhas (great accomplished ones) in Tantric Buddhism and is also a central figure in the Nath tradition of Hinduism. His name translates to “Lord of the Fish,” and his life is steeped in fascinating legends and spiritual significance.
Legends of Machhindarnatha
One of the most well-known legends about Machhindarnatha involves his miraculous birth and spiritual awakening:
- Birth and Early Life: According to legend, Machhindarnatha was born under unusual circumstances. Some accounts suggest he was swallowed by a fish as a child and lived inside its belly. During this time, he overheard Lord Shiva imparting the secrets of yoga to Goddess Parvati. This divine knowledge transformed him into a great yogi.
- Spiritual Journey: After emerging from the fish, Machhindarnatha dedicated his life to spreading the teachings of yoga and spirituality. He is credited with founding the Nath Sampradaya, a sect that emphasizes Hatha Yoga and the pursuit of liberation through disciplined practice. Contributions to Yoga and Philosophy
Machhindarnatha is regarded as the guru of Gorakhnath, another prominent figure in the Nath tradition. Together, they are credited with reviving and systematizing Hatha Yoga, a practice that focuses on physical postures, breath control, and meditation to achieve spiritual enlightenment.
He is also associated with Kaula Shaivism, a tantric tradition that emphasizes the unity of the individual soul with the universal consciousness. His teachings often blend elements of Shaivism, Buddhism, and yoga, making him a bridge between different spiritual traditions.
Worship and Legacy
Machhindarnatha is venerated in both Hindu and Buddhist communities, particularly in Nepal, where he is regarded as an incarnation of Avalokiteshvara, the bodhisattva of compassion. The annual Machhindranath Jatra, a chariot festival held in his honor, is a major cultural event in Nepal.
His teachings and practices continue to inspire spiritual seekers, and his legacy lives on through the Nath tradition and the broader yoga community.
