RAVI-SUTA (SUTA-BHAN) Why should they fear Ravi-Suta (the son of the sun) i.e. Dharmaraja whose mind is absorbed in the feet of the Guru. (Swayye Mahle Chauthe Ke, p. 1404) Dharmaraja was the son of Surya (sun), therefore he is called Ravi-Suta. Surya is also called Bhan, therefore’Suta Bhan’ also connotes ‘Ravi-Suta’. (See Swayye Mahle Chauthe ke, p. 1400). See : Dharmaraja.
References :
1. Kohli,Surindar Singh ed,Dictionary of Mythological References in Guru Granth Sahib 1993
In Hindu mythology, Ravi Suta translates to “Son of the Sun” (Ravi meaning Sun and Suta meaning son). This title is often associated with Yama, the god of death and justice, as he is considered the son of Surya (the Sun God) and Sanjna (or Saranyu), the goddess of clouds.
Key Aspects of Ravi Suta:
Yama’s Role:
- Yama, as Ravi Suta, is the ruler of the underworld (Yamaloka) and the dispenser of justice. He ensures that souls are judged based on their deeds (karma) and assigned their next birth or liberation accordingly.
- He is also known as Dharmaraja, the lord of righteousness, emphasizing his role in upholding cosmic order.
Siblings:
- Yama’s siblings include Yami (also known as Yamuna, the river goddess), Shani (the god of Saturn and justice), and the divine twins Ashwini Kumaras (physicians of the gods).
Symbolism:
- As the son of the Sun, Ravi Suta represents the balance between light (knowledge) and the inevitability of death, reminding humanity of the transient nature of life.
Mentions in Scriptures:
- Yama is frequently mentioned in texts like the Rigveda, Mahabharata, and Puranas. His role as Ravi Suta highlights his divine lineage and his connection to the Sun’s illuminating and life-giving qualities.
