SURAJA (SURYA) The sun-god and moon-god are in Thy Fear, O Lord ! There is no end to the distances of million of miles traversed by them. (Var Asa, M. l, p. 464) There are many Indras, sun-gods and moon-gods….. (Japu, p. 7) The sun-god, (whose charioteer is Aruna), is the light of the world….. (Dhanasari Trilochan, p. 695) Why should they fear the son of sun-god i.e. Dharmaraja, who meditate on the Feet of the Guru ? (Swayye Mahle Chauthe Ke, p. 1404) Comments : The sun-god is the great source of light and heat.
According to a legend, he is the son of Kashyapa and Aditi. In another, he is referred to as the son of Brahma. His wife was Sanjana, who was the daughter of Vishwakarma. Because of his over-powering effulgence, Vishwakarma cut away the eighth part of his effulgence. Out of the fragments of the cut-away pieces, discus of Vishnu, trident of Shiva and some weapons of other gods were made. In various descriptions, he is said to be the father of Ashvini Kumars, Dharmaraja, Shani, Sugriva etc.
His chariot is driven by seven horses and his charioteer is Aruna. He is known by several names, as Biswa ka Deepak, Ravi Sut or Sut Bhan, Martand, Savitri, Vivaswat etc.
References :
1. Kohli,Surindar Singh ed,Dictionary of Mythological References in Guru Granth Sahib 1993
Surya, also known as Aditya, is the Sun God in Hindu mythology and one of the Navagrahas (nine celestial deities). Surya is revered as the source of light, life, and energy, playing a vital role in sustaining the universe. As a symbol of vitality and radiance, he holds an important position in Vedic texts, epics, and Puranas.
Key Aspects of Surya:
Origins and Lineage:
- Surya is the son of Kashyapa, a sage, and Aditi, a celestial mother, making him part of the Adityas, a group of solar deities.
- He is often referred to as Suraja, indicating his role as the giver of light and day.
Iconography:
- Surya is depicted as a radiant figure riding a chariot drawn by seven horses, symbolizing the seven colors of light and the seven days of the week.
- The chariot is driven by Aruna, his charioteer, who represents the dawn.
- Surya is typically shown holding lotuses in both hands, signifying enlightenment and purity.
Role in Mythology:
- Surya is worshipped as the supreme source of life, energy, and health. His rays are believed to nourish and sustain all living beings.
- He is the father of notable figures like Shani (the deity of Saturn), Yama (the god of death), and Ashwini Kumaras (the twin physicians of the gods).
- Surya also plays a significant role in the Ramayana, as the divine mentor of Hanuman, and in the Mahabharata, as the father of Karna, one of its central characters.
Worship and Festivals:
- Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation) is a daily yogic practice dedicated to honoring Surya and his life-giving energy.
- Festivals like Makar Sankranti and Chhath Puja celebrate Surya’s presence, expressing gratitude for his light and nourishment.
- Devotees offer water, flowers, and prayers to Surya during sunrise, seeking his blessings for health and prosperity.
Symbolism:
- Surya represents truth, vitality, and spiritual illumination. His cyclical journey across the sky symbolizes the passage of time and the balance between light and darkness.
Surya’s timeless significance as the Sun God underscores his integral role in both the cosmic order and daily life.
