HIRANYAKSHA Meaning and
Definition
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Hiranyaksha, also spelled Hiranyakashipu, is a prominent character in Hindu mythology. In Hindu scriptures, specifically in the Vishnu Purana and Bhagavata Purana, Hiranyaksha is depicted as a demon or Asura who possesses immense power and immortality.
According to the ancient texts, Hiranyaksha was the younger brother of another Asura named Hiranyakashipu. Together, they were the sons of the sage Kashyapa and his wife Diti. Hiranyaksha is known for his fierce and malevolent nature, and his name translates to "golden-eyed" or "golden-horned" in Sanskrit.
One of the most famous tales involving Hiranyaksha is his battle with the preserver deity Vishnu. In this story, Hiranyaksha plunges the Earth into the primordial ocean, taking it to the netherworld. Vishnu takes the form of Varaha, the boar incarnation, and defeats the demon, rescuing the Earth from beneath the ocean. This tale symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and the restoration of cosmic order.
Hiranyaksha's character is often used in Hindu mythology as a representation of arrogance, power, and the distorted nature of evil. His mythological significance lies in the eternal struggle between good and evil forces in the world.
Overall, Hiranyaksha is an important character in Hindu mythology, representing the inherent struggle between the forces of good and evil and serving as a reminder of the triumph of righteousness.
Etymology of HIRANYAKSHA
The word "Hiranyaksha" is derived from the ancient Indian language of Sanskrit. In Sanskrit, "hiranya" means "gold" and "aksha" means "eye" or "having eyes". Therefore, "Hiranyaksha" can be translated to mean "one with golden eyes" or "the golden-eyed one".
In Hindu mythology, Hiranyaksha is a powerful demon who appears in the ancient scriptures like the Vishnu Purana and the Bhagavata Purana. He is known for his immense strength and his desire to challenge and defeat the gods.
