To truly understand the multifaceted nature of Muruga, also known as Karthikeya, Subrahmanya, and Shanmukha, one must explore the rich tapestry of mysticism, spirituality, astronomy, and ancient knowledge systems like Tantra, Alchemy, and Kundalini yoga.
Astronomical And Mythological Origins
Muruga’s birth story is deeply intertwined with both astronomy and the esoteric science of Kundalini yoga, passed down through ancient allegories and metaphoric hymns. In Hindu mythology, the Pleiades star cluster, known as the Krittikas, are identified as the celestial mothers of Karthikeya. This star cluster, also referred to as the Seven Sisters in Greek mythology, exists within the Taurus constellation. These stars, burning bright blue, signify youth and vitality, with an estimated age of over 100 million years.
The legend goes that Karthikeya was born from the divine spark of Lord Shiva, nurtured by the six celestial maidens of the Krittikas. This symbolism connects Muruga to the mysteries of the cosmos. His birth is not just a mythological event but also an allegory representing the emergence of cosmic energy and higher consciousness. He is metaphorically seen as Alcyone, one of the brightest stars in the Pleiades, symbolizing a young and powerful cosmic force.
The Sapta Rishis And Their Consorts
The connection between the Pleiades and the Sapta Rishis (Seven Sages) is another layer of this ancient knowledge. According to Indian mythology, these sages’ wives, symbolized as the Krittikas, are associated with Muruga’s upbringing.
At the dawn of creation, Lord Brahma realized the need for beings who could oversee the formation of the universe. To fulfill this, he brought forth 10 Prajapatis (progenitors of humanity) from his mind (Manas) and 9 from his body.
The 10 Prajapatis are:
- Marichi
- Atri
- Angirasa
- Pulaha
- Pulasthya
- Krathu
- Vasishta
- Prachethas
- Bhrigu
- Narada
Each Saptarishi was married to a celestial wife, associated with the Krittika or Pleiades star cluster:
Saptarishis (Husbands – Ursa Major Constellation) | Wives (Krittika/Pleiades Constellation)
- Marichi – Kala
- Atri – Anasuya
- Vasishta – Arundhathi
- Angirasa – Shraddha
- Pulaha – Havubhuh
- Pulasthya – Gathih
- Krathu – Kriya
Notably, the binary stars Vasishta and Arundhati in the Ursa Major constellation symbolize harmony and partnership, inspiring the tradition of newlyweds observing them to imbibe this eternal unity.
Born to Kardama and Devahooti, they are also the Seven Sisters of Kapila, who propounded the Natural Philosophy of Sankhya!
Incidentally, Kapila had two more sisters – Khyathi (Fame) and Shanti (Peace).
Their names in the Greek mythology are: Maia Electra, Taygete, Alcyone, Caleano, Sterope, Merope.
In Greek mythology, the Seven Sisters were pursued by Orion, the Hunter. To protect them, Jupiter transformed them into doves and placed them among the stars. In Indian mythology, these sisters are known as the wives of the Seven Rishis. There’s an unverified astronomical theory suggesting that our Sun orbits around Alcyone, a central star in the Pleiades cluster, whose parents were Atlas and Pleione.
Additionally, Karthikeya, also known as Murugan, is considered the nephew of Tirumaal (Mahavishnu). If Tirumaal represents the entire known and unknown universe, Karthikeya might be symbolically linked to the Alcyone star, which is part of a youthful star cluster (as blue stars are generally very young).
Symbolically, Lord Karthikeya is said to have been born from Agni and Svaha, who took on the forms of the six stars in the Pleiades constellation, known as Karthika. This is how he got the name Karthikeya. While Arundhati remained faithful to her husband Vasishta, the other six Rishis separated from their wives. Karthikeya was then nurtured by these six sisters, who became known as Karthika, while Arundhati (represented by the star Alcor) stayed close to Vasishta (represented by the star Mizar).
(Note: Vasishta and Arundhati are a pair of binary stars that orbit each other, which is why newlyweds are traditionally asked to view Arundhati, symbolizing a relationship where both partners revolve around one another rather than one dominating the other).
As the Sun moves through the constellation of Karthika, beginning from May 11th, Kerala, located 10.30 degrees north of the Equator, experiences relief from the intense heat. This marks the end of the scorching months of Sidereal Aquarius and Pisces (Kumbham and Meenam), bringing much-needed rainfall to the parched land. The rains intensify during the Sun’s transit of Rohini (Aldebaran), starting on May 25th, and continue to pour heavily after the solar transit of Meissa in the Mriga Sira Njattuvela, beginning June 8th, bringing Kerala its monsoon rains.
The Spiritual Significance Of Muruga
Muruga embodies the triad of divine energies: Iccha Shakti (Willpower), Jnana Shakti (Knowledge), and Kriya Shakti (Action). His two consorts, Valli and Devasena, represent the energies of desire and action, respectively, while Muruga himself symbolizes the power of divine wisdom.
- Valli signifies the Ida Nadi (left energy channel).
- Devasena signifies the Pingala Nadi (right energy channel).
- The Vel (Spear) represents the Sushumna Nadi, the central energy channel that rises through the chakras, guiding the Kundalini energy towards enlightenment.
Muruga’s divine attributes include his mount, the peacock, symbolizing the mastery of the conscious mind, and the rooster on his flag, a symbol of vigilance and discipline.
Kundalini Awakening And Chakra System
Muruga’s spiritual symbolism is deeply rooted in Kundalini yoga. The Vel, his weapon, is believed to pierce through the six chakras, activating them, and ultimately merging the Kundalini Shakti with the Sahasrara (crown chakra), which symbolizes union with the divine consciousness. This journey of the Kundalini from Mooladhara (root) to Sahasrara is the ultimate spiritual ascent, representing liberation (moksha).
Muruga’s battle with the demon Surapadman is a metaphor for the inner struggle against ego and ignorance. The six-day festival of Skanda Sashti, commemorating this victory, parallels the activation of the six chakras in the human body. On the seventh day, known as Thirukalyanam, it symbolizes the union of Kundalini Shakti with divine consciousness.
Kundalini is the mystical journey towards Moksha, the ultimate liberation. It is a dormant energy residing in the higher centers of the body, waiting to be awakened. When this powerful force is activated, it ascends through six chakras or spiritual energy centers, illuminating them one by one. Muruga, the divine warrior, is the embodiment of Kundalini itself, wielding his Jnana Vela (sacred lance) to open and energize all the chakras, not just the Kundalini. This connection ties Muruga to each chakra, symbolizing his role in guiding us beyond human limitations, such as desire, lust, greed, attachment, and religious dogma. Upon reaching this state, one transcends into Nirlipta—complete detachment. Here, you experience the profound realization of “Śivoham” (I am Shiva, where Shiva represents Brahman) or “Subrahmaṇyoham” (I am Subrahmanya, symbolizing Brahman), achieving ultimate self-realization. This is the moment of true enlightenment!
Muruga is also revered as Bahuleyan, the younger brother of Ganapathy (Ganesha). In this divine family, Ganapathy represents the Mooladhara Chakra, the foundation of all spiritual practice. Every endeavor begins by invoking Ganapathy, symbolizing the mantra ‘LAM’ (Lambhodharan). The sacred Swastik symbol reflects the four petals of the Mooladhara Chakra. The famous Carnatic song, “Mooladhara Moortee,” honors this energy center with the lyrics:
“Mooladhara Moorti Gaja Mukhane, Sharanam Unadhu Ubhaya CharaNam” —
Oh, embodiment of the root chakra, elephant-faced one, I seek refuge in your divine feet.
As you progress in your spiritual journey, you merge with the essence of Muruga, dissolving your ego and worldly desires. Just as Tarakasura’s ego was shattered and he became a devotee of Muruga, so too does the spiritual seeker conquer their ego. In this state, you rise above mundane cravings, finding divine fulfillment in the presence of Muruga.
The inner demons we face are symbolized by Tarakasura and his three sons—Tarakaksha, Vidyunmali, and Kamalaksha, collectively known as the Tripurasura. These figures represent the psychic knots or granthis within our body, which block spiritual progress. By overcoming the ego (Tarakasura) and these knots, one can achieve a state of spiritual liberation and unity with the divine essence of Muruga.
According to the Skanda Purana, Parvati bestowed upon Murugan a divine spear known as the Vel. Accompanied by Virabahu, his commander-in-chief, and eight others — sons born of the nine Shaktis emerging from the gems of Parvati’s broken anklet — Murugan set out to battle the demon Surapadman. These nine warriors were known as the Nava-Veerarkal.
When Murugan was tasked with vanquishing Surapadman, Virabahu and the Nava-Veerarkal led a formidable army southward. As they reached the Vindhya mountains, they encountered Surapadman’s brothers, Krauncha, transformed into a mountain, and Tarakasura. Murugan engaged in battle with Tarakasura, striking him at the heart with his spear. He then hurled the Vel at Krauncha, reducing him to dust.
The festival of Thaipusam is celebrated to honor Murugan’s victory over Surapadman.
Note: These stories are allegorical, symbolizing the journey of Kundalini Yoga. The use of pranayama helps to release psychic knots and open the chakras. The reference to “going south” symbolizes the descent of prana to the lower chakras. Krauncha, which means Heron, also ties into Krounchasana, a yoga posture used in Kundalini practice.
Philosophical And Upanishadic Essence
Muruga is revered as the embodiment of divine knowledge, often described as “Jnana Pandita.” He is seen as the essence of the Upanishadic Mahavakyas, encapsulating the profound truths of existence. His form at Palani, where he is depicted as an ascetic clad in a loincloth, symbolizes detachment from worldly desires and the pursuit of spiritual wisdom.
The Tamil poetess Avvaiyar’s invocation, “Pazham Nee Appa,” praising Muruga as the “fruit of wisdom,” indicates that the ultimate goal of spiritual pursuit is to attain divine knowledge and bliss.
In Ramayana the three Granthis are denoted as
Brahma granthi – Lanka Dahanam (Burning of Lanka/materialistic desires)
Vishnu Granthi – Lakshmana Moorcha (Giving life to Lakshmana/getting back consciousness)
Rudra Granthi – Ravana Vadham ( Killing Ravana/ Destroying the Ego)
Bagavath Gita Chapter Chapter 10, Verse 24 says
पुरोधसां च मुख्यं मां विद्धि पार्थ बृहस्पतिम् |
सेनानीनामहं स्कन्द: सरसामस्मि सागर: || 24||
purodhasāṁ cha mukhyaṁ māṁ viddhi pārtha bṛihaspatim
senānīnām ahaṁ skandaḥ sarasām asmi sāgaraḥ
O Arjuna, amongst priests I am Brihaspati; amongst warrior chiefs I am Skanda/Kartikeya;
and amongst reservoirs of water, I am the ocean.
Śrī Ādi Śhankarāchārya says Karthikeya represents Upaniśhadic Mahā-Vākyas.
Meaning, Karthikeya is the essence of all Upanishads!
Once you kill all the demons and the Ego, you’ll realise Muruga/ Om/Aum (the consciousness) and become Muruga himself.
There are totally 9 snakes which represent the 9 nagas in the human body. (Ananta, Vasuki, Sesha, Padmanabha, Kambala, Sankhapala, Dritharashtra, Takshaka, Kaliya). Other than Anantha; which denotes consciousness, rest of the snakes denote evil qualities.
Thiru Muruga Kripananda varriar has written a book on Ashta Naaga Bhandham. Bhandham means ‘to lock’ or ‘to tie’. Ashta Naga bhandham also comes in Vaishnava agama called Vaikhanasa agama and in Atharva veda sect where tantra is a major part.
Pambatti Siddhar sings
“எட்டுநாகந் தம்மைக்கையா லெடுத்தேயாட்டுவோம்
இந்திரனார் உலகத்தை இங்கே காட்டுவோம்
கட்டுக்கடங் காதபாம்பைக் கட்டி விடுவோம்
கடுவிஷத் தன்னைக்கக்கி யாடு பாம்பே.”
We will charm all the 8 snakes
We will show the Indraloka here within us
We will tie the snakes which does not obey
Spit out the poison and dance gracefully O’ snake!
The Rooster, Peacock, And Serpent Symbols
- The Peacock: Represents a disciplined, awakened mind that can tame the ego (symbolized by the serpent).
- The Rooster: Known for heralding the dawn, it signifies awakening to higher truths and aligns with the natural rhythm of the universe.
- The Serpent: Represents the ego and base desires, which are controlled and subdued by spiritual discipline.
The Nine Nagas And Inner Transformation
Muruga is also linked to the concept of the Nine Nagas, which represent different energies and qualities within the human body. His divine energy is believed to be capable of awakening and harmonizing these forces, leading to spiritual enlightenment.
The song by Pambatti Siddhar, a revered Tamil Siddha, encapsulates the journey of taming these inner serpentine energies to reach higher states of consciousness.
தெளிந்து தெளிந்துதெளிந் தாடுபாம்பே –
சிவன் சீர்பாதங் கண்டுதெளிந் தாடு பாம்பே
ஆடும்பாம்பே தெளிந்தாடு பாம்பே –
சிவன் அடியினைக் கண்டோமென் றாடு பாம்பே.
அருவாயும் உருவாயும் அந்தியாயும் அந்தமாயும்
ஒளியாயும் ஆகமமாயும் திருவாயுங் குருவாயும்
சீவனாயும் செறிந்தவஸ் துவைப்போற்றி யாடு பாம்பே.
சுட்டிக்காட்டி ஒண்ணாதபாழ் சூனி யந்தன்னைச்
சூட்சமதி யாலறிந்து தோஷ மறவே
எட்டிபிடித் தோமென் றானந்த மாகப்பை
எடுத்து விரித்துநின் றாடு பாம்பே.
பொய்ம்மதங்கள் போதனைசெய் பொய்க்கு ருக்களைப்
புத்திசொல்லி நன்னெறியிற் போக விடுக்கும்
மெய்ம்மதந்தான் இன்ன தென்றும் மேவ விளம்பும்
மெய்க்குருவின் பதம் போற்றி ஆடாய்பாம்பே.
வேதப்பொருளின்ன தென்று வேதங் கடந்த
மெய்ப்பொருளைக்கண்டுமனம் மேவிவிளம்பிப்
போதப்பொருள் இன்னதென்றும் போதனை செய்யும்
பூரணசற் குருதாள்கண் டாடாய் பாம்பே.
கூடுவிட்டுக் கூடுபாயுங் கொள்கை யுடைய
குருவின் வல்லபமெவர் கூற வல்லவர் வீடுபெறும்
வகையைமென் மேலுங் காட்டும் மெய்க்குருவைப்
பணிந்துநின் றாடாய் பாம்பே.
நாதர்முடி மேலிருக்கும் நாகப் பாம்பே
நச்சுப்பையை வைத்திருக்கும் நல்ல பாம்பே
பாதலத்திற் குடிபுகும் பைகொள் பாம்பே
பாடிப்பாடி நின்றுவிளை யாடு பாம்பே.
குற்றமற்ற சிவனுக்குக் குண்டல மானாய்
கூறுந்திரு மாலினுக்குக் குடையு யானாய்
கற்றைக்குழல் பார்வதிக்குங் கங்கண மானாய்
கரவாமல் உளங்களித் தாடு பாம்பே.
சந்திரனைச் சூரியனைத் தாவித் தீண்டினாய்
சங்கரனுக் காபரணந் தானுமாகினாய்
மந்திரத்திற் கடங்கினாய் மண்டல மிட்டாய்
வளைந்து வளைந்துநின் றாடு பாம்பே.
Not Just Tamil God, He’s A World God
This practice of worshipping natural elements like the sun and fire is observed in various ancient cultures around the world. A notable example is the Yazidi community of Iraq, one of the oldest known civilizations. The Yazidis continue to perform rituals such as sunrise and sunset prayers, similar to the Surya Vandana practiced in other traditions, where they pay homage to the sun. They also conduct Agnihotra fire rituals, which involve offering prayers and oblations to the sacred fire.
Interestingly, the Yazidis use instruments like the dholak (a type of drum) and the shankh (conch shell) in their ceremonies, and they place a high significance on taking ritualistic baths in rivers. One of the most intriguing aspects of Yazidi worship is their reverence for the peacock, embodied in the figure of Malek Taus, the Peacock Angel. What makes this unique is that peacocks are not native to the region where the Yazidis live; they are found in abundance primarily in India. This suggests a fascinating cultural link or shared symbolism that transcends geographical boundaries, highlighting the universal elements in ancient religious practices.
Muruga’s Compassion And Divine Grace
Muruga is often referred to as “Karunai Kadal” (Ocean of Compassion). His benevolence is seen in the way he forgives his adversaries and transforms them into allies. The most notable example is his acceptance of Soorapadman, who, after being vanquished, became Muruga’s symbolic vahana (vehicle) and emblem.
Conclusion
Muruga is not merely a deity but a cosmic principle symbolizing the journey of the soul from ignorance to enlightenment. His essence lies in overcoming the ego, embracing divine wisdom, and aligning oneself with the cosmic rhythm. Thus, invoking Muruga is akin to invoking the latent spiritual energy within, aiming for the ultimate realization of one’s divine nature—“Subrahmanyoham” or “I am Subrahmanya.”
The journey of understanding Muruga is a journey into the depths of one’s own consciousness, a call to awaken the dormant spiritual potential within each of us. Harohara! Harohara!
Dark Knight is a writer trying to bring out metaphors, allegories and the hidden essence of Sanatana Dharma.
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