Ananta
Shesha is also known as “Adishesha” meaning “first serpent”
or “primordial serpent”. He is considered to be the primal energy or
the cosmic force that holds the universe together. He is also known as
“Anantashayana” which means “eternal repose” and
“Ananta-Vishnu” meaning “eternal Vishnu” as he is
considered to be the eternal companion of Lord Vishnu.
Ananta
Shesha is also known for his role in the churning of the ocean of milk, a story
that is told in the Hindu epic, the Mahabharata. In this tale, the gods and
demons join forces to churn the ocean in order to obtain the nectar of
immortality. Ananta Shesha acts as the rope that is used to churn the ocean,
and it is said that he grew so long that he wrapped himself around the world
and held the ends of the rope in his mouth.
In addition
to his role in Hindu culture, Ananta Shesha is also revered in the Bhagavad
Gita, a sacred text of Hinduism. In this text, Ananta Shesha is described as
the eternal being who supports the universe and is beyond the grasp of the
material world.
In Hindu
devotion, Ananta Shesha is often invoked as a powerful and benevolent god who
can grant protection and blessings. He is also considered to be the one who can
remove the fear of death and grant the blessings of immortality.
Ananta
Shesha is also revered in the Bhakti traditions of Hinduism, and is often
depicted in the temples and shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu. He is also
worshipped in the form of a serpent stone or a serpent idol and is offered
milk, ghee and honey as prasad.
In Hindu art
and iconography, Ananta Shesha is often depicted with many heads and coils,
representing the infinite nature of the universe. He is also often shown with
multiple arms, holding weapons and symbols of power.
Ananta
Shesha is considered to be a powerful and benevolent god in Hindu tradition and
is revered for his role in supporting the universe and protecting the gods. He
is often invoked in prayers and rituals for protection and blessings.