The Sheshnag Snake: Story, Significance and Unknown Facts!

The Sheshnag snake is the king of snakes who supports the universe on his hoods. Why is he called ‘Ananta,’ or endless? Let’s know about his tale, which explains infinity, patience and his role in supporting the universe.

Who is Sheshnag?

The Sheshanag snake, the king of snakes, is a powerful deity in Hindu Mythology. He is the eldest son of Sage Kashyapa and his wife, Kadru. Disappointed by the cruelty of his brothers, Sheshnaag left home and resided in the air to perform severe penance.

His dedication pleased lord Brahma, who gave him a boon to go beneath the earth and balance the universe. Therefore, people say that he carries the earth on his hood till the present day.

The Legend of Sheshnag Snake

The legends of Shesha naga tell about his divine service to Lord Vishnu. His story teaches us lessons in devotion, cosmic balance, and protection. Let’s discuss some of the stories related to the great snake, Shesh Naga.

Birth of Lord Krishna

Lord Krishna had to be shielded from the demon king Kansa at birth because he wanted to kill him. Lord Krishna’s father, Vasudeva, sent him to his friend Nanda’s house to keep him safe.

The Yamuna River was rushing, and Vasudeva took Lord Krishna across it. Additionally, the Sheshnag snake provided Lord Krishna and Vasudeva with protection from its hood as they crossed the river.

Lord Vishnu on Sheshnag Snake

Lord Vishnu pulled out the primordial water (the first water of the universe) who appeared in the Varaha Avatar, a boar, when the universe was created. He then needed to relax, so he decided to sit atop the enormous serpent Sheshnaag.

Lord Vishnu could repose peacefully and safely thanks to Sheshnaag’s thousand heads. Lord Vishnu sits atop the heads of Sheshnaag, which sustains the entire cosmos, to keep the universe in its proper equilibrium.

The Curse on Shesh Naga

According to certain legends, a sage named Kashyap once cursed the 10 headed snake, Sheshnag. The sage cursed Sheshnaag to have a mortal birth in his next life since he was furious with him for eating his child.

The Sheshnag snake was born as a human in its next incarnation, but it retained its abilities and knowledge from the previous one. As a result, he developed into a renowned sage and spent his life in meditation and penance.

Symbolism & Significance of Sheshnaag

The story of Sheshnaag in Hindu mythology utilises the potent symbol known as Sheshnaag to represent various facets of the universe and its functioning. Following are a few of Sheshnaag’s primary symbolic representations:

Protection and Balance

Naga Sesha can balance and uphold the entire cosmos on its several heads. The support provided by its thousand heads keeps the cosmos from collapsing.

Power and Strength

Shesh Naga’s countless heads and coiling bodies represent its incredible power and strength. He is one of the most potent creatures in the world.

Transformation

Sheshnaag, symbolising change and renewal. It represents the destruction of the universe and the changes for a new creation.

Temples Devoted to Sheshnag snake

The temples of Sheshnaag show his importance in Indian traditions. People visit these shrines to seek blessings of protection, strength, and peace through serpent worship.

1. Sheshnag Temple, Jammu

The Sheshnag Temple, situated in Jammu, is adjacent to Sheshnag Lake. Devotees worship the serpent here for protection and guidance.

2. Sheshampadi Temple, Tamil Nadu

Located in Tamil Nadu, this ancient temple honours Shesh Naga. People pray for relief from fears of serpents and the well-being of their families.

3. Naganathswamy Temple, Tamil Nadu

This temple, located in Tamil Nadu, is dedicated to serpent Gods, including Shesh Naga. People worship here for fertility and protection.

4. Kukke Subhramanya Temple, Karnataka

In Karnataka, this temple is linked with serpent worship. The Sheshnag snake is honoured here for removing curses and ensuring prosperity.

Benefits of Worshipping Sheshnaag

Worshipping Shesh Naag is believed to remove fears, protect against negativity, and bring stability to life. Devotees seek peace, prosperity and divine strength through his blessings.

1. Protection from Negativity

People worship Sheshnaag for safety from evil forces. His blessings give courage and protection.

2. Family Harmony

Prayers to Sheshnaag are believed to bring unity in families. He blesses with peace at home.

3. Removal of Doshas

Worshipping the snake God, Adi Shesha, helps reduce serpent-related doshas in Astrology. Devotees find relief from struggles.

4. Strength and Patience

The Sheshnag snake symbolises inner strength. Worshippers gain calmness and patience in life.

5. Prosperity and Peace

His blessings his devotees with wealth, happiness and peace. People pray for a happier life.

Conclusion

The story of the Sheshnag snake connects devotion and strength. His endless form shows eternal patience. He protects creation with his power. People still worship him with faith and respect.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Lord vishnu snake name?

The Sheshnag Snake, also known as Adi Shesha, is the name of Lord Vishnu’s snake. Each of his thousand heads, which represent various powers or energies, is shown as a serpent in this image.

2. What is the curse on Sheshnaag?

The sage Kashyapa once cursed Sheshnag. The sage cursed Sheshnaag to have a mortal birth in his next life since he was furious with him for eating his child.

3. Is Sheshnaag worshipped in Hinduism?

In Hinduism, Sheshnaag represents strength, power, and protection. He has a large number of temples and shrines in India.

4. Why is Sheshnaag depicted with thousand heads?

Each of the 1,000 heads of Sheshnaag represents a distinct power or energy. This symbolises his limitless nature and capacity to support the entire cosmos on his hood.