Was Kaartikeya or Shanmukha the Son of Lord Shiva or Agni?
The origins and parentage of Kaartikeya, also known as Shanmukha, have been a subject of fascinating mythological debate within Shaivite tradition. In Shaivite stories, Kaartikeya was born in a complex and atmospheric setting, often associated with the deities Rudra, Agni, and Parvati. This article delves into the various narratives and sources to clarify the parentage of Kaartikeya and Shanmukha, promoting a better understanding of Shaivite mythology.
Origins of Kaartikeya: A Mythological Deity
The child was born after Rudra entered Agni or Rudra was believed to have possessed Agni. This birth involved the energies of Rudra, Agni, Svaha (a form of Shakti energy), and the six wives (Shodasi) of the seven Rishis, collectively known as the Pleiades in Sanskrit#8211;Kritikas. The Pleiades, as mentioned, are represented in other religions such as Greek mythology.
In Greek religion, the Pleiades are associated with the Seven Star-nymph Sisters, akin to the Svaha and the six ladies. Similarly, in Norse religion, there is the theme of the Nine Mothers of Heimdallr, further reinforcing the complex web of celestial and mythological origins. Including Arundhati and Parvati as two additional significant ladies, we converge on a total of nine mothers, symbolizing the celestial birth of Skanda (Kaartikeya).
The Birth of Kaartikeya According to Skanda Purana
According to Skanda Purana, Kaartikeya was born to fulfill a crucial mission, that is, to destroy Tarakasur and liberate the Earth from his tyranny. However, the conception and birth of Kaartikeya were marked by unique circumstances. Devi Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva, had been cursed by Rati, the wife of Kamadeva (god of desire). This curse prevented Her from carrying a child in her womb. The solution arrived when Lord Shiva imparted His blinding, fiery seed to Lord Agni.
Unable to withstand the intense heat of the seed, Agni transferred the radiance to River Ganga, who then deposited it into a lake in the forest of Sara Vana. It was in this holy lake that Kaartikeya emerged, bearing the name Saravana with six faces#8211;Eesanam, Sathpurusham, Vamadevam, Agoram, Satyojatham, and Adhomugam. This name, Shanmuga or Shadaanana, reflected his six-faced aspect.
Parentage and Caretakers of Lord Kaartikeya
Lord Kaartikeya was cared for by six women, symbolizing the Pleiades or Kritikas in Sanskrit. These women nurtured Him, and thus He came to be known by the name Kartika. A perpetual youth, Kaartikeya is also referred to as Kumar, denoting His youthful state. His six faces were significant, with the first five symbolizing Shiva as the Bhootanaadha (Lord of the Elements), and the sixth face representing Goddess Shakti or Parvati, reflecting the divine union of Lord and Lady.
The Wisdom and Significance of Lord Kaartikeya
Blessed with immense wisdom, Kaartikeya explained the meaning of the Pranava Mantra Om through twelve crore verses. This confluence of wisdom and divinity made Lord Shiva and Parvati exceedingly proud of Their son. Kaartikeya's titles reflect different facets of His personality and attributes:
Yogiishvaro Mahaa-Senah Kartekayo Agni- Nandanah
Skandah Kumaarah Senaaniih Svaamii Shankara Sambavah
This verse translates to: "Oh Lord Kartikeya the Master Yogi known as Mahasena the Son of Agni and as Kartikeya as the son of the six Kritis. You are referred as Skanda as son of Goddess Parvati and as Kumara when revered as son of Ganga's. You are the leader of the army of Devas our Master and Born of God Shiva."
The article emphasizes the complex mythological parentage of Kaartikeya and Shanmukha, reinforcing the importance of understanding the rich cultural and religious backgrounds behind these deities.