Surya - The Sun God with His Seven Horses & Aruna
Surya - The Sun God with His Seven Horses & Aruna
Surya is one of the chief deities in Hinduism, revered as the dispeller of darkness and the harbinger of light. He is considered the life-giver, nourishing the earth with his rays and controlling the seasons and the day-night cycle. In Hindu scriptures, he is often depicted riding a chariot across the sky, illuminating the world below.The seven horses are said to represent the seven days of the week, or alternatively, the seven colors of a rainbow or the seven chakras in the human body. They emphasize the omnipresence and omnipotence of Surya, showcasing his control over time and the natural world.The charioteer steering the horses of Surya's chariot is known as Aruna.Aruna is not just any charioteer; he has a significant role in Hindu mythology. He is the elder brother of Garuda, the divine eagle and vehicle of Lord Vishnu. Due to a curse, Aruna was born without legs, and thus, he became the charioteer of Surya, symbolizing the reddish hue of the dawn (Aruna translates to 'red' or 'ruddy' in Sanskrit).