The Karmic Governor: Lord Shani or Planet Saturn
The Karmic Governor: Lord Shani or Planet Saturn
This sculpture represents Lord Shani, a significant deity in Hindu mythology, revered as the personification of the planet Saturn. Known for his just and unwavering nature, Lord Shani is often depicted as a stern and disciplined figure, responsible for delivering justice based on one's deeds. In this detailed representation, Lord Shani is sculpted with four hands, each symbolically poised and holding different attributes that emphasize his divine authority and responsibilities.
The first hand gracefully holds a trishula (trident), symbolizing his ability to overcome darkness and ignorance. The second wields a sword, indicative of his role in cutting through deceit and falsehood. The third hand is raised reassuringly, often interpreted as a gesture of protection and blessing for those who follow the path of truth and righteousness. His fourth hand clasps the pages of a sacred text, underscoring his connection to the eternal laws of the cosmos. Accompanying him at his feet is a crow, traditionally considered his vahana (vehicle). The crow symbolizes many aspects, including the darker qualities associated with Shani such as mystery and the transformative cycles of life, reflecting his influence over karmic justice and the maturation of the soul.