The Eight Vasus: Deities of Ancient Hindu Mythology Explained

Introduction to the Vasus

The term "Vasu" in ancient Hindu scriptures refers to a group of eight divine beings that symbolize the fundamental elements and energies that sustain the universe. The concept of Vasus is rooted in Vedic mythology and forms an intricate part of Hindu spiritual and philosophical texts. In The Brihadaranyaka Upanishad, Vasus are described as deities who are essential for the functioning of the universe. This article explores the identities of the Vasus, their roles, and the profound meanings embedded in their mythological representations.

The Eight Vasus in Brief

The eight Vasus are:

Dhara (Earth) Anala (Fire) Anila (Air) Aha (Sky/Sky Air) Dyu (Atmosphere) Soma (Sun) Dhruva (Pole Star) Pratyusha (Pre-Dawn Light)

These deities are central to the Vedic pantheon of the 33 Gods. Each Vasu represents a specific aspect of nature and the cosmos, and their significance goes beyond just being deities. They embody the forces that govern various aspects of human life and the abstract principles behind physical phenomena. Understanding the Vasus is not just an exercise in mythological lore but a profound method for understanding the fundamental energies that influence us.

The Roles of the Vasus

Dhara (Earth)

Dhara, the power of holding and supporting, is the first among the Vasus. In simple terms, Dhara is the power to hold thoughts and maintain focus. Practitioners can enhance this power through visualization techniques, allowing them to hold onto their thoughts and ideas more strongly.

Anala (Fire)

Anala, the power to shape thoughts, is associated with the recognition and manifestation of ideas. Similar to Analā, the fire god, the disciple or practitioner develops this power to recognize and understand the essence of what they are grasping. This can be likened to the realization that what we seek is already within us.

Anila (Air)

Anila is about recalling information or states at the right time. It's like the wind that dries clothes when conditions are right. Karna, in the epic Mahabharata, failed because he could not recall his guru's teachings when needed, leading to his defeat. Cultivating Anila helps in recall and recognition, especially in stressful or critical moments.

Aha (Sky/Sky Air)

Aha, the atmospheric or sky air, symbolizes the emotional atmosphere surrounding thoughts. Through Aha, one learns to separate from and observe their moods, akin to understanding the mood of a thought and its source. This practice helps in maintaining emotional balance and clarity.

Dyu (Atmosphere/Seen Twilight)

Dyu, or seen twilight, represents the subtle causes behind thoughts. It is the apparent cause behind every manifestation of consciousness. Practitioners seek to understand the root causes of their thoughts and actions, aligning them with higher ideals.

Soma (Sun)

Soma, the moon, reflects the stories of the sun, representing the effect of our highest ideals on thought. Soma serves as an analogy for the light of the self, much like the moon reflects the light of the sun. It emphasizes the importance of reflecting on and internalizing our ideals.

Dhruva (Pole Star)

Dhruva, the pole star, helps in churning thoughts around a central theme or concept. It acts as a focal point for disparate thoughts, helping us derive meaning and coherence from the chaos of the mind. This is similar to the nucleus of a cell, providing a central point of organization.

Pratyusha (Pre-Dawn Light)

Pratyusha is the ability to maintain thoughts between cycles, particularly between the end of night and the beginning of day. This practice involves holding attention in various gaps, such as between inhalation and exhalation or between thoughts. It helps in maintaining a continuous thought process and a higher level of awareness.

Conclusion and Coda

The practice of governing the eight Vasus goes beyond mere mythology. It is a deeply philosophical and spiritual practice that helps in understanding and managing the complex forces within ourselves. By studying and practicing the attributes of the Vasus, one can enhance their cognitive and emotional capabilities, leading to a more balanced and harmonious life. While some may view these narratives as myths, the underlying principles contain profound insights. The Vasus are not merely deities but embodiments of subtle energies that govern our existence. Understanding and harnessing these energies can transform one's life, making the practice of yoga and meditation more effective. In conclusion, the Vasus offer a rich spiritual framework for those seeking deeper insights into the workings of the mind and the universe.