Mix of history with pre-history:
In the previous article we discussed the common thread among Purana – “Manvantara” (Reign of Manu) and in this article, we will discuss the common thread – “Vamsanucarita” (stories of the kings and sages).
The “Vamsanucarita” section of the Puranas offers a unique blend of history, pre-history, mythology, and philosophy. While the original esoteric meanings of many stories may have been lost over time, they continue to provide valuable insights into ancient Indian cosmology, history, spirituality, and social values.
Observers of Cosmic Events:
The Puranas often depict legendary kings and sages as witnesses to significant cosmic events. Puranic characters like Manu and Priyavrata aren’t simply historical kings in the traditional sense. Their stories are allegorical, conveying deeper truths about consciousness and the cosmos.
Higher conscious beings: These characters aren’t just people; they represent elevated levels of consciousness, far beyond ordinary human experience. The events they participate in (the deluge, the creation of continents) are a mix of historical events with their subjective experience. Essentially, their stories are metaphors for how consciousness interacts with and understands the universe.
Cosmic transformation: These figures, like King Shraddhadeva (Vaivasvata Manu) witnessing the deluge, or King Priyavrata participating in the creation of continents, are often interpreted as symbolic representations of higher states of consciousness experiencing profound cosmic transformations. Their experiences, whether through meditation, divine intervention, or other means, gave them a unique perspective on reality.
The stories are not meant to be taken as literal historical accounts. Instead, they are intended to convey profound philosophical and spiritual truths about the nature of consciousness and the universe. These figures serve as archetypes, representing the potential for human consciousness to transcend ordinary limitations and gain access to higher realms of understanding. It’s a way of expressing complex cosmological concepts through narrative and symbolism.
Loss of Esoteric Meanings:
Over millennia, the original esoteric meanings of these stories have become obscured due to:
Interpolation, extrapolation and adaptation: Continuous additions and modifications to the original texts led to the inclusion of later legends and folk tales. For example, the current version of Vishnu Purana and the Matsya Purana mention Nanda dynasty. However, the established history suggests than Nanda dynasty was established only 3500 years ago, which is clearly the beginning of classical historical period in India.
Fable Stories: The blending of Puranic narratives with other forms of literature, such as fables and classical poems, further diluted the original esoteric meanings. For example, The “Sthala Purana” of the Azhagiya Manavala Perumal Temple in Uraiyur (Woraiyur), explains the Puranic background of the temple. It suggests that Ma Laxmi incarnated as child and became daughter of King Nanda Chola. She married Ranganatha – the Lord Vishnu appearing as a beautiful groom. Hence the temple is known as Azhagiya Manavala Perumal (Lord as beautiful groom) Temple. However, the historical account of Chola dynasty starts with Tamil Sangam literature – about 3000 years ago which is – again- well within the classical historical period in India.
Influence of classical literature: Kalidasa, in his epic poem “Kumarasambhava” poetically narrates the story of the birth of “Kartikeya” as son of Shiva and Parvati. In this most celebrated work of Kalidasa, he contemporises the story to reflect the values and ideals of the Gupta period. Such artistic freedom can be seen across classical Sanskrit literature and many poets contemporize Puranic stories. Due to this, the system for understanding esoteric meanings of these stories – have been diluted substantially over millennia.
Regional folklore: SageAgastya is revered as a cultural hero, a progenitor of Tamil language and literature, and a significant figure in the region’s history and mythology. He is often seen as a symbol of Tamil identity and cultural pride. According to the Skanda Purana, the river originated when Ganesha, in the form of a crow, accidentally knocked over the “kamandala” of Sage Agastya. The water that spilled from the pot formed the Kaveri River. Similarly, many geographical changes are weaved into the stories of folklore and have made their way into Puranas.
A Striking Departure:
This Puranic approach differs significantly from many other mythological traditions.
Other mythologies may focus more on the actions of gods and goddesses, while the Puranas utilize these stories as vehicles for exploring deeper metaphysical concepts.
In conclusion:
As Sadhaka in the path of spiritual progress, our aim should be to grasp the esoteric meaning of Puranas and enjoy the richness in cultural & linguistic traditions. Sri Madhwacharya’s Bhagavata Tatparya Nirnaya is a guiding beacon in exploring the dense forest of Puranic literature and it is recommended to those who wish to explore such forest.
Vedic Tribe is happy to have brought these five essential common threads among Puranas. Our intention is to create enough curiosity in you to enable you to study Puranic literature and adopt their teachings in your day-to-day life.
All the best.
Madhwesh K
Vedic Tribe
