Chandra

Chandra: The Lunar Deity in Hinduism

Introduction

Chandra, also known as Soma, is the Hindu god of the Moon. He is a significant celestial deity influencing the mind, emotions, and fertility. He is one of the Navagrahas (nine celestial bodies central to Hindu astrology) and is considered a benevolent god, associated with beauty, coolness, and tranquility. Chandra’s influence is felt in the cyclical changes of nature and is vital in determining auspicious timings for various activities according to Hindu tradition. His energy is believed to be calming and restorative, making him an important figure in both religious and astrological practices.

Chandra is often depicted as a young, handsome god, dressed in white, holding a mace and riding a chariot drawn by a white antelope or ten white horses. He is also sometimes shown carrying a lotus flower or a vessel containing amrita (the nectar of immortality). His luminous form symbolizes purity and clarity.

Etymology and Names

• Chandra: The name “Chandra” (चन्द्र) is derived from the Sanskrit root chand, meaning “to shine” or “to be bright.” This reflects his association with the luminous quality of the moon.

• Soma: Another prominent name for the lunar deity is “Soma” (सोम). While sometimes used interchangeably with Chandra, Soma also refers to the sacred, intoxicating ritual drink used in Vedic sacrifices. In the Vedas, Soma is personified as both the deity and the plant from which the drink is derived.

• Indu: Meaning “bright drop,” this name alludes to the moon’s cool and radiant light.

• Shashanka: Translates to “one who bears the mark of a hare.” The dark patches on the moon’s surface are often interpreted as the shape of a hare.

• Rajnikanth: Literally meaning “king of the night,” highlighting his reign over the nocturnal sky.

• Himanshu: Meaning “whose rays are cold,” referring to the cooling effect of the moon’s light.

• Nakshatranatha: “Lord of the Stars” or “Lord of the constellations,” emphasizing his celestial dominance.

Mythological Origins

The Puranas contain various accounts of Chandra’s origin. One of the most common stories is:

• Samudra Manthan: During the churning of the cosmic ocean (Samudra Manthan) by the gods (Devas) and demons (Asuras) in pursuit of amrita, Chandra emerged from the ocean along with Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity, and Dhanvantari, the physician of the gods. He immediately secured a prominent place among the deities due to his inherent brilliance and soothing nature.

• Lineage: According to some Puranas, Chandra is considered the son of the sage Atri and Anasuya. Another version states he emerged from the eyes of the sage Atri. He is also considered the progenitor of the Chandra Vamsa, the lunar dynasty of kings, which includes prominent figures like Krishna. Chandra is married to the twenty-seven daughters of Daksha, who are personifications of the twenty-seven Nakshatras (lunar mansions) in Hindu astrology. Among them, he favored Rohini, leading to Daksha’s curse that Chandra would wane. Shiva intervened, limiting the curse to cycles of waxing and waning. His son is Budha (the planet Mercury) through his affair with Tara, the wife of Brihaspati (Jupiter).

Major Scriptures and References

• Vedas: Soma, as the deity and the ritual drink, is extensively praised in the Rigveda. Entire mandalas (books) are dedicated to Soma, highlighting his importance in Vedic rituals and cosmology. The Atharvaveda also contains hymns dedicated to Soma, seeking health and prosperity.

• Upanishads: While not as explicitly emphasized as in the Vedas, the Upanishads reference the moon in the context of cosmology and the cycle of birth and death. The Chandogya Upanishad mentions the moon as a gateway to the afterlife.

• Puranas: The Puranas, such as the Vishnu Purana, Brahma Purana, and Bhagavata Purana, provide detailed accounts of Chandra’s origin, lineage, and activities. These texts often delve into the stories of his relationship with Tara, his curse, and his role in various cosmic events.

• Epics: The Mahabharata and Ramayana mention Chandra in various contexts. The lunar dynasty (Chandra Vamsa) is central to the lineage of several important characters in the Mahabharata, including the Pandavas and the Kauravas. In the Ramayana, the moon is often used as a symbol of beauty and tranquility.

Roles and Functions

• Cosmic Roles: Chandra governs the celestial sphere during the night. He regulates the tides and influences the growth of plants and animals. His cooling and refreshing energy balances the heat of the sun, maintaining the equilibrium of the universe.

• Influence on the Mind and Emotions: Chandra is deeply associated with the human mind (Manas) and emotions. He governs intuition, sensitivity, and the subconscious. Astrologically, the placement of Chandra in a birth chart is crucial in determining a person’s emotional nature and mental well-being. A strong and well-placed Chandra indicates emotional stability and a balanced mind, while an afflicted Chandra may suggest emotional instability and mental challenges.

• Association with Dharma, Karma, Moksha: Although not directly linked to Dharma, Karma, and Moksha as some other deities (like Shiva and Vishnu), Chandra’s influence on the mind indirectly affects a person’s actions (Karma) and their journey towards spiritual liberation (Moksha). A stable and clear mind, facilitated by Chandra’s grace, enables individuals to make righteous decisions (Dharma) and pursue spiritual growth.

Avatars and Manifestations

Chandra is not typically associated with avatars or incarnations in the same way as deities like Vishnu or Shiva. His influence is more consistently understood as a celestial force rather than a deity who descends to Earth in various forms.

Symbols and Iconography

• White Color: Represents purity, peace, and serenity, reflecting the moon’s cool and soothing light.

• Chariot: Drawn by a white antelope (representing restlessness of the mind) or ten white horses (symbolizing the senses), illustrating the need to control the mind and senses.

• Mace (Gada): Symbolizes strength and control over the mind and emotions.

• Lotus Flower: Represents purity, enlightenment, and spiritual awakening. The lotus emerging from muddy waters symbolizes the ability to rise above worldly attachments.

• Vessel of Amrita: A vessel filled with the nectar of immortality symbolizes the life-giving and nourishing qualities of the moon.

Temples and Worship

• Famous Temples:

  • Somnath Temple, Gujarat, India: One of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Shiva, where Chandra is believed to have worshipped Shiva to be freed from a curse.
  • Thirupathi Chandra Mouleeswarar Temple, Tamil Nadu, India: A temple dedicated to Chandra, where he is worshipped as the main deity.
  • Many temples dedicated to the Navagrahas also feature Chandra as one of the key deities.

• Common Rituals and Festivals:

  • Chandra Darshan: Observing the new moon and offering prayers.
  • Chandra Grahan: During lunar eclipses, special prayers and rituals are performed to appease Chandra.
  • Soma Pradosha: Observing Pradosha Vrat (fast) on Mondays (associated with the moon) to seek blessings from Shiva and Chandra.
  • Chandra Puja: Specific Vedic rituals and mantras are chanted to invoke Chandra’s blessings, especially for those with afflicted Chandra in their birth charts.

• Role in Daily Worship and Community Rituals: Chandra is often invoked in daily prayers, especially before bedtime, seeking peace of mind and restful sleep. His influence is considered when determining auspicious timings for weddings, childbirth ceremonies, and other significant life events. Mantras dedicated to Chandra are frequently chanted to calm the mind and promote emotional well-being.

Cultural Impact

• Indian Literature: Chandra is a recurring motif in Indian poetry, literature, and drama. He is often used as a symbol of beauty, romance, and the ephemeral nature of life.

• Indian Art: Depictions of Chandra are found in various forms of Indian art, including sculptures, paintings, and temple carvings. He is usually portrayed as a handsome deity, radiating a gentle light.

• Indian Dance and Music: Chandra’s influence is reflected in Indian classical dance and music, where emotions and moods are often expressed through gestures and melodies that evoke the lunar qualities of peace, serenity, and longing. Ragas like “Chandranandan” and “Ahir Bhairav” are associated with the moon.

• Modern Media: Chandra is portrayed in various forms of modern media, including movies, television series, and literature. Often depicted as a benevolent and romantic figure, his stories are adapted to explore themes of love, loss, and redemption.

Comparative Theology

• Within Hinduism:

  • Relationship with Shiva: Chandra is often associated with Shiva, as Shiva wears the crescent moon on his head, symbolizing control over time and the mind. The Soma/Chandra connection also relates to the Vedic tradition where Soma rituals were central to invoking divine blessings.
  • Relationship with Vishnu: Vishnu’s consort, Lakshmi, emerged with Chandra from the churning of the ocean, signifying a harmonious relationship between prosperity and lunar influence. Krishna, an avatar of Vishnu, is also considered part of the Lunar dynasty (Chandra Vamsa).
  • Relationship with other Navagrahas: Chandra is one of the nine planets (Navagrahas) and is often worshipped alongside the other celestial deities.

• Across Religions: Similar lunar deities exist in various cultures. For example:

  • Selene (Greek) / Luna (Roman): Goddesses of the Moon, sharing similar attributes with Chandra.
  • Sin (Mesopotamian): The Mesopotamian moon god, also associated with time and the cycle of life.
  • Chang’e (Chinese): The Chinese moon goddess, known for her beauty and grace.

Philosophical Interpretations

• Vedanta: In Advaita Vedanta, Chandra can be viewed as an aspect of Brahman, the ultimate reality. The moon’s illusory appearance, constantly waxing and waning, can symbolize the transient nature of the phenomenal world (Maya).
• Samkhya: In Samkhya philosophy, Chandra represents the “Manas” (mind), one of the aspects of Prakriti (primordial nature). Chandra’s influence on the mind highlights the importance of controlling the senses and emotions to achieve liberation.
• Bhakti: In Bhakti traditions, Chandra is revered as a benevolent deity who can grant peace of mind and emotional well-being. Devotees often seek Chandra’s blessings through prayers, rituals, and devotional songs to cultivate inner peace and foster a harmonious relationship with the divine.

In conclusion, Chandra, the lunar deity, occupies a vital position in Hindu cosmology, mythology, and religious practices. His association with the mind, emotions, and cyclical changes underscores his significance in shaping human experience and influencing the course of life. His worship and veneration continue to be integral aspects of Hindu culture, reflecting the enduring reverence for the celestial forces that govern the universe.