Hari

Hari: A Comprehensive Overview of the Remover of Sins in Hinduism

Introduction

Hari, a significant name in Hinduism, is primarily used as a designation for Vishnu and his avatar Krishna. The term signifies “the remover of sins,” highlighting one of the core aspects of the deity’s role: to liberate devotees from the cycle of karma and guide them towards liberation (moksha). Hari is revered as the preserver of the universe and a protector of dharma (righteousness). Iconographically, Hari often appears in human form, adorned with royal garments, holding symbols of power and auspiciousness, and sometimes depicted with a blue complexion, reflecting his cosmic nature. His significance in Hinduism stems from his association with maintaining cosmic order, granting grace to his devotees, and embodying the divine qualities of love, compassion, and justice.

Etymology and Names

• Meaning and Origin of the Name: The name “Hari” is derived from the Sanskrit root hṛ, which means “to take away,” “to seize,” or “to remove.” In the context of Vishnu and Krishna, Hari specifically implies “the remover of sins,” “the one who takes away suffering,” and “the one who liberates from the cycle of birth and death.” The name emphasizes his role as a savior and a benevolent force.

• Other Names and Titles (with Meanings): Hari is often used interchangeably with Vishnu and Krishna, sharing many of their titles and epithets. Some significant related names include:

  • Vishnu: “The Pervader” or “The All-Pervading One,” referring to his omnipresence throughout the cosmos.
  • Krishna: “The Dark One” or “The All-Attractive One,” often associated with his charismatic personality and the color of his skin in some depictions.
  • Narayana: “The Abode of Man,” or “He Who Rests on the Waters,” referring to Vishnu’s cosmic slumber on the serpent Shesha during the intervals between cycles of creation.
  • Kesava: “The One with Beautiful Hair” or “The Slayer of Kesi,” a demon killed by Krishna.
  • Madhava: “Born of Sweetness” or “Consort of Lakshmi (Madhavi),” emphasizing his auspiciousness and divine connection to the goddess Lakshmi.
  • Govinda: “The Protector of Cows” or “The Finder of Cows,” often associated with Krishna’s pastoral life and care for all beings.
  • Jagannath: “Lord of the Universe,” a specific manifestation of Vishnu particularly venerated in Puri, Odisha.

Mythological Origins

• Birth or Manifestation Stories: As Vishnu, Hari’s origin is often described as self-manifested (Svayambhu) from the cosmic waters. He is seen as eternal and beginningless, existing before the creation of the universe. Krishna, as an avatar of Vishnu, is born to Devaki and Vasudeva in Mathura, amidst oppressive rule of Kamsa. His birth is shrouded in miraculous events, signifying his divine nature and destined role.

• Lineage: As Vishnu, Hari is generally not described as having parents in the conventional sense, as he is considered the eternal and uncreated source of the universe. In Vaishnavism, Lakshmi (or Sri) is often considered his consort, embodying wealth, prosperity, and auspiciousness. Brahma, the creator, is said to emerge from a lotus emanating from Vishnu’s navel, and Shiva, the destroyer, is considered an integral part of the Trimurti (the Hindu trinity). As Krishna, he belongs to the Yadu dynasty. He is raised by Nanda and Yashoda in Gokul, who become his foster parents. His brother is Balarama, and his sister is Subhadra.

Major Scriptures and References

• Mentions in Vedas, Upanishads, Puranas, epics (Mahabharata, Ramayana): While the name “Hari” itself might not be extensively used in the early Vedas, the deity’s attributes and functions are described through other names and concepts. Vishnu is mentioned in the Rigveda, emphasizing his cosmic strides that measure the universe. The Upanishads discuss the concept of Brahman, the ultimate reality, which Vishnu is often identified with. The Puranas, particularly the Vishnu Purana, Bhagavata Purana, and Brahma Purana, are replete with stories and details of Vishnu and his avatars, including Krishna. The epics, Mahabharata and Ramayana, feature Krishna and Rama respectively as central figures and avatars of Vishnu.

• Primary Source Texts or Hymns Associated with the God:

  • Vishnu Sahasranama: A hymn containing a thousand names of Vishnu, each name describing a specific attribute or aspect of the deity.
  • Bhagavad Gita: A part of the Mahabharata, where Krishna imparts profound philosophical teachings to Arjuna, revealing his divine nature and the path to liberation.
  • Vishnu Purana: A primary source for understanding Vishnu’s cosmology, avatars, and roles.
  • Bhagavata Purana: Devoted almost entirely to Vishnu and his avatars, particularly Krishna, providing elaborate details of his life and teachings.
  • Hymns by Alvars: The Tamil hymns composed by the Alvar saints are deeply devotional and offer rich poetic descriptions of Vishnu.

Roles and Functions

• Cosmic Roles: In the Hindu Trimurti (trinity), Hari (as Vishnu) is the preserver. His role is to maintain cosmic order (dharma), protect the universe from destruction, and ensure the continuation of life. This involves intervening when imbalances occur, often through avatars (incarnations).

• Association with dharma, karma, moksha, etc.: Hari is intrinsically linked to dharma, karma, and moksha. He upholds dharma by acting as a moral compass and intervening to restore righteousness when it is threatened. He is also intimately connected with the law of karma. Actions, whether good or bad, have consequences, and Hari provides the framework within which karma unfolds. Through devotion (bhakti) and adherence to dharma, devotees can seek liberation (moksha) from the cycle of birth and death, a state that Hari helps them attain.

Avatars and Manifestations

Vishnu is known for his avatars (incarnations), which descend to Earth to restore dharma and combat evil. The ten most well-known avatars are collectively known as the Dashavatara:

1. Matsya (Fish): Saves Manu from a great flood.
2. Kurma (Tortoise): Supports Mount Mandara during the churning of the ocean of milk.
3. Varaha (Boar): Rescues the Earth goddess Bhudevi from the demon Hiranyaksha.
4. Narasimha (Man-Lion): Kills the demon Hiranyakashipu who persecutes his son Prahlada.
5. Vamana (Dwarf): Outwits the demon king Bali and restores dominion to the gods.
6. Parashurama (Rama with an Axe): A warrior-priest who destroys tyrannical Kshatriyas.
7. Rama (The Ideal King): The protagonist of the Ramayana, embodying perfect righteousness and devotion.
8. Krishna (The Divine Statesman): A central figure in the Mahabharata, offering wisdom and guidance to Arjuna.
9. Buddha (The Enlightened One): A figure of peace and compassion, some interpretations place him as an avatar of Vishnu to reduce animal sacrifice, while others dispute this placement.
10. Kalki (The Destroyer of Evil): A future avatar who will appear at the end of the Kali Yuga to destroy evil and restore dharma.

Symbols and Iconography

• Typical Depictions in Art: Hari (as Vishnu or Krishna) is typically depicted in human form, often with a blue complexion, symbolizing his infinite and cosmic nature. He is usually shown wearing royal garments and jewelry, signifying his divine status. Common postures include standing (Samabhanga), reclining on Shesha (Anantashayana), or seated on a lotus.

• Symbolic Meanings of Objects Held or Worn:

  • Chakra (Discus): Symbolizes the power to destroy evil and maintain cosmic order.
  • Shankha (Conch Shell): Represents the primordial sound of creation (Om) and is blown during rituals to announce Vishnu’s presence.
  • Gada (Mace): Represents power, authority, and the ability to punish wrongdoing.
  • Padma (Lotus): Symbolizes purity, spiritual awakening, and the manifestation of the universe.
  • Kaustubha Mani (Gem): A precious jewel worn on Vishnu’s chest, representing consciousness and the manifestation of the universe.
  • Garuda (Eagle): Vishnu’s mount, symbolizing strength, devotion, and the swiftness with which Vishnu comes to the aid of his devotees.
  • Vanamala (Forest Garland): A garland of flowers, representing the beauty of nature and Vishnu’s connection to the natural world.

Temples and Worship

• Famous Temples in India and around the world:

  • Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangam: One of the largest functioning Hindu temples in the world, dedicated to Ranganatha (a reclining form of Vishnu).
  • Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, Tirupati: A highly revered temple dedicated to Venkateswara (another form of Vishnu).
  • Jagannath Temple, Puri: Famous for the annual Rath Yatra festival, dedicated to Jagannath (Lord of the Universe).
  • Dwarkadhish Temple, Dwarka: Dedicated to Krishna, a significant pilgrimage site.
  • ISKCON Temples: Temples of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness dedicated to Krishna, found globally.

• Common Rituals, Festivals, and Prayers:

  • Puja: Daily worship rituals involving offering flowers, incense, food, and prayers to the deity.
  • Bhajans and Kirtans: Devotional songs and chants praising Vishnu/Krishna.
  • Ekadashi: A bi-monthly fasting day dedicated to Vishnu.
  • Janmashtami: Celebrates the birth of Krishna.
  • Ram Navami: Celebrates the birth of Rama.
  • Diwali: Lakshmi Puja during Diwali honors Vishnu’s consort and seeks blessings for prosperity.
  • Rath Yatra: The chariot festival of Jagannath in Puri.

• Role in Daily Worship and Community Rituals: Hari is central to the daily worship of many Hindus, particularly Vaishnavas. Individuals often have personal shrines with images of Vishnu or Krishna, where they offer daily prayers and perform rituals. Community rituals often involve collective chanting, storytelling, and the celebration of festivals dedicated to Hari.

Cultural Impact

• Influence on Indian literature, art, dance, and music: Hari’s stories, attributes, and teachings have profoundly influenced Indian culture. His narratives form the basis of countless literary works, including the Ramayana, Mahabharata, Bhagavata Purana, and numerous regional adaptations. He is a common subject in Indian art, including paintings, sculptures, and temple architecture. Classical dance forms like Bharatanatyam, Kathak, and Odissi often depict stories of Vishnu and Krishna through expressive movements and gestures. Devotional music, including bhajans and kirtans, is dedicated to praising Hari and expressing devotion.

• Representation in modern media (movies, television, literature): Hari, particularly in the forms of Vishnu, Rama, and Krishna, continues to be represented in modern media. Numerous films and television series depict the epics of the Ramayana and Mahabharata, bringing the stories of these avatars to a wider audience. Modern literature also explores the themes and philosophies associated with Hari, often reinterpreting the traditional narratives for contemporary contexts.

Comparative Theology

• Comparisons with other deities (within Hinduism or across religions): Within Hinduism, Hari (as Vishnu) is often compared and contrasted with Shiva and Brahma as part of the Trimurti. While Brahma is the creator, Vishnu is the preserver, and Shiva is the destroyer. These three deities represent the cyclical nature of the universe. In Shaivism, Shiva is considered the supreme deity, while Vishnu is seen as a devotee. In Shaktism, the goddess Shakti is considered the supreme power, and Vishnu is seen as a devotee. Comparing Hari to deities in other religions is more complex and depends on the specific interpretations. Some scholars draw parallels between Vishnu’s avatars and the concept of incarnations in other traditions.

• Interpretations in different Hindu traditions (e.g., Shaivism, Vaishnavism, Shaktism): In Vaishnavism, Hari (as Vishnu) is considered the supreme deity and the ultimate reality. All other deities are seen as manifestations or aspects of Vishnu. In Shaivism, Shiva is the supreme deity, and Vishnu is considered an important devotee of Shiva. The relationship between Vishnu and Shiva is often portrayed as one of mutual respect and cooperation. In Shaktism, the goddess Shakti is the supreme power, and Vishnu is seen as one of her consorts or emanations.

Philosophical Interpretations

• How the deity is interpreted by different schools of Hindu philosophy (Vedanta, Samkhya, Bhakti, etc.): Different schools of Hindu philosophy offer diverse interpretations of Hari. In Advaita Vedanta, Hari (as Vishnu) is ultimately identified with Brahman, the non-dual reality. Maya (illusion) conceals the true nature of Brahman, and liberation is achieved through realizing one’s identity with Brahman. In Vishishtadvaita Vedanta, Hari (as Vishnu) is the supreme being with attributes, and the individual soul (jiva) is a part of and eternally dependent on Vishnu. Bhakti (devotion) is the primary means of attaining liberation. In Dvaita Vedanta, Hari (as Vishnu) is eternally distinct from the individual soul, and liberation is achieved through the grace of Vishnu. In Samkhya philosophy, Vishnu represents the Purusha (consciousness), while Prakriti (matter) is the source of the material world.

• Role in spiritual practices and metaphysical ideas: Hari plays a central role in various spiritual practices. Bhakti yoga (the path of devotion) is centered on cultivating love and devotion for Vishnu. Karma yoga (the path of action) involves performing selfless actions as an offering to Vishnu. Jnana yoga (the path of knowledge) aims to realize the oneness of the self with Vishnu through contemplation and understanding. In metaphysical terms, Hari represents the divine principle that sustains and governs the universe, providing a framework for understanding the nature of reality and the human condition.

This comprehensive overview provides a detailed understanding of Hari, his multifaceted role in Hinduism, and his enduring significance in religious, philosophical, and cultural contexts.