Ashvins

Introduction

The Ashvins, are two Vedic gods in Hindu mythology who are associated with horses, healing, and medicine. They are considered to be among the most ancient of the Hindu gods and are mentioned in the Rigveda, which is one of the oldest sacred texts of Hinduism.

Etymology and Epithets

The word Ashvin is derived from the Sanskrit word "ashva" meaning horse. They are also referred to as the "Nasatya" meaning "helpers". This epithet reflects their role as the gods of medicine who provide help and healing to those in need.

Origin and Nature

Mythology suggests, Ashwins are the sons of Saranya and Sun. Ashvins were born when Saranya and Surya mated disguised as a mare and stallion respectively. Thus, they have a head of horse and the body of human.

They are depicted as handsome and youthful gods who ride on horses or in a chariot drawn by horses. They are known for their speed and agility, and are often associated with the dawn and the rising sun.

They are also considered to be skilled healers and are sometimes called upon to cure illness or to perform other acts of healing. They are also said to have helped the god Indra in his battles against demons, and to have aided other gods and mortals in various ways.

Legends and Literature

There are many legends and stories associated with the Ashvins. Here are some of the most well-known legends of the Ashvins −

The Birth of the Ashvins: According to one legend, the Ashvins were born to the sage Dadhichi and his wife. Dadhichi initially rejected the twins, thinking they were not his children, but later accepted them when they proved their divine nature.

The Cure of Chyavana: In another legend, the Ashvins were called upon to cure the sage Chyavana, who had been cursed with old age by the gods. The Ashvins brought him to a nearby lake, where they restored his youth and vigor by immersing him in the water.

The Rescue of Bhujyu: In yet another legend, the Ashvins rescued the mortal Bhujyu, who had fallen into the ocean after his ship was wrecked in a storm. The Ashvins arrived on horseback and saved Bhujyu from drowning.

The Gift of the Chariot: In another story, the Ashvins were gifted a magical chariot by the god Indra. The chariot was said to be able to travel at incredible speeds and to carry the Ashvins to any destination they desired.

The Horse of Uchchaihshravas: In Hindu mythology, the Ashvins are also associated with the horse Uchchaihshravas, which is said to have emerged from the churning of the ocean of milk. The Ashvins are sometimes depicted riding on Uchchaihshravas, and are said to have helped to care for the horse and keep it healthy.

Origin and Equivalents

There are no direct equivalents to the Ashvins in other mythologies. However, there are some other gods or deities in various mythologies who share some characteristics or functions with the Ashvins.

• For example, in Greek mythology, Asclepius (also known as Aesculapius) was the god of medicine and healing, and was often depicted holding a staff with a serpent entwined around it, which has become the modern symbol of medicine. Like the Ashvins, Asclepius was associated with healing and was often called upon to cure illnesses and injuries.

In Roman mythology, the goddess Aurora (also known as Eos) was associated with the dawn and was often depicted as a beautiful woman with rosy fingers who drove a chariot across the sky to bring the dawn. Like the Ashvins, she was also associated with new beginnings and was often called upon to bring blessings and good fortune.

While there are no direct equivalents to the Ashvins in other mythologies, the themes of healing, medicine, and the dawn are universal, and can be found in many cultures and mythologies around the world.

Relation to Astrology

The Ashvins are often associated with the zodiac sign of Gemini. This is because the Ashvins are considered to be twin gods, and the zodiac sign of Gemini is also represented by a pair of twins.

The Zodiac Sign Gemini

The zodiac sign Gemini relates to the twin Gods, Ashvins

In addition to Gemini, the Ashvins are also associated with the nakshatras (lunar mansions) of Ashwini, which is the first nakshatra in Vedic astrology, and is associated with new beginnings, healing, and rejuvenation. The Ashvins are considered to be the lords of the Ashwini nakshatra, and are believed to bring blessings and good fortune to those born under this nakshatra.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Ashvins are an important part of Hindu mythology and culture. They are revered as the gods of medicine, fertility, and agriculture and are believed to bring health, prosperity, and happiness to the world. Their depiction as youthful, handsome twins riding horses with golden manes and wielding weapons reflects their association with the morning and evening twilight and their role as the bringers of dawn and dusk. They are a symbol of hope and healing in Hindu mythology and are worshipped for their ability to restore health and fertility.

FAQs

Q1. Are Ashvins related to Pandavs?

Ans. Yes, according to Mahabharata, Nakul and Sahadev, the twin Pandavs were the sons Ashwini Kumars. They were blessed with the divine knowledge of medicine and healed Karna when he gave up his protective shield.

Q2. What is the significance of the golden mane on the horses of the Ashvins?

Ans. The golden mane on the horses of the Ashvins symbolizes their association with the sun and the dawn. The golden mane is believed to represent the light and radiance of the sun.

Q3. How are the Ashvins worshipped in Hinduism?

Ans. The Ashvins are worshipped in Hinduism through offerings, prayers, and rituals. Offerings of flowers, fruits, and sweets are made to them to receive their blessings and protection.