Author: Couture, André

Source: Journal of Indian Philosophy, Volume 34, Number 6, December 2006 , pp. 571-585(15)

Publisher: Springer

Abstract:

There are good reasons to think that Vāsudeva, Sakaraa, Pradyumna and Aniruddha already form a sort of implicit tetrad in the HV. The aim of this paper is to draw attention to often overlooked data related to this tetrad. (1) Upon first reading, the sequence of the HV episodes appears to be somewhat disconnected, and might lead one to conclude that no such grouping of these figures had as of yet taken place. Nevertheless, a closer look at the structure of the text makes it clear that these four characters are one of the main focuses of the narrator's interest. (2) The relationships of these four heroes to one another and to other deities will be examined. In addition to their close kinship, these heroes with the exception of Aniruddha, are also said to be incarnations of other entities; thus the logic underpinning this grouping must be located at this other level. (3) Considered against the backdrop of the entire HV, one realizes that a basic pattern is established in which the presence of the goddess, under various names and functions, is required not only to facilitate Sakaraa's and Kra's births and actions on earth, but also the actions of Pradyumna and Aniruddha. In fact, neither Kra Vāsudeva, nor Sakaraa, nor Pradyumna nor Aniruddha can act entirely independently of her assistance. (4) The HV does not employ the word vyūha in connection with the group of Vāsudeva, Sakaraa, Pradyumna and Aniruddha. Nevertheless, during the battle waged to deliver Aniruddha, the idea of vyūha is present even if the word itself is not. HV 110.47-49 describes a true trivyūha composed of three fighters (Vāsudeva, Sakaraa and Pradyumna), who are arranged in such a way as to protect one another. The episode of Aniruddha's liberation appears to be the missing link, showing clearly that at least Kra, Sakaraa and Pradyumna are capable of assuming a vyūha as they fight the Rudraic forces.

Keywords: Kra; Vāsudeva; Sakaraa; Pradyumna; Aniruddha; Vyūha

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10781-006-9009-x

Affiliations: 1: Email: Andre.Couture@ftsr.ulaval.ca

Publication date: 2006-12-01

Related content

• In this: publication
• By this: publisher
• In this Subject: Philosophy
• By this author: Couture, André

Website © Publishing Technology. Article copyright remains with the publisher, society or author(s) as specified within the article.

• Terms and conditions
• Privacy policy
• Information for advertisers