Lord Sharabha
Lord Sharabha is an avatar of Lord Shiva, who incarnated in the most powerful form than a lion to pacify Lord Narasimha Swamy. Lord Sharabha appeared like a huge bird with wings and strong beak. Sharabha Jayanthi falls in Vaisakha mass. Sharabha JAyanthi is an auspicious occasion for shaivaites.
Legend of Sharabha Avatar of Lord Shiva:
After demolishing Demon Hiranyakashapa, Lord Narasimha was very ferocious, roaring with anger, and it was impossible to stop him for all Gods and even for Prahlad, for whom Lord Narayana incarnated as Lord Narasimha and destroyed Hiranyakashapa.
To make Lord Narasimha calm and peaceful or to pacify him, all Gods went to Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva manifested as Veerabhadra (one of the incarnations of Lord Shiva) and went to Lord Narasimha and asked him to be calm as he was an incarnated for Lok Kalyan (Universal peace). But Lord Narasimha refused Lord Veerabhadras words and told him to go away from the place.
Angered with Lord Narasimhas reply, Lord Veerabhadra spread his body up to the sky and spread all over the Universe. He made his lower half of the body as Sharabha (bird) and remained his upper half as it is.
Lord Sharabha (one of the incarnations of Lord Shiva), lifted Lord Narasimha with his tail and was about to hit him on to the space. Lord Narasimha realized his mistake and prayed to Lord Sharabha to forgive him. Sharabheswara knew that Lord Narasimha realized his mistake and will remain calm and forgiven Narasimha. Excited Narasimha removed his skin (Lions skin) and presented it to Lord Shiva. Thus, Lord Shiva was appeared in two avatars (Veerabhadra avatar and Sharabha avatar) to pacify Lord Narasimha.
Sharabha is a lesser-known but significant avatar of Lord Shiva in Hindu mythology, primarily recognized for its role in pacifying the fierce Narasimha, an avatar of Lord Vishnu. This form is often depicted as a powerful creature combining features of a lion and a bird, sometimes described as having eight legs and resembling a dragon or a man-eating bird
Background and Significance
The Context of Sharabha’s Appearance
The narrative surrounding Sharabha originates from the Shiva Purana and other texts. After Narasimha vanquished the demon king Hiranyakashipu, his wrath became uncontrollable, threatening the cosmos. The other gods, alarmed by his fury, sought Shiva’s intervention to restore balance.
The Transformation into Sharabha
In response to the chaos caused by Narasimha, Shiva first attempted to calm him through his form Virabhadra, which failed. Consequently, he transformed into Sharabha—an imposing entity with multiple limbs and formidable features—designed to subdue Narasimha’s rage
Description of Sharabha
Sharabha is characterized by:
- Physical Attributes: A hybrid form that includes aspects of a lion and a bird, often illustrated with wings and claws. It is described as having three fiery eyes and producing thunderous sounds
- Symbolism: Represents the combination of strength and ferocity, embodying Shiva’s power to restore order in the universe
The Encounter with Narasimha
In their confrontation, Sharabha overpowered Narasimha, ultimately leading to the latter’s submission. This encounter not only highlights the might of Shiva but also emphasizes the importance of humility and respect among the divine beings. After being subdued, Narasimha acknowledged Sharabha’s superiority and praised Shiva
Cultural Depictions
Sharabha is primarily venerated in southern India, where sculptures and temple art depict this avatar alongside Narasimha. These representations often illustrate the dramatic moment of their encounter, showcasing Sharabha’s dominance over Narasimha. In conclusion, Sharabha serves as a crucial figure in Hindu mythology, symbolizing the interplay between different divine powers and the necessity for balance in the cosmic order. Its story underscores themes of respect among deities and the protective aspects of Shiva’s nature.
Comparison of Sharabha with Other Avatars of Shiva
| Aspect | Sharabha | Bhairava | Nataraja | Ardhanarishvara |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Form | Part-lion, part-bird; often depicted with eight legs and multiple arms. | Fierce form, often depicted with a dog and a skull, symbolizing destruction and time | Lord of Dance; depicted in a cosmic dance posture, symbolizing creation and destruction | Half male (Shiva) and half female (Parvati), representing the unity of opposites |
| Purpose | To pacify Narasimha’s fury after he killed Hiranyakashipu | To protect devotees and destroy evil forces; often associated with the annihilation of ignorance | Represents the cosmic cycle of creation and destruction; symbolizes the rhythm of the universe | Symbolizes the balance between masculine and feminine energies |
| Cultural Significance | Primarily revered in southern India; highlights rivalry between Shaivism and Vaishnavism | Worshipped across India, especially in Shakti cults; emphasizes overcoming fear | Widely recognized in classical dance forms; represents the dynamic nature of existence | Celebrated for its philosophical implications regarding gender and duality in spirituality |
| Iconography | Often shown overpowering Narasimha, with a fierce appearance that includes wings and claws | Typically portrayed with a fierce expression, holding weapons, often with a dog companion | Depicted dancing within a ring of fire, surrounded by various deities and symbols of creation | Shown as a single figure split into two halves, adorned with symbols representing both deities |
Key Highlights
- Sharabha’s Role: Unlike other avatars that focus on protection or cosmic balance, Sharabha specifically addresses the aftermath of Narasimha’s actions, showcasing Shiva’s role as a mediator among deities.
- Physical Attributes: The hybrid nature of Sharabha emphasizes its ferocity and power, setting it apart from more human-like or abstract representations like Nataraja or Ardhanarishvara.
- Cultural Context: Sharabha is less recognized outside specific regions compared to other avatars like Nataraja or Bhairava, which have broader cultural significance across various sects.
In summary, while Sharabha shares the divine purpose of protection and balance typical of Shiva’s avatars, its unique narrative context and physical representation distinguish it within Hindu mythology.
How does the Sharabha Upanishad describe Sharabha’s power
The Sharabha Upanishad describes Sharabha as a powerful and formidable avatar of Lord Shiva, emphasizing his unique attributes and divine powers. Here are the key aspects of Sharabha’s power as depicted in the Upanishad and related texts:
Attributes of Sharabha’s Power
Physical Strength
- Mighty Form: Sharabha is described as having an imposing physique, often depicted with eight legs, a lion’s head, and bird-like wings. This combination signifies not only physical strength but also agility and dominance over other beings, surpassing even lions and elephants in power
- Ability to Fly: His wings enable him to soar through the skies, symbolizing transcendence over earthly limitations. This ability allows him to cover vast distances in a single leap, showcasing his speed and energy
Divine Purpose
- Pacification of Narasimha: The primary narrative surrounding Sharabha’s manifestation is his role in calming the fierce Narasimha, who became uncontrollably wrathful after slaying Hiranyakashipu. The Upanishad illustrates that Sharabha was not merely a creature of destruction but a divine mediator sent to restore balance and order in the universe
- Control Over Forces: Sharabha embodies both ferocity (Ugrata) and divinity (Ishvaratva), representing the duality of creation and destruction. His presence is said to hold sway over both the physical (Apara) and spiritual (Para) realms, indicating his comprehensive control over nature and cosmic forces
Symbolism of His Attributes
- Thunderous Voice: Sharabha’s voice is likened to thunder, which not only signifies power but also serves as a tool for instilling fear among adversaries. This characteristic ties him closely to Rudra, another form of Shiva known for his fierce aspects
- Vajra Paash: His tail is referred to as ‘Vajra Paash,’ symbolizing an unbreakable grip that can ensnare even the most powerful beings. This aspect emphasizes his role as a protector who can subdue chaos without resorting to violence
Spiritual Significance
- Siddhis Bestowed: Those who engage in sadhana (spiritual practice) dedicated to Sharabha are believed to attain various siddhis (spiritual powers), such as the ability to choose their birth in different realms (LokaMata Siddhi) and liberation from the cycle of birth and death (Kram Mukti Siddhi)
- Protector Against Evil: Sharabha is also seen as a vanquisher of evil forces, providing protection to devotees from negative influences and calamities. His worship is associated with fearlessness and strength, enabling followers to face life’s challenges with confidence
In conclusion, the Sharabha Upanishad portrays Sharabha as a complex avatar embodying immense power, wisdom, and the capacity for mediation between divine forces. His unique attributes not only highlight his physical prowess but also underscore his crucial role in maintaining cosmic order.
What is the significance of Sharabha’s eight legs
The significance of Sharabha’s eight legs in Hindu mythology is multifaceted, reflecting both physical prowess and deeper symbolic meanings. Here are the key aspects:
Physical Power and Dominance
- Enhanced Strength: Sharabha is described as more powerful than a lion or an elephant, and its eight legs contribute to this immense strength. The ability to clear a valley in one jump emphasizes its physical capabilities, showcasing it as a formidable force in the cosmic order
- Agility and Speed: The eight legs not only symbolize strength but also agility, allowing Sharabha to navigate various terrains swiftly. This agility is crucial in its role as a protector, enabling it to respond quickly to threats, such as pacifying the furious Narasimha
Symbolism of Balance and Control
- Duality of Nature: The presence of eight legs can be interpreted as representing balance between different forces. In some interpretations, the upper four legs symbolize the divine aspect of creation and control over the universe, while the lower four legs represent earthly power and ferocity . This duality reflects Sharabha’s role in maintaining cosmic balance.
- Representation of Realms: Each leg can also symbolize Sharabha’s ability to traverse multiple realms—both physical and spiritual. This aspect highlights its role as a guardian who operates across different dimensions of existence
Religious Context
- Pacification Role: Sharabha’s primary purpose was to pacify Narasimha, who had become uncontrollably wrathful after defeating Hiranyakashipu. The eight-legged form signifies that Sharabha possesses not only the power to overpower but also the wisdom to restore balance without unnecessary destruction
- Divine Intervention: The eight-legged form is a manifestation of Lord Shiva’s divine intervention, showcasing his ability to adapt and embody different forms to address cosmic disturbances effectively
Cultural Interpretations
- Iconography and Worship: In various texts, such as the Sharabha Upanishad and Kalika Purana, Sharabha is depicted with distinct features that emphasize its power. The eight legs are often associated with its fearsome appearance, making it an object of reverence and worship among devotees seeking protection from evil forces
In summary, Sharabha’s eight legs are not merely a physical characteristic but are deeply embedded in its mythological significance, symbolizing strength, balance, agility, and divine intervention in restoring cosmic harmony.
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Parampita Parmatma “Shiv” hai.
“Bramha,Vishnu,Mahesh” e tino dev shiv ne banaye, lekin mahesh jo hai use hi hum shivshankar kehte hai, to mahesh hi shiv Parmatma hai…
Om Namah: Shivay
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It was almighty, all powerful, shakthi-nath, god Sharabheshwara swamy who was carrying mata pratyangira and shoolini durga devi on his both wings. Lord Narasimha created lord gandabherunda from extreme anger who then came upon to attack sharabeshwara swamy while fighting with narasimha swamy. Then maa pratyangira came out of sharabeshwara’s wing and swallowed gandabherunda swamy. By this, lord narasimha got pacified and chanted sharabheshwara 108 names with which sharbha swamy got pacified and bestowed his boons and blessings to lord narasimha swamy.
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The great thing to remember from this story is its a leela of god rudra, who is mrityunjaya (wearing moon represents that he remains forever and ever).
first bad thing of Kaliyuga is to see difference between Hari hara..
Well yes Narsimha realized his blunder and elogized sharabheshwar dev with a astottarshatnam ,ythe story is in linga puran ,shiva purana and many tantras and agamas,
Sharabh is infact a vedic god ,there is one Sharabhopnishad too ,
But this story of pacifying narsimha this way i havent found in puran veda or tantra agam can u tell from where u took this story.
Superb reply sir.
God is one and only one , but we call him by different names.
He is the supreme.
Even correctly said. Even in shiv purana lord Shiva himself says that if anybody compares in between who is great in between shiva and Vishnu, they will go to hell. Its a big sin comparing between two gods(Shiva and Vishnu)
Nonsense
This is made up story, just to show narasimha as lesser powerful or weak. ( plz read till end before coming to any conclusion)
Actual story is as below which we were said as kids:
Narasimha after killing Hirankasipa was still carrying his anger,and none were ready to go near him, shiva to pacify and sends Veerabadhra who gets killed instantly,then sends more forms..all get killed brutally and Shiva take form of Sharba which has 2 heads, big wings representing Kali and Durga and tries to pacify Lord Narasimha but, Narasimha was in no mood to listen and take up the form of Asta mikha Ganda bherunda,(The Eight forms/faces of “Astamukha Gandaberunda” are (1)Gandabherunda Pakshi Raja (2)Nrisimha Mrugaraja (3)Maha vyaghra (4) Hayagriva (5) Adi Varaha (6) Aghora Vaanarendra (7) Maha Garuda (8) Bhalluka) they fight for 18 days and Gandabherunda caught hold of sharaba in his mouth and killed him.
Then Brahma and other demi gods had no other option and asked Prahalada to pacify, Prahlad went forward. There was nothing but love in his eyes. ‘My Lord! You have come to protect me…I knew you would come…’Looking at the face of Prahlad, Narasimha smiled, ‘Yes son! For you I have come!…’ Prahlad looked at his father’s body and looked at Narasimha, ‘Do not worry son! You do not know his story! He is my ex-doorkeeper Vijaya. He was born here because of a curse. After three more births he will attain his place back in Vaikunta.. .Do not worry about him…’
Prahlad nodded his head, ‘I want nothing more, my Lord!’
Narasimha shook his head, ‘No son! You are meant to rule your people. You will come to Vaikunta after you have completed your work on earth as your people’s ruler…’
Prahlada nodded his head once more. Prahlada became the benevolent ruler of the Asuras, who prospered during his reign and gave up there old cruel ways.
This is the story.
One more reference for all who feel i am wrong
Sarabha mean one who is perishable
Adi Shankaracharya , with the reference in the Sharabha Upanishad, refers to this 356th name of Vishnu sahasranama as not mentioning the lion-killing animal at all and instead interprets the name to mean, “As the Lord shines in the body as the indwelling Self, He is called Sharabha, while the body is sara (perishable)
So if sarabha the name itself means Perishable, how can he perish others?
Let me also suggest something.
None of these two (this page story and my side) are true..both were made up stories..Lets use some thing we all have in common..generally people call is common sense.
After killing the demon Lord Narasimha sat on throne of the demon and Prahalada who was already present ,However unafraid, Prahlad went forward. There was nothing but love in his eyes. ‘My Lord! You have come to protect me…I knew you would come…’and Lord Narasimha smiled, ‘Yes son! For you I have come!…
When he smiled,how can he be angry or unable to control anger?? Its a made up story of sarabha,etc by english who spoiled many such genuine Purans.
You all can do some min research and will find, englishman did his best to show our Satana dharma is cock and dick stories and their made up stories as correct.
Siva is the ultimate God, read mahabharat and see what bhagavan Sreekrishna telling about Shiva!!