Significance of Mitra and Varuna
In Hinduism, Mitra and Varuna are significant deities representing power, cosmic order, and protection. They symbolize duality through their associations with lunar phases and productivity, serving as the moral and ethical overseers of sacrificial rites. Recognized as directors who embody virtues of friendship and nobility, these deities receive offerings for their blessings during rituals. With deep connections to the spiritual journey, Mitra represents intelligence while Varuna embodies will, both crucial in maintaining harmony and safeguarding relationships in various contexts of Hindu mythology.
In Dutch: Mitra en Varuna; In Finnish: Mitra ja Varuna; In Spanish: Mitra y Varuna; In German: Mitra und Varuna
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Mitra and Varuna'
Mitra and Varuna in Hinduism symbolize cosmic order, friendship, and moral integrity. Revered during sacrificial rites, they embody essential virtues and provide protection, reflecting dual aspects linked to the lunar phases and broader spiritual significance.
From: Gobhila-grihya-sutra
(1) Deities to whom a specific oblation is offered using a verse from the Sama-veda.[1] (2) Deities invoked in the rituals, representing friendship, harmony, and cosmic order.[2] (3) Deities referenced in the ceremony whose names are invoked during a specific verse.[3]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) Deities invoked to provide support and guidance, as allies during the ritual.[4] (2) Deities invoked for protection and law, mentioned in the context of establishing a firm boundary in the sacrificial setting.[5] (3) Two deities recognized as important guardians within the sacrificial rites, noted for their protective qualities.[6]
From: Sankhayana-grihya-sutra
(1) Deities in Hindu mythology associated with the concepts of friendship, cosmic order, and protection.[7] (2) Two divine figures invoked during the ritual, symbolizing harmony and moral order, along with their counterparts, the Ashvins and Indra.[8]
From: Asvalayana-grihya-sutra
(1) Deities called upon for safety and protection, indicating their significance in providing support against enemies.[9] (2) Two deities from the Rig-veda invoked in verses recited by the Purohita to seek their favor and protection.[10]
From: Paraskara-grihya-sutra
(1) Deities referenced in the context of men embodying virtues associated with Mitra and Varuna.[11]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) Deities representing temporal aspects of life, involved in the legislation and approval during rituals.[12] (2) Deities who are anointed during the ritual with the essence-filled waters for their blessings.[13] (3) Deities represented during the new-moon sacrifices, signifying dual aspects connected to the lunar phases and productivity.[14] (4) Deities representing the states of out-breathing and in-breathing, bestowed upon creatures during the sacrificial rites.[15] (5) Deities associated with the Maitravaruna, revered as significant figures in the context of the sacrificial rites.[16]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) The gods to whom Manu offered sacrifices, seeking progeny.[17]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) The deities referenced in relation to Agastya's divine lineage.[18]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) Deities to whom gratitude is expressed for safeguarding the relationship between teacher and disciple.[19] (2) Deities invoked within the practice outlined in the text, each holding significance in the spiritual journey.[20]