Elements of Hindu Iconography v1.c12.20

v1.c12.20

This meaning is variously described in several Sanskrit works. For instance, the *Vishnu-purāna* says that the *gadā* represents the *Sānkhya* principle called *buddhi* and the *śankha* indicates the principle *ahankāra* viewed in relation to the *bhūta-tanmātras* (in the material aspect): the *manas* (mind) and its changeability is represented by the *chakra*, which is besides an emblem of power. The *bāṇa* symbolises the *karmēndriyas* and the *jñānēndriyas*. The *asi* or *khaḍga* is emblematic of *vidyā* (spiritual wisdom) while the scabbard in which it is kept represents *avidyā* (ignorance). The lord of the *indriyas*, Hṛishikēśa, though personally bodiless assumes a body for the sake and benefit of his creatures. The idea intended is obviously to denote that the powers of *prakṛiti* or nature are in fact the powers of God who is the Lord of Nature.