Life in Ancient India as Depicted in the Jain Canons, with Commentaries: An Administrative, Economic, Social and Geographical Survey c14.s3.t4: (2) Khandamaha

Life in Ancient India as Depicted in the Jain Canons, with Commentaries: An Administrative, Economic, Social and Geographical Survey c14.s3.t4

Language: English

(2) Khandamaha

c14.s3.t4.1

In Hindu mythology Skanda or Kārtikeya181 was the son of Siva, and the god of war. He was the commander-in-chief of the army of gods in their war with Taraka, a powerful demon, and is represented as riding a peacock 185. The festival in honour of Kanda, as it has been stated, was celebrated on the full-moon day of Āsaḍha. This festival was in vogue during the lifetime of Mahavira. We are told that when the Teacher reached Savatthi, a well decorated image of Kanda was taken out in a chariot in procession 186.

c14.s3.t4.2

The shrine of Skanda, Kulala and other deities are referred to; their images were made of wood and oil lamps remained burning in the shrines during night 187.

Linked texts (1)

Bṛhatkalpalaghubhāṣya — Saṅghadāsagaṇi Kṣamāśramaṇa, Māhārāṣṭrī Prakrit