The Story of Sheshnag - Origin, Austerity and Eternal Glory

Sheshnag, also known as Ananta and Adishesha, is revered in Vedic and Puranic texts as the lord of serpents, the cosmic support of Earth and the divine couch of Lord Vishnu. His story blends mystery, devotion and timeless spiritual power.

Origin of Sheshnag

Kadru and Vinata, daughters of Daksha Prajapati, were married to Sage Kashyapa. Kadru wished for one thousand radiant serpent sons, while Vinata sought only two mighty sons. Among Kadru’s thousand serpent children, Shesha emerged as the eldest and the most powerful.

Meaning of the name “Shesha”

“Shesha” signifies the one who remains after everything ends, symbolising eternal existence.

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Austerity and the Blessing of Brahma

Disturbed by the deceit of his mother Kadru, Shesha renounced his family and performed intense austerities on Mount Gandhamadan. Pleased with his purity and devotion, Lord Brahma blessed him with unwavering righteousness and assigned him the duty of supporting Earth on his hood.

Sheshnag and Lord Vishnu

In the Ocean of Milk, Sheshnag expands his thousand hoods to form the divine couch on which Lord Vishnu rests while sustaining creation.

Incarnations of Shesha

Sheshnag incarnated as Lakshmana in the Treta Yuga and as Balarama in the Dvapara Yuga.

Significance and Symbolism

Aspect	Description
Origin	Eldest son of Kadru and Kashyapa
Austerity	Intense penance on Gandhamadan
Support of Earth	Holds Earth steady on his hood
Couch of Vishnu	Forms Vishnu’s divine resting seat
Incarnations	Lakshmana, Balarama, Patanjali
Symbolism	Eternity, balance, devotion, discipline

Key Insights from the Story

• Patience and balance form the foundation of responsibility.
• Selfless devotion is the highest form of spiritual service.
• Inner strength arises from discipline, renunciation and purity.

Final Reflection

The story of Sheshnag inspires a life rooted in duty, devotion and inner steadiness. His presence symbolizes everlasting stability and spiritual power.

FAQs

1. Who are the parents of Sheshnag?
Kadru and Sage Kashyapa.

2. Why does Sheshnag hold the Earth on his hood?
To maintain cosmic balance as per Brahma’s instruction.

3. What are the main incarnations of Sheshnag?
Lakshmana and Balarama.

4. Why is he called “Shesha”?
Because he remains even after the universe dissolves.

5. What does Sheshnag symbolize?
Eternal stability, devotion and spiritual strength.