The Mythological Significance of Vayu: The God of Wind and Life

Vayu, an ancient and revered god in Indian mythology, is also known as Pavana and Matharishwa. His origins trace back to the primal forces of nature, emerging from the breath of the primordial being Purusha. Vayu is not only the god of winds but also a divine messenger of the celestial beings known as devas.

His importance in the Vedic scriptures is evident, particularly in relation to Indra, the king of the gods. Vayu is closely associated with Indra and is believed to have originated from the breath of the supreme being, Vishva-Purusha. In these ancient texts, Vayu is highly praised as Prana, or the essence of life.

Vayu is depicted as a powerful and heroic god, symbolizing strength and the guna of tamo. In the context of life-breath, Vayu is often referred to as prana, the life force that sustains all living beings. This god is also associated with air, which is vital for life, making him a crucial deity in Hindu culture.

Vayu in Later Hindu Scriptures

In later Hindu scriptures, Vayu is described as a dikpala, one of the guardians of the cardinal directions. He specifically oversees the north-west quadrant. Additionally, the Hindu epics, including the Mahabharata, depict Vayu as the father of both Hanuman and Bhima, showcasing his divine lineage and influence.

As the god of life, Vayu's domain extends beyond the mere physical air. He is a fighter, destroyer, and a powerful deity. His movements across the earth are seen as waves, granting him the power to influence natural phenomena. Conversely, his displeasure can result in storms and other devastating weather events. Vayu is often depicted riding a deer, and his consort is Swasti Devi.

The First Avatar of Vayu

The Vayu Purana discusses Vayu in-depth, including his associations with solar and lunar dynasties, as well as his role in cosmology and mythology. Hanuman, the first avatar of Vayu, holds a significant place in Hindu myths and legends. In the Mahabharata, Bhima, who is considered the spiritual son of Vayu, played a pivotal role in the Kurukshetra War, using his immense strength and skills with the mace to uphold Dharma, or righteousness.

The Pancha-Prana: The Five Breath Energies

Vayu is deeply connected to the concept of Pancha-Prana, the five types of breath energies that control various aspects of life and vitality. These energies are:

Prana - inward inspiring energy Apana - downward eliminating energy Udana - upward creative energy Samana - inward churning energy Vyana - pervasive circulatory energy

The followers of the 13th-century saint Madhva consider him to be the incarnation of Vayu, worshiping him as Mukhyaprana. This aligns Vayu with the supreme god, Vishnu, emphasizing his divine status in Hindu cosmology.