Not just Bhairav! Dog is also a vehicle of these gods and goddesses
Whenever the dog is remembered as the vehicle of the deities, most people first take the name of Kaal Bhairav. The black dog is considered their vehicle and devotees on Bhairav Ashtami especially provide food to black dogs. But do you know, not only Bhairav in Indian mythology, there are many other gods and goddesses who are related to dogs, some considered dogs as their vehicles, and for some dogs became holy guards and messengers.
In mythology, the dog is not only a vehicle of Bhairav, but also as a friend of Yamraj’s gatekeeper, Kali’s war fellow and many other gods. It is clear from these stories that in ancient Indian culture, the dog was honored as the highest symbol of religion, loyalty and security.
Mythology
The dog was seen as not only animals in ancient India, but as a guard of religion and divine messenger. Dog’s loyalty, ability to detect danger and fearlessness gave him a place as a partner of the gods. Even today, feeding dogs in Hinduism, especially on Saturday and Bhairav Ashtami, is considered auspicious and virtuous.
Yamraj and his divine dogs
According to the Rigveda and Atharvaveda, two divine dogs live at the gate of Yamraj, Shyama and Shabla. These are considered to be four -eyes watchmen, whose two eyes look at the worldly world and two eyes to the invisible world. Their job is to bring dead souls to Yamlok and stop sinners. These dogs are the sons of a divine bitch named Shame, who are famous for the rid of Indra’s cows from the Asuras.
Bhairav and Black Dog
The vehicle of Kaal Bhairav, who is considered to be the rage form of Shiva, is a black dog. It is believed that Bhairav Dev is pleased by giving food to the black dog and negative energy and enemy obstacles are removed from life. This tradition is specially played on Bhairav Ashtami.
Goddess Kali and a dog symbol of war
In some Shakta traditions and folklore, Goddess Kali is depicted with black dogs, especially in Tantra Sadhana, dogs here symbolize the power and conquest of darkness.
Ashwinikumar and loyal dogs
In Vedic literature, the relationship of Ashwinikumar (Dev Vaidya) is also found connected to the dogs. They often refer to dogs as a symbol of medicine and protection.
Dattatreya: Combination of Tridevas
Four dogs are also seen as their vehicle, along with Lord Dattatreya, who are combined with Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. These four dogs are the symbols of four Vedas – Rigveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda and Atharvaveda. In the stories of Dattatreya, dogs reflect their teachings and loyalty to knowledge. This shows that true knowledge and devotion can be obtained through any creature.
Muthappan: Popular deity of Kerala
The popular deity of Kerala, Mr. Muthappan, also accepts the dog as his vehicle. In Muthppan’s stories, the dog reflects his hunter form and his deep relationship towards nature. In local traditions, dogs are worshiped in the temples of Muthappan and offer food to them, which gives the message of social harmony and mercy towards fauna.
Disclaimer: The information given in this news is based on religious beliefs. TV 9 India does not confirm this.