Vel: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 23:47, 9 February 2025

A divine javelin associated with the Hindu god Murugan

The Vel is a divine javelin or spear associated with the Hindu god Murugan, also known as Kartikeya or Subramanya. It is an important symbol in the Hindu tradition, particularly in the worship of Murugan, who is revered as the god of war and victory.

Mythological significance

According to Hindu mythology, the Vel was given to Murugan by his mother, the goddess Parvati, to vanquish the demon Surapadman. The Vel is thus a symbol of divine power and protection. It is believed to embody the shakti (power) of Parvati and is used by Murugan to destroy evil and restore dharma.

Cultural and religious importance

The Vel is prominently featured in various Hindu festivals and rituals dedicated to Murugan. One of the most significant festivals is Thaipusam, celebrated by Tamil communities worldwide. During this festival, devotees carry kavadis, which are elaborate structures often adorned with images of the Vel, as an act of devotion and penance.

The Vel is also a central element in the Kanda Sashti Kavacham, a devotional hymn sung in praise of Murugan. The hymn describes the Vel as a protective force that guards devotees from harm.

Iconography

In iconography, Murugan is often depicted holding the Vel, which is characterized by its long shaft and pointed tip. The Vel is sometimes shown with a rooster emblem, symbolizing Murugan's victory over Surapadman, who was transformed into a rooster.

Archaeological evidence

Artifacts and coins from ancient Indian civilizations, such as the Yaudheyas, depict the Vel, indicating its historical significance. These artifacts often show Murugan with the Vel, highlighting its importance in ancient Indian culture.

Gallery

A depiction of the Vel in a cave temple.
Stone carving of the Vel at Saluvankuppam.
Vel spear at Kurunji Aandavar Temple, Kodaikanal.
Statue of Murugan holding the Vel at Srisailam.
Coin of the Yaudheyas depicting Kartikeya with the Vel and a rooster.

Related pages

References

"Murugan: The Hindu God of War." Hindu Mythology Encyclopedia. Accessed October 2023.
"Thaipusam Festival: A Celebration of Devotion." Tamil Culture Journal. Accessed October 2023.
"The Iconography of Murugan." Indian Art and Culture Review. Accessed October 2023.

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-'''Vel''' is a medical term that refers to a specific type of [[genetic mutation]] that can cause a variety of health conditions. The term is derived from the Latin word for "veil," which is used to describe the way this mutation can mask the presence of other genetic traits.
+{{short description|A divine javelin associated with the Hindu god Murugan}}
+{{Hindu mythology}}
-== Overview ==
+The '''Vel''' is a divine javelin or spear associated with the Hindu god [[Murugan]], also known as Kartikeya or Subramanya. It is an important symbol in the [[Hinduism|Hindu]] tradition, particularly in the worship of Murugan, who is revered as the god of war and victory.
-The Vel mutation is a type of [[genetic disorder]] that can cause a variety of health conditions. These conditions can range from mild to severe, and can affect many different parts of the body. The mutation is caused by a change in a specific gene, which can be passed down from parents to their children.
+==Mythological significance==
+According to Hindu mythology, the Vel was given to Murugan by his mother, the goddess [[Parvati]], to vanquish the demon [[Surapadman]]. The Vel is thus a symbol of divine power and protection. It is believed to embody the shakti (power) of Parvati and is used by Murugan to destroy evil and restore dharma.
-== Causes ==
+==Cultural and religious importance==
+The Vel is prominently featured in various [[Hindu festivals]] and rituals dedicated to Murugan. One of the most significant festivals is [[Thaipusam]], celebrated by Tamil communities worldwide. During this festival, devotees carry kavadis, which are elaborate structures often adorned with images of the Vel, as an act of devotion and penance.
-The Vel mutation is caused by a change in a specific gene. This gene is responsible for producing a protein that plays a crucial role in the body's cells. When this gene is mutated, it can cause the protein to function improperly, leading to a variety of health conditions.
+The Vel is also a central element in the [[Kanda Sashti Kavacham]], a devotional hymn sung in praise of Murugan. The hymn describes the Vel as a protective force that guards devotees from harm.
-== Symptoms ==
+==Iconography==
+In iconography, Murugan is often depicted holding the Vel, which is characterized by its long shaft and pointed tip. The Vel is sometimes shown with a rooster emblem, symbolizing Murugan's victory over Surapadman, who was transformed into a rooster.
-The symptoms of the Vel mutation can vary widely, depending on the specific health condition it causes. Some people with the mutation may experience mild symptoms, while others may experience severe symptoms. Common symptoms can include [[fatigue]], [[pain]], and [[difficulty breathing]].
+==Archaeological evidence==
+Artifacts and coins from ancient Indian civilizations, such as the [[Yaudheya]]s, depict the Vel, indicating its historical significance. These artifacts often show Murugan with the Vel, highlighting its importance in ancient Indian culture.
-== Diagnosis ==
+==Gallery==
+<gallery>
+File:GOD_CAVE_3_0271.jpg|A depiction of the Vel in a cave temple.
+File:Stone_vel_Saluvankuppam.jpg|Stone carving of the Vel at Saluvankuppam.
+File:Vel_spear_murugan_karthikeyan_kurunji_aandavar_temple_kodaikaanal.jpg|Vel spear at Kurunji Aandavar Temple, Kodaikanal.
+File:Murugan_statue_srisailam.jpg|Statue of Murugan holding the Vel at Srisailam.
+File:Karttikeya_With_Spear_And_Cock_in_a_coin_of_Yaudheyas.jpg|Coin of the Yaudheyas depicting Kartikeya with the Vel and a rooster.
+</gallery>
-Diagnosing the Vel mutation can be challenging, as the symptoms can be similar to those of other health conditions. However, genetic testing can be used to identify the mutation. This involves taking a sample of a person's blood or saliva and analyzing it in a laboratory.
+==Related pages==
+* [[Murugan]]
+* [[Kartikeya]]
+* [[Thaipusam]]
+* [[Parvati]]
+* [[Surapadman]]
-== Treatment ==
+==References==
+* "Murugan: The Hindu God of War." Hindu Mythology Encyclopedia. Accessed October 2023.
+* "Thaipusam Festival: A Celebration of Devotion." Tamil Culture Journal. Accessed October 2023.
+* "The Iconography of Murugan." Indian Art and Culture Review. Accessed October 2023.
-There is currently no cure for the Vel mutation. However, treatment can help manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life for people with the mutation. Treatment options can include medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.
+[[Category:Hindu mythology]]
+[[Category:Weapons in Hindu mythology]]
-== See also ==
+[[Category:Murugan]]
-* [[Genetic disorder]]
-* [[Mutation]]
-* [[Genetic testing]]
-[[Category:Genetic disorders]]
-[[Category:Medical terminology]]
-[[Category:Health]]
-{{stub}}