Sanatani Perspective: The Symbolical and Real Essence of God's Iconography

As a Sanatani, I do not believe that the iconography of God is merely symbolic. The forms and icons used in Sanatan Dharma hold both a symbolic and a real essence. They are as real as the world around me, just as my body and mind are real.

Let me elaborate further. Just as you see fellow human beings, plants, animals, and birds around you, you can also see the forms of various gods and goddesses, if that be your wish. The forms of these deities, much like those of human beings, are reflections of the divine. They are representations that help us understand and connect with the spiritual realms.

Symbolical and Real

For a devotee devoted to the Personal God, the form of the deity and what that form represents are both equally important. This balance between the symbolic and the real is a fundamental aspect of Sanatan Dharma. Take, for example, the iconic image of Divine Mother Kali. In that image, we can see the elements of symbolism and truth coexisting.

Divine Mother Kali

Consider the image of Divine Mother Kali. In one of her left hands, she holds a sword, and in the other, a human head. Her right hand is freely raised above while the other freely extends below. Bhagavan Shiva lies at her feet, like a corpse.

In this imagery, the sword represents the sword of Supreme Knowledge or Jnana. The human head symbolizes the ego. It is the ego that acts as a barrier between the individual and the Supreme, which is represented by Bhagavan Shiva. Through the sword of knowledge, we must cut through the ego. Once this is done, we become fearless, and in turn, we grant fearlessness to others.

The Divine Power and Devotees

Once you become fearless, you also become instrumental in granting the prayers of others. The Divine Power, using devotees as instruments, seeks to fulfill the wishes of others. The outward form of the deity remains, but within, it is all Divine. Once you realize the Supreme Truth, you cease to exist as a separate entity.

Historically, great saints and devotees such as Ramprasad Sen, Kamalakanta Bama, Khyapa, and many others not only understood what Maa Kali represented but also saw the living form of the Goddess Kali. This deep understanding and connection with the divine is a testament to the profound spiritual dimensions of the iconography.

Conclusion

The iconography of God in Sanatan Dharma is much more than mere symbols. It is a guide, a tool, and a means to understand the divine and our relationship with it. As a Sanatani, I believe in the symbolic and real essence of these images and their role in spiritual growth and enlightenment.

Thank you for reading.

-- Nirvritananda