Skanda Kumara Swami
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Skanda Kumara Swami |
The peacock is Subrahmanya's mount. It is shown as belabouring a snake with one of its legs. The snake stands for time. The peacock that kills it stands for what is opposed to it. By riding the peacock he is showing that he is beyond what is within time and outside it. He is beyond all dualities.
If the snake represents lust, as it often does in the symbology of psychology, the peacock signifies the power of celibacy. As Skanda, he is the very personification of the powers of chastity and hence is shown as riding on the peacock.
Lastly, the peacock, with its beautiful plumage, represents creation in all its glory. Hence he that rides it is the Supreme Lord, the Master of creation.
From Hindu Gods and Goddesses by Parama Poojya Swami Harshanada published by Sri Ramakrishna Math, Mylapore, Chennai 600 004.
Swami Harshanada is currently the President of Sri Ramakrishna Math, Bangalore.
