Introduction to Hindu Health God
The concept of a god of health in Hinduism is an ancient one, but has been strengthened in recent centuries. People of India have long believed that their gods have the power to heal and protect them from disease, and names like Dhanvantari and Gauri Shankar are invoked in times of ill health. This article will explore the history of the god of health in Hinduism, the god’s significance in Indian culture, and the deity’s current status in modern Indian religious practice.
Dhanvantari: The Vedic God of Health
The Vedas, the most ancient scriptures of Hinduism, identify Dhanvantari as the deity of health and healing. Dhanvantari was the son of Brahma, the creator god, and is said to have had four arms, each of which carried a key attribute of health: Ayurveda (the science of medicine), Shalya (the science of surgery), Shalakya (the science of eye, ear, nose and throat diseases), and Kaumarabhrtya (the science of pediatrics). Dhanvantari’s wife was Devi, the mother goddess, and his children were the Ashwini Kumaras, the celestial physicians.
Dhanvantari has been historically worshipped as the god of health and healing, and his festivals are still celebrated in many parts of India. Devotees will sometimes fast on the occasion of his festival, and offer prayers and offerings to invoke his divine favor.
Gauri Shankar: The Shiva-Parvati Combination
In some Hindu traditions, Gauri Shankar is ascribed the function of god of health. Gauri Shankar is a combination of two of the most important deities in Hinduism—Shiva, the destroyer, and Parvati, the wife of Shiva and mother of the universe. In some Hindu sects, Gaurishankar is worshiped as the embodiment of divine grace and the provider of health, strength, and longevity.
God of Health: Today
Today, the concept of a god of health continues to be a key part of Hindu religious practice. Different Hindu sects have their own approaches to this god—some preferring the traditional god of health in the Vedas, Dhanvantari, and some revering Gauri Shankar as the embodiment of divine grace.
Regardless, Dhanvantari and Gauri Shankar both continue to play an important role in Hindu religion today. They are regularly invoked in times of illness, and many Hindus seek their divine intervention in seeking healing. Festivals dedicated to these gods are celebrated in some parts of the country, with devotees fasting and seeking the affection of these powerful deities.
Health and Hinduism: A Symbiotic Relationship
The relationship between health and Hinduism is an important one and has been extensively studied by scholars and religious experts. The god of health, in particular, is seen as a powerful being whose worship can attract divine bounty and protect individuals from the ravages of disease and sickness.
The god of health is seen as an important force in preventing and curing disease and promoting a healthy life. Hindus will often invoke the gods of health in times of illness, and festivals celebrating these gods are common in Indian religious practice.
Concept of Disease and Illness in Hinduism
The concept of disease and illness in Hinduism is a complex one and is closely linked to the belief in karma and reincarnation. Hindus believe that illness is a form of punishment for bad deeds committed in past lives. Ill health is seen as a trial that must be faced with fortitude and faith in the gods in order to restore balance and harmony.
Sickness is seen as a reminder of the necessity to put spiritual practice ahead of worldly concerns, and devote more time to the gods. The gods of health are seen as powerful intermediaries who can intercede on behalf of humans and bring relief from suffering.
Ayurveda: The Science of Hindu Health
Ayurveda is an important area of study in Hindu traditions and has been used to treat and prevent illnesses for centuries. Ayurveda is a holistic approach to the concept of health, involving the synchronization of the body, mind and spirit.
It is based on the idea that the universe is composed of three fundamental principles or “doshas”—vata, pitta and kapha—and that illness occurs when these principles become imbalanced. Ayurveda uses diet, lifestyle, herbal remedies and purification ceremonies to restore balance and help people attain better health.
Conclusion
The god of health in Hinduism is an ancient concept and is still invoked today. Different sects have their own interpretations of this deity, but what unifies them is the belief that divine intervention can ward off disease, promote health and longevity, and bring joy and comfort to devotees. Ayurveda is the system of health and wellness referred to in Hinduism and is a holistic approach to health and wellbeing integrated into the spiritual core of Hinduism.
