Lord Brahaspati
East Ganga Dynasty, 13th Century AD,From Konark
Brahaspati is the planet Jupiter. As the largest planet in our solar system, it was well known to the ancient astronomers. It funds prominence in ancient myths. In Hinduism Jupiter is the Guru of the demons; in Roman mythology, he is the supreme God, better know as Zeus in the Greek mythology.
As a 'guru' (teacher), Brahaspati is revered for his knowledge. It is said that with his 'mantras' (chants), he could revive the dead as well. In astrology, he is considered a benign planet which influences the academic career of a person. A person with a strong Brahaspati on his horoscope is said to have a fine mind and generally goes either in academics or into administration.
Iconographically, Brahaspati is easy to recognise. For there are only three gods in Hindu pantheon who support a beard: Lord Brahma, Agni ( the God of Fire), and Brahaspati. He holds a rosary, which symbolises repetition of mantras, or in other words, meditation. The water pot he holds symbolises the ability to cleanse oneself of illusions and delusions. It is the holy water which cleans our sins. Water which is the elixir of life. He sits in the lotus position (Padam aasan), as though he is about to reveal the secrets of life and about to unravel the mysteries of the universe. Like a good teacher he has a beautiful smile, full of calmness and detachment. The Guru has always occupied a central position in our society. For it is they who convert the beast (demons) in us into divinity. He is the teacher of the demons
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