Budha, one of the nine celestial bodies or Navagrahas in Indian astrology, holds a significant place in Hindu mythology and astrology. Known as the deity associated with the planet Mercury, Budha is revered as the god of intelligence, communication, and commerce. His unique origin story and familial ties connect him to several powerful and well-known deities in Hindu lore.
Origin and Family
Budha is the son of Chandra (the Moon) and Tara, the wife of Brihaspati (the guru of the Devas, or gods). His birth is marked by a tale of passion and conflict that disrupted divine harmony. According to the legend, Chandra, drawn by Tara’s beauty, pursued her, and she eventually succumbed to his charms despite being married to Brihaspati. When the affair was discovered, it led to an intense confrontation between Chandra and Brihaspati, resulting in a divine dispute that involved other deities as well.
The conflict over Tara led to the intervention of Brahma, the creator god, who persuaded Tara to return to her husband, Brihaspati. However, by this time, Tara was already pregnant with Chandra’s child. She gave birth to Budha, whose parentage led to animosity between Chandra and Brihaspati. Despite the circumstances of his birth, Budha was accepted into the pantheon and acknowledged for his wisdom and intellect.
Characteristics and Symbolism
Budha is portrayed as a deity of great intelligence and eloquence, embodying the qualities of quick wit, logic, and diplomacy. In Hindu astrology, he represents the planet Mercury and is associated with communication, analytical thinking, and commerce. He is also said to possess a calm and composed personality, qualities inherited from his connection with the moon, symbolizing coolness, and his inclination toward wisdom and knowledge as a son of the planet Mercury.
Role in Astrology and Influence
As the presiding deity of Mercury, Budha holds an influential position in Hindu astrology, where he governs aspects of learning, speech, and intellectual pursuits. Mercury is often regarded as the planet of communication, intelligence, and analytical ability, and Budha’s influence is believed to bestow these traits on individuals under his astrological guidance. His role is critical in the horoscope, especially in determining aspects like education, expression, and financial success.
Relationships and Lineage
Budha’s most famous offspring is Pururavas, born from his union with Ila. The story of Ila and Budha is unique, reflecting themes of transformation, love, and duty. According to legend, Ila, originally a male named Sudyumna, was transformed into a woman due to a curse. Budha, who fell in love with Ila, married her and they had a son, Pururavas, who went on to become a legendary king and the progenitor of the Chandravanshi (Lunar) dynasty.
Through his son Pururavas, Budha is linked to the Chandravanshi lineage, which includes notable figures like King Yayati, King Shantanu, and eventually, the Pandavas of the Mahabharata. Thus, despite the unconventional nature of his birth, Budha became an ancestor to many great heroes and rulers in Hindu mythology.
Iconography
In traditional depictions, Budha is often shown riding a chariot, sometimes drawn by lions, representing his sharp intellect and swiftness of thought. He is usually depicted with a calm, green complexion, symbolizing growth, balance, and peace. He is also sometimes portrayed holding a sword, shield, and mace, symbolizing his strength in debate, intellect, and analytical skills.
Influence and Worship
In Indian astrology, people worship Budha to seek blessings in areas governed by Mercury, such as intelligence, communication, and learning. Wednesday (Budhvar) is considered especially auspicious for offerings and prayers to Budha. His influence is thought to enhance eloquence, mental agility, and academic success. He is also invoked for matters related to trade and commerce, given his association with communication and intellect.
Table of Connections
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Parentage | Son of Chandra (Moon) and Tara, wife of Brihaspati |
| Planet | Mercury |
| Significance | Intelligence, communication, commerce, and learning |
| Iconography | Depicted with green complexion, riding a chariot, often shown with a sword, shield, and mace |
| Day of Worship | Wednesday (Budhvar) |
| Offspring | Father of Pururavas, the legendary king and progenitor of the Chandravanshi dynasty |
| Major Themes | Wisdom, eloquence, intellect, analytical ability, diplomacy, and the consequences of relationships |
Budha’s story and role illustrate the complex nature of relationships among the deities and their profound influence on human affairs in Hindu mythology. His significance as a Navagraha highlights the importance of intellectual and communicative faculties in spiritual and material pursuits. Through his line, Budha connects the Moon and the Solar dynasties, bridging celestial and earthly realms, embodying the balance between emotion and reason, and providing guidance for those who seek his blessings in navigating life’s challenges with clarity and wisdom.