त्वष्टा
Tvashta, also known as Bhaumana, is the divine carpenter and the father of Saranyu (wife of Vivasvant) and grandfather of the primeval twins Yama and Yami. Known as the “artificer of the Gods” in the Rig Veda, he is credited with crafting significant items like Indra’s thunderbolt and the drinking cup of the gods. Tvashta is the guardian of Soma (Amrit). He is often associated with Vishwakarma, the divine architect. A significant story involving Tvashta is his failed attempt to create a son who could slay Indra, resulting in the birth of the Asura Vritra, due to a mispronounced mantra.
Connections to Other Entities:
| Character | Relation to Tvashta | Role in Hindu Mythology |
|---|---|---|
| Saranyu | Daughter | Wife of Vivasvant, mother of Yama and Yami |
| Indra | Rival, caused Vritra’s death | King of the Gods, slayer of Vritra |
| Vritra | Son born from Tvashta’s revenge sacrifice | Asura killed by Indra due to the mispronounced mantra |
| Vishwakarma | Often equated with Tvashta | Divine architect of the gods, associated with building the divine weapons |
Key Themes:
- Craftsmanship and Divine Creation: Tvashta’s role as the artificer of the gods highlights his skill in creating divine objects that maintain cosmic order, such as Indra’s thunderbolt.
- Mantra and the Power of Speech: The story of Tvashta’s failed revenge on Indra illustrates the importance of correct pronunciation in Vedic rituals, where a mispronounced mantra led to unintended consequences.
- Vritra’s Birth and Indra’s Rivalry: Tvashta’s son Vritra was born to avenge his brother Vishwarupa, but due to a mispronounced mantra, Indra ultimately killed Vritra with the thunderbolt crafted by Tvashta.
Tvashta’s complex narrative weaves together themes of craftsmanship, cosmic balance, and the intricate role of language and mantras in shaping the outcomes of divine actions.