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Kaumodaki: FAQ & Sources
कौमोदकीKaumodaki is the mace (gada) of Vishnu, held in one of his four hands with the discus, conch and lotus. The Mahabharata says the sea god Varuna gave it to Krishna at the burning of the Khandava forest, and the Vishnu Purana reads it as the power of the intellect.
Borne byविVishnu
Frequently asked questions
What is the name of Vishnu's mace?
Kaumodaki. Vishnu is called Gadadhara, the bearer of the mace, because of it.
Who gave Krishna the Kaumodaki mace?
The Mahabharata says Varuna gave it to Krishna, along with the discus, at the burning of the Khandava forest.
What does Vishnu's mace symbolise?
The Vishnu Purana reads it as buddhi, the intellect. Popular tradition sees it as strength used to protect.
Sources
- Mahabharata, Adi Parva (Khandava-daha episode)
- Vishnu Purana, Book 1, ch. 22
- Vishnu Sahasranama (Mahabharata, Anushasana Parva), closing verse
- Agni Purana and Padma Purana, on the 24 forms of Vishnu
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