27 Who Is Lord Murugan?§
At the entrance to Batu Caves near Kuala Lumpur stands the 140-foot-tall statue of Lord Murugan holding His vel & bedecked with golden garlands. Malaysian Hindus are especially fond of Siva’s son.§
HINDUISM TODAY§
Murugan is the God of religion and yoga. He is the second son of Siva, born of His divine mind. His electric power awakens spiritual wisdom to propel souls onward in their evolution to Siva’s feet. Also known as Karttikeya, Kumara, Skanda, Shanmukhanatha and Subrahmanya, He is worshiped not only by Hindus but by Buddhists as well, in China, Japan and other countries. Majestically seated on the manipura chakra, this red-hued God blesses mankind and strengthens our will when we rise to higher consciousness through sadhana and yoga. He brings detachment, willpower and contentment, and His blessings strengthen our meditations. Lord Murugan carries a vel, or spear, representing the power to overcome darkness and ignorance. He is the authority behind the king (nowadays, any government which rules the people), there to see that justice is done and peace prevails. Murugan is especially loved by Tamil Saivites, who believe He guides their culture and history. Devotees look to Him for healing of the body and mind, and for strength to face life’s challenges. He is said to love bamboo groves and hilltops, and His vahana is the proud and beautiful peacock. When we connect with Murugan, we have to be ready to change, for He brings a dynamic energy. He inspires penance, such as carrying kavadi during Tai Pusam, which softens karmas and purifies the mind. When Murugan’s blessings come into our life, we become a better person, more kind, disciplined and spiritual. Many saints and devotees have had visions of Murugan and other Gods. But more often we just sense their presence, as we feel the warm rays of the sun when our eyes are closed.§
GURUDEVA: Pray to Lord Murugan to unravel the great mysteries of the universe. Pray to Lord Murugan to make you a spiritual person. Pray to Lord Murugan to release you into the arms of Lord Siva by teaching you more about your Saivite religion.§