History and Origin of Mohini Avatar
The Mohini Avatar primarily appears in two important stories: The Churning of the Ocean (Samudra Manthan) and the story of Bhasmasura, where Lord Vishnu takes the form of a beautiful woman to accomplish divine goals.
The Churning of the Ocean (Samudra Manthan):
Using her charm and beauty, Mohini captivated the demons and distracted them long enough for the gods to drink the Amrit, ensuring that they retained immortality and strength.
Samudra Manthan, the churning of the Ocean of Milk, is one of the most famous events in Hindu mythology. Both the gods (Devas) and demons (Asuras) participated in this churning to obtain the Amrit (nectar of immortality).
When the Amrit emerged from the ocean, both the Devas and the Asuras desired to claim it. In a battle for possession, the Asuras tricked the gods and began consuming the Amrit themselves.
To prevent the demons from gaining immortality and overpowering the gods, Lord Vishnu assumed the form of Mohini, a mesmerizingly beautiful woman.
The Bhasmasura Story:
The demon Bhasmasura received a boon from Lord Shiva, which granted him the power to turn anyone into ashes by placing his hand on their head.
Bhasmasura, intoxicated by his newfound power, wanted to test it on Lord Shiva himself. In fear of his life, Shiva fled and sought the help of Lord Vishnu.
To save Shiva and the gods, Vishnu took the form of Mohini, a beautiful woman, and approached Bhasmasura. She seduced him with her charm and persuaded him to demonstrate his power.
As Bhasmasura danced in front of her, Mohini suggested that he place his hand on his own head as a part of the dance. When Bhasmasura did so, he was instantly reduced to ashes by his own power, thus saving Lord Shiva and the gods.
Significance of Mohini Avatar
The Mohini Avatar is not just about beauty and allure but is associated with several profound meanings:
The Importance of Devotion: The role of Mohini teaches that devotion and faith in the divine can be a powerful tool for overcoming obstacles. In both the stories, Vishnu’s avatars act as protectors of the gods and the universe, using the most unconventional methods, such as beauty and grace, to achieve divine goals.
Restoration of Cosmic Balance: In both key stories, Mohini Avatar serves to restore balance between the forces of good (gods) and evil (demons). Vishnu’s intervention ensures that the demons do not overpower the gods and that immortality is not misused.
Power of Illusion and Maya: Mohini is a manifestation of Maya (illusion), the concept that reality is often not what it appears to be. Through her charm and illusion, she teaches that appearances can be deceptive, and true wisdom lies beyond the surface.
Feminine Divine Energy: The Mohini Avatar also highlights the concept of the feminine divine or Shakti, the creative and transformative force in the universe. Mohini’s actions display the power of the feminine aspect of the divine, which is often associated with charm, wisdom, and emotional intelligence.
Mantras of the Divine Avatar
ॐ श्री मोहिनि देवाय नमः।
Om Shri Mohini Devaya Namah.
Aarti of the Divine Avatar
ॐ जय श्री मोहिनी देवी,
सकल संसार को मोहिनी।
समुद्र मंथन में तुम्हें पाया,
अमृत का नेत्र से पाई।
विष्णु रूप में जग में आई,
देवी मोहिनी संग सलाई।
ध्यान से कीजिये ध्यान,
मोहिनी के दर्शन में मिलें आराम।
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