In praise of Surya

Sage Dhaumya told Yudhishthira the names by which Surya is worshipped, said Kidambi Narayanan in a discourse. Following the sage’s advice, Yudhishthira worshipped the sun. Surya is Aryama — the honourable one. He is tvashta — the creator, pusha — the one who nourishes, aja — the unborn one, kaala — time, mrityu — death, and daata — the bestower of everything. He manifests as Brihaspathi (Jupiter), Sukra (Venus), Budha (Mercury) and Angaraka (Mars). Surya is vedakartaa — the originator of the Vedas, and vedavahana — he carries the Vedas. He is lokadhyaksha — one who watches over the world. He is jimutah , because he sustains the world as clouds do. He is Bhutashraya — the one who supports all beings. He is Bhutapathi — the king of all beings. Surya is Vishaala — the one with a huge form. He is Jaya (always victorious), Varada (giver of boons). He is Ananta — infinite. He is Suparna — like Garuda in his brightness. He is Bhutadih — the origin of all life. He is Aravindaksha — the lotus eyed one. He is pita (father), mata (mother) and pitamaha (grandfather) of all beings. He is Bhanu — the radiant one. He is Karunanvita — the embodiment of compassion. He is Kapila — the golden hued one.