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Hinduism - Who Is Madhu?


One of two demons that tries to destroy the deity Brahma in Hindu mythology; the other demon is Kaitabha.

The narrative is told in a variety of legendary texts, with some significant changes between them.

During the moment of cosmic dissolution, Madhu and Kaitabha are born from the deity Vishnu's ear wax, according to all traditions (pralaya).

A lotus blooms from Vishnu's navel as the universe is created all over again.

It begins by revealing Brahma, the creator-god, who is immediately threatened by Madhu and Kaitabha.

In all versions of the narrative, Brahma asks for assistance, and Vishnu fools and kills the demons.

The distinction between the two accounts is the god to whom Brahma pleads for assistance.

The narrative is originally told in the Vishnu mythology, when Brahma summons Vishnu.

The Devimahatmya, the oldest text in which the Mother Goddess emerges as the highest divine force, tells the same narrative.

Brahma's song of adoration in this version is to the Goddess, who, in her shape as Yoganidra ("yoga slumber"), has lulled Vishnu into a cosmic lethargy, making him powerless to assist Brahma.

The Goddess, pleased by Brahma's praise, relinquishes her control over Vishnu, who wakes and slays the demons.


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