Sapta Rishi (Seven Sages)

Sapta Rishi (Seven Sages)

As per hindu mythology, when Lord Brahma decided to create our universe, he created seven sages out of his thoughts. They were called the Sapta Rishis and also "Maanasa Putra"(created out of mental thoughts). The Sapta Rishis are :

Bhrigu

Bhrigu is said to have stepped on Brahma, Shiva and Vishnu to test the greatness of each God. Brahma and Shiva were furious but Vishnu treated the Sage with respect and was declared the greatest. His descendants are supposed to have composed the Atharva Veda.

Angira

Angira alongwith Sage Atharvan is said to have composed Atharva Veda. He is also mentioned in the other Vedas.

Atri

Atri is the rishi who composed the fifth Mandala (chapter) of Rig Veda. He proclaimed the theory of three strands of the sacred thread : Janeu/Janou. The three strands symbolise creation(represents Brahma and the letter "A"), sustenance(represents Vishnu and the letter "U") and destruction(represents Shiva and the letter "M"). Together these three strands show the vow that a Brahmin takes to recite and adhere to AUM/OM.

Gautama

In hindu mythology, he is credited to have created mantras and also river Godavari which was formed after he prayed to Lord Shiva. Shiva descended to Tryambakeshvar and this gave rise to the river Godavari. He is said to be the creator of Dharma Sutras that contain the rules for the four Ashramas, the forty Samskaras, the four Varnas, kingly duties, the punishments for various offences, etc.

Kashyapa

He is the father of Gods and Demons. Sage Kashyapa is said to have two wives : Aditi (mother of Gods) and Diti (mother of demons).

Vashishta

He was chief of Saptarishis and the Rajaguru of the Suryavamsha (Solar Dynasty) in hindu mythology. Vasishtha is said to be the chief author of seventh Mandala (Chapter) of the Rigveda. He also wrote the "Vasishtha Samhita" - a book on Muhurtha/Muhurt that forms the basis of electional astrology.

Agastya

He is said to be one of the greatest of all Sapta Rishis in hindu mythology. He is credited with spreading the vedic religion to South India and creating the Tamil language. He married Lopamudra, the human daughter of Brahma.