Comet Symbolism in Hinduism

by Jayaram V
The archetypal meaning, cultural significance and symbolism of
comets (kethu or dhumakethu) in Hinduism

Comets in Hinduism symbolize both good and evil, and disrup-

tion in the order and regularity of the world. Since they are light
bodies that shine brightly in darkness but seem mysterious, they
are considered to be troublesome and a cause of worry. Etymolog-
ically they are considered extension of starts (kethu-thara) or
stars with tails.

In the Hindu mythology, comets are associated with two demons,

Rahu and Kethu. According to one account Vishnu cut off the
head of an asura. The head without body became Ketu and the
body without head became Rahu. Later Ketu assumed a serpent
body.

According to another account, Vishnu cut off the heads of two

demons named Rahu and Ketu as they tried to drink elixir along
with the gods using a deception. The sun and the moon gods who
noticed it reported to Vishu, who then cut off their heads to pre-
vent the elixir entering their bodies.

As a result, their bodies perished, but their heads remained im-

mortal. Later they assumed serpent bodies and became comets.
Hence like comets they have shining heads and serpent tails. It is
believed that every year out of spite they temporarily swallow the
sun and the moon and release them, causing the solar and lunar
eclipses. In Vedic astrology both Rahu and Ketu are considered
planetary deities (grahas). Ketu is also described as a descending
node of the waning moon.

The Vedas describe the appearance of comets (dhumakethu) in

the sky as aspects of Agni, a celestial horse with a flying tail, and
the weapon of Maruths. They have the tendency to cover the ce-
lestial phenomena in smoke and strike fear in the hearts of the
people on earth.

In Saiva tradition, comets are believed to be the manifestations of

Ganesha. The word Dhumketu, by which comets are known in
Sanskrit, is an epithet of Ganehsa, who at one time was consid-
ered the lord of destruction. According to legends he acquired the
name after he killed a smoke demon named Dhumasur.

Comets are associated with both auspicious and inauspicious

events. Hence, many superstitions are associated with them Their
appearance in the sky is viewed as a bad omen porending the
death of a king, or an important person, and cause natural ca-
lamities, civil unrest the death of a close relation, etc. When they
appear, people refrain from celebrating important events such as
marriage the construction of a house, or purchase of property. Ac-
cording to the Parashara-samhita two comets appeared in the sky
before the great flood took place during which everything on earth
was submerged and Vishnu having incarnated as a giant fish
(matsya) had to rescue the Vedas along with Manu, the progenitor
of mankind. The appearance of comets was also mentioned by an-
cient Indian astronomers such as Varahamihira and Vallalasena.

Astrologically, comets may exert both positive and negative influ-

ences. The adverse influence of Rahu and ketu is said to be re-
sponsible for childlessness, for which the texts prescribe atone-
ment ceremonies.

They may aggravate negative situations to help people overcome

their weaknesses and character flaws.