Yakṣa
From Hindupedia, the Hindu Encyclopedia
By Swami Harshananda
Sometimes transliterated as: Yaksa, YakSa, Yaksha
Contents
Yakṣa as per Ṛgveda
Though the word yakṣa occurs in the Ṛgveda several times[1][2] its meaning is not clear. Traditional commentators interpret it as a feast or sacrifice.
Yakṣa as per Atharvaveda
The word occurring in the Atharvaveda[3] is sometimes interpreted as a monster.
Yakṣa as per Kena Upaniṣad
In the Kena Upaniṣad[4] Brahman is said to have assumed the form of a Yakṣa to test the gods.
Yakṣa as per Purāṇas
In the epics and the purāṇas the yakṣas are described as semi-divine beings along with vidyādharas, gandharvas and kinnaras. They were the offsprings of Kāśyapa and Khasā.[5] Kubera, the god of wealth, is the lord of the yakṣas.
References
- The Concise Encyclopedia of Hinduism, Swami Harshananda, Ram Krishna Math, Bangalore
