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– teaching two –

The Twelve Names of the Sun

by Guru Chod (1984)

The idea of performing the Classical Thai Sun Salutation or Bhucha Phra-Athit twelve times is derived from Vedic solar mythology whereby Sūrya, the Sun – "as deity of light and warmth, on whose influence all organic life directly depends" – has twelve names. Sūrya also has twelve red mares representing the months of the year and which pull his one-wheeled chariot across the sky as it passes through the twelve zodiacs in the heaven.  

The Twelve Names of the Sun are as follows:

   Sanskrit English
1.  Mitra Friend
2.  Ravi Shining
3.  Sūrya Beautiful light
4.  Bhanu Brilliant
5.  Khaga Who moves through the sky
6.  Pūshan Giver of strength
7.  Hiranyagarbha Golden
8.  Maricha Lord of dawn
9.  Āditya Son of Āditi
10.  Sāvitir Benevolent
11.  Arkha Energy
12.  Bhāskara Guide of all

 

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