Significance of Number 8 in Hinduism!
Nothing ever happens in the world without a purpose. Every event, every situation, and every moment arise for a reason. Even seemingly random events are part of the grand plan of the universe.” Paramahansa Yogananda
Indeed, there is no such thing as coincidence in this grand and mighty Brahmand. That includes the building blocks of the universe—numbers as well. Numbers have a distinct significance in our texts. They are used to describe the cycles of creation, preservation, and destruction, which are fundamental concepts in Hindu cosmology.
So, if you are wondering about the significance of number 8, if it is your birth date or happens to be your lucky number, let’s unlock the mystery and astrological significance behind it.
Association with Bhagwan Shiva
Any number or anything that gets associated with Mahadev becomes divine. Bhagwan Shiva is known as “Ashamurthi.” Descriptions of the Shivalinga often mention it is surrounded by eight petals, which are considered symbols of consciousness and awareness. In the descriptions of Lord Shiva, there are references to his eight peaceful and eight fierce forms.
The eight peaceful forms are.
- Saumya or Anugraha Murti,
- Ugra, Rudra or Samhara Murti,
- Nritta or Tandava Murti,
- Dakshina Murti,
- Lingodbhava Murti,
- Bhikshatana Murti,
- Haryardha Murti and
- Ardhanariswara Murti.
The eight terrible and fierce forms are:
- Kankala Bhairava,
- Gajasuravadha Murti,
- Tripurantaka Murti,
- Sarabhesara Murti,
- Kalari Murti,
- Kamantaka Murti and
- Andhakasura-vadha Murti.
Even the presiding deity of the Ashtami Tithi is Lord Shiva.
Association with Shri Krishna
The number eight, “Ashta,” holds significant associations with Bhagwan Shri Krishna as well. He was born as the eighth child, referred to as “Ashtama Santaana,” to Devaki Devi and Vasudeva.
He is also recognised as the eighth incarnation of the Avatara of Narayan among the ten principal avatars. His birth occurred on the “Ashtami.”
Additionally, Bhagwan Shri Krishna had eight prime consorts, known as the “Ashta Mahishis.” The eight esteemed consorts of Shri Krishna are revered as the “Ashta Mahishi.” They are Rukmani Devi, Sathyabhaama, Jaambavathi, Naagnaajithi, Kaalindi, Lakshana, Mitravidna, and Bhadra.
In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Sri Krishna himself identifies as Sankara, one of the Ekaadasa Rudras. “Vaasudeva” also signifies the Lord of Vasus, with the Ashta Vasus being a part of this divine connection. In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna declares himself “Paavaka” among the Ashta Vasus. Furthermore, he identifies himself as “Meru Parvatha,” one of the eight great mountains. These associations underscore the profound connections and symbolism surrounding the number eight in Lord Sri Krishna’s divine narrative.
Also Read: Shri Krishna and the Importance of Number 8 in His Life
Ashta Lakshmi
The Devi of wealth and fortune has an association with Ashta (eight) as well. Devi Lakshmi is worshipped in eight forms, known as Ashta Lakshmi. They are Aadi Lakshmi (prime wealth); Dhaanya Lakshmi (wealth of grains); Dhyrya Lakshmi (wealth of courage); Gaja Lakshmi (wealth of elephants); Santana Lakshmi (wealth of children); Vijaya Lakshmi (wealth of success); Vidya Lakshmi (wealth of knowledge); and Dhana Lakshmi (monetary wealth).
Ashta Vinayaka: Eight Incarnations of Lord Ganesha
The favourite god of all, Bappa, has an association with numbers as well. In various Puranic texts, including the Ganesha Purana and Mudgala Purana, Bhagwan Ganesha’s tales and legends are recounted. According to these Puranas, Bhagwan Ganesha manifested in several forms, with eight of them considered the most significant. These incarnations, spanning different cosmic ages, include Vakratunda, Ekadanta, Mahodara, Gajavaktra (Gajanana), Lambodara, Vikata, Vighnaraja, and Dhoomravarna.
Ashta Vinayaka Temples
The most famous temples are dedicated to Bappa, collectively known as the “Ashta Vinayaka” temples. These ancient temples are believed to be the sites where Lord Vinayaka manifested in different cosmic ages. They include:
- Mayureshwar Temple, Moregaon
- Siddhi Vinayaka Temple, Siddhatek
- Ballaleshwar Temple, Pali
- Varada Vinayak Temple, Mahad
- Chintaamani Temple, Theur
- Girijaatmaj Temple, Lenyadri
- Vignahar Temple, Ozar
- Maha Ganapathi Temple, Ranjangaon
These temples are all located in the state of Maharashtra, within approximately 100 km of Pune city.
Ashtadravya: An Eight-Ingredient Offering
During the Ganapathi homa, a sacred fire ritual in honour of Lord Ganesha is offered. It is customary to offer a special item made from a combination of eight ingredients called “Ashtadravya.” The typical ingredients include coconut, jaggery, banana, til (sesame seeds), ghee, sugarcane, laja (fried paddy), and flattened rice. The specific combination of ingredients may vary by region or tradition.
Ashtadikkpaalaka: Presiding Deities of Eight Directions
The eight directions, known as “Ashta Dikk,” are each governed by presiding deities, as follows:
- East: Poorva, presided over by Indra
- South-East: Aagneya, ruled by Agni
- South: Dakshina, overseen by Yama
- South-West: Nyruthi, guided by Nirruthi
- West: Paschima, under the guardianship of Varuna
- North-West: Vaayavya, overseen by Vayu
- North – Uttara, presided over by Kubera
- North-East: Eesaanya, ruled by Eesaana
Astro-Numerology and the Number 8
Astro-numerology of the number 8 is most important for natives born on the 8th. In astro-numerology, the number 8 is ruled by the planet Saturn. Individuals born with the number 8 as their birth number often find success after facing significant challenges and difficulties. Their journey is characterised by their strong willpower, individuality, and unwavering effort, which align with the enduring nature of Saturn.
These individuals are deeply committed to their families, society, or organisations, often prioritising these aspects over their personal affairs. However, they may not always receive the expected support or recognition in return, leading to misunderstandings with others.
People born under the number 8 typically belong to groups of revolutionaries, politicians, innovators, and those involved in scientific and space research, legal professions, occult sciences, philosophy, spiritualism, and related fields. They tend to possess leadership qualities, self-confidence, and effective planning skills. When they channel their energies in the right direction, they can achieve significant success in their chosen endeavours.
What Do Our Texts Say About Number 8?
As per the texts, there is mention of:
- 8 duties of a King,
- 8 qualities of a Brahman,
- 8 ears of Brahma,
- 8 elephants guarding the eight quarters,
- Ashtadhatu, an alloy made of eight metals,
- 8 types of sexual enjoyment
- 8 auspicious encounters or visions,
- 8 rasas: Shringar rasa, Hasya rasa, Karuna rasa, Raudra rasa, Veera rasa, Bhayanak rasa, Bibhatsa rasa, and Adbhuta rasa.
- 8 methods of worship (water, sandal paste, flowers, incense, light, grains, sweets, and fruit),
The list is not complete. Number 8 has many significances in Hindu dharma and Vedic astrology. So, if you are one of those who were born on the 8th, consider yourself lucky. After all, not everyone has a birth date of such significance.
To know more about the fascinating significance of any other number or what greatness or wrath any particular number holds for you, you can always speak to expert astrologers and pundits at NamoAstro.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are there any particular zodiac signs that are strongly affected by the number 8 in astrology?
A: Capricorn, as an earth sign ruled by Saturn, is often associated with the qualities represented by the number 8. People with strong Capricorn placements may exhibit traits of discipline, responsibility, and a strong work ethic.
