Savitr, also called as Savitur, is a prominent figure in Vedic scriptures, known as an Aditya, or “offspring,” of the primaeval mother goddess Aditi. His name in Vedic Sanskrit connotes “impeller, rouser, vivifier.” Sometimes identified with Surya, the Sun god, Savitr is often distinguished as the divine influence or vivifying power of the Sun. In Vedic tradition, the Sun before sunrise is called Savitr, and after sunrise until sunset, it is called Surya.
Savitr first appears in book three of the Rig Veda (RV 3.62.10), later known as the Gayatri mantra. Detailed descriptions of Savitr can be found in Hymn 35 of the Rig Veda, also known as the Hymn of Savitr. He is celebrated in eleven complete hymns and mentioned about 170 times throughout the Rig Veda, highlighting his significant role in Vedic religion. Although Savitr disappeared as an independent deity after the Vedic period, he remains an important figure in modern Hindu worship.
Savitr acts as a protector of all beings, guarding the world of spirits. As an Aditya, Savitr adheres to the Eternal Order and exacts scores. Savitr is prayed to convey departed souls to righteous dwellings, bestow immortality on gods, and grant long life to humans.
The iconography of Savitr:
Savitr is depicted with golden arms and broad or beautiful hands, emphasizing his power and grace. He has golden eyes and yellow hair. Savitr is often described as wearing a tawny garb and riding a golden chariot with a golden axle, drawn by radiant steeds or bronze, white-footed stallions.
The Vedas do not specifically identify the Adityas, but in some passages of the Satapatha Brahmana, Savitr is mentioned among the Adityas, who are gods in the intermediate and outer spaces.
Savitr, a significant Vedic deity, embodies the vivifying power of the Sun and plays a crucial role in Vedic rituals and cosmology.
