सोमस्कन्द

Meaning

The Dancing Divine Family. Somaskanda is a unique icon of the Chola period, showing Shiva seated with Parvati and the child Skanda dancing between them. In this theme, it represents the 'rhythm of relationship.' Shiva isn't a lonely ascetic here; he is a householder enjoying the dance of his family. It symbolizes the harmony of the universe where the father (Pure Consciousness), the mother (Creative Power), and the child (Will/Action) dance in perfect unison. It is the divine prototype for the happy, balanced home.

Story · From tradition

The tradition of Somaskanda is deeply rooted in Tamil Shaivism. Legend says that the demon Surapadma could only be defeated by a son born of Shiva's brilliance. When Skanda was born, his childhood antics and his dance between his parents brought a rare smile to Shiva's face. This form was so beloved by the Pallava and Chola kings that they placed it behind the main Lingam in almost every temple. It shows that the ultimate dance of the cosmos is actually the dance of love and lineage. Source: Skanda Purana and Periya Puranam.