Saptarishi Names – Know the correct name of Saptarishi as per various historical texts and scriptures

The concept of Saptarishi or Seven Sages holds a significant importance in Hinduism. They are mentioned in various Vedas and other Hindu literature. However, the names of Saptarishi keep on varying in different Vedas.

The earliest mentions of Saptarishi names are available in Jaiminiya Brahmana. In this text, the names of the rishis are Agastya, Atri, Bhardwaja, Gautama, Jamadagni, Vashistha, and Vishvamitra. Slight changes in the names are observed in later text and Vedas.

Mentions of Saptarishi are also available in the sacred texts of Jainism and Sikhism. According to mythology, these seven sages are ancestors of Brahmin Gotras. Go through this post to know more about Saptarishi. 

Who are Saptarishi and what are their importance?

According to different religious texts such as Padma Purana, Vishnu Purana, Matsya Purana, etc., the seven sages originated from the mind of Lord Brahma. It is also believed it was Lord Shiva the one who gave knowledge to the seven sages after Guru Aagaan.

As per mythological experts, Saptarishis were born to create balance in this universe. Their job is to protect the dharma and humanity. They are responsible for maintaining happiness and peace in the world by means of their penance.

Names of Saptarishi in different texts

The list of Saptarishi according to different religious texts is as follows.

As per Shatapatha Brahmana and Brihadaranyaka Upanishad

कश्यप, अत्रि, वशिष्ठ, विश्वामित्र, गौतम, जमदग्नि और भारद्वाज, इन सात ऋषियों को सप्तर्षि कहा जाता है

• Atri
• Bharadvaja
• Gautama Maharishi
• Jamadagni
• Kashyapa
• Vasistha
• Vishvamitra

According to Krishna Yajurveda in the Sandhya-Vandana Mantras

• Angiras
• Atri
• Bhrigu
• Gautama Maharishi
• Kashyapa
• Kutsa
• Vasistha

Saptarishi names according to Mahabharata

• Marichi
• Atri
• Pulaha
• Pulastya
• Kratu
• Vasistha
• Angiras

Names of Saptarishi according to Brihat Samhita

• Marichi
• Vasistha
• Angiras
• Atri
• Pulastya
• Pulaha
• Kratu

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Saptarishis in the current Kalpa

A Kalpa day is a period of time. It is also known as the day of Brahma. A kalpa is further divided into Manvantara (age of manu). Let’s go through the names of Saptarishi in the current kalpa.

Names of Saptarishi in Sikhism

Biographies of seven Saptarishi are also mentioned in the Dasam Granth of Sikhism. This granth is dedicated to Guru Gobind Singh. The names of Saptarishi in Dasam Granth are –

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Saptrishi Names in Jainism

As per Jainism, the sons of King Shri Nandan of Prabhapurnagar and Queen Dharini were the Saptarishi. All of them had “Aakaashgamini Vidhya” and came to Mathura during the rainy season of Chaturmaas. Names of these saints were.

• Surmanyu
• Surmanyu
• Shrinichay
• Sarvasundar
• Jayvaan
• Vinaylaala
• Jaymitra

Concept of Saptarishi in Indian Astronomy

In ancient astronomy, the Big Dipper, which is part of the Ursa Major constellation, is known as Saptarishi. Each star in the Big Dipper has its own Indian name.

• Dubhe is known as Kratu
• Merak is called Pulaha
• Phecda is called Pulastya
• Megrez is known as Atri
• Alioth is called Angiras
• Mizar is known as Vasistha
• Alkaid is called Marichi

Legends of Each Saptarishi

Let’s take a look at the stories associated with all Saptarishi as per the current Manvantara.

1. Bharadwaja – Rishi Bharadwaja was the son of Devrishi Brihaspati. According to the epic Ramayana, he guided Lord Rama during his period in exile. He was the father of Dronacharya, the guru of both Pandavas and Kauravas. He is known for his extensive knowledge of Ayurveda.
2. Vishwamitra – He was not a Brahmin by birth. Initially, he was a Kshatriya king but later became one of the most respected rishis through his rigorous penance.
3. Vashishta – Rishi Vashishta is considered one of the wisest Saptarishis. He was the teacher and preceptor of Lord Rama. The conversation between lord Rama and Guru Vashishta has been documented in Yoga Vashishta.
4. Gautama – Rishi Gautama was a renowned sage and philosopher known for his teachings on morality and ethics. He is associated with Dharmasutra (the first scripture in social and religious law) and his wisdom is highly regarded.
5. Atri – Atri was a sage who possessed immense spiritual power. He and his wife, Anasuya, were known for their unwavering devotion and hospitality. Atri is also associated with several mythological events
6. Jamadagni – Rishi Jamadagni was famous for his mastery of weapons and warfare. He was the father of Parashurama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
7. Kashyapa – Rishi Kashyapa is the author of many hymns in Rigveda. The land of Kashmir is named after him. His contributions to various aspects of life, including agriculture and animal husbandry, are highly regarded.

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