Dashakam 021 Geography

Dashakam 21 of Narayaneeyam is significant for its rich description of the ancient geography of the earth and the various continents and peoples inhabiting different regions, as known at the time. It praises the Lord Narayana residing in these regions, referencing diverse divine forms and manifestations associated with different continents and their specific spiritual or mythological characteristics.

Key aspects of Dashakam 21 include:

• A detailed portrayal of the nine continents (Ilavrutha and others) and seven islands, describing the unique attributes of each region.

• The Lord Narayana's presence and protection across these continents, emphasizing his roles in various forms such as Hayagreeva (protector of the Vedas) and Narasimha, among others.

• The mention of famous sages and divine beings associated with these regions who worship Lord Narayana, showcasing the universality of the Lord's worship and cosmic presence.

• The symbolic reference to the Lord defending and sustaining the inhabitants and good people of these diverse regions during cosmic cycles, including times of deluge or crisis.

• The emphasis on the Lord's omnipresence and his role as the supreme protector beyond geographical boundaries, supporting spiritual and cosmic order everywhere.

Thus, Dashakam 21 represents a cosmic and devotional overview of the earth as a sacred and divinely governed space, highlighting Lord Narayana’s all-encompassing grace and protection over the entire world and all its peoples. It spiritually situates the cosmos and human civilization under the Lord’s care and worship, reinforcing the Narayaneeyam’s thematic thread of divine maintenance of cosmic order.

This chapter adds a geographical and cosmological dimension in the Narayaneeyam’s narrative, complementing previous chapters focused more on incarnations, cosmic events, and spiritual teachings.

Namaskarams and Dhanyavadaha to Smt Savithri Ramesh and Smt Asha Murarka for their help.