As an expert in the field of mythology and cultural studies, I can provide a detailed and comprehensive answer to your question about which Indian god is associated with the lotus. The lotus, or Nelumbo nucifera, is indeed a symbol of great significance in Asian cultures, particularly in Hinduism, where it carries multiple layers of meaning.
The lotus is a symbol of divine beauty and purity. It grows in muddy waters, yet rises above the surface to bloom with remarkable beauty, untouched by the murk from which it emerged. This natural characteristic has led to its adoption as a metaphor for spiritual growth and enlightenment, where beings rise above the material world to attain a higher state of consciousness.
In Hindu mythology, several deities are associated with the lotus, but the most prominent among them is Vishnu. Vishnu is one of the principal deities of Hinduism and is part of the Trimurti, or the "Holy Trinity," along with Brahma and Shiva. Vishnu is often depicted as the "Lotus-Eyed One", a reference to his eyes being likened to lotus flowers, symbolizing his all-seeing and all-knowing nature. He is also often shown reclining on the cosmic serpent Shesha, with the entire universe emerging from the navel of Vishnu, which is often depicted as a lotus.
Brahma, the creator in the Trimurti, is also associated with the lotus. He is sometimes shown seated on a lotus flower, which in some interpretations symbolizes the creation of the world. The lotus represents the act of creation rising from the potentiality of the divine mind.
Other deities linked to the lotus include Kubera, the god of wealth, who is sometimes depicted with a lotus, and the goddesses Lakshmi and Saraswati.
Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, is often shown standing or sitting on a lotus, symbolizing the abundance that she brings.
Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, music, and the arts, is also associated with the lotus, which reflects her role in fostering intellectual and spiritual growth.
The lotus is not only a physical object in Hindu iconography but also a profound spiritual symbol. It represents the journey of the soul from the depths of ignorance to the heights of wisdom and enlightenment. The lotus-born deities signify the divine origin of existence and the potential within each individual to rise above the material world and attain spiritual awakening.
In conclusion, while several Hindu deities have connections to the lotus, Vishnu is the most closely associated with this sacred flower. His depiction as the "Lotus-Eyed One" and his role in the cosmic narrative where the universe unfolds from a lotus are central to understanding the significance of the lotus in Hinduism. The lotus serves as a powerful reminder of the divine beauty, purity, and potential for spiritual transcendence inherent in all beings.

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The lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) is an ancient and polyvalent symbol in Asian culture. Hindus revere it with the gods Vishnu, Brahma and to a lesser degree Kubera, and the goddesses Lakshmi and Saraswati . Often used as an example of divine beauty and purity, Vishnu is often described as the "Lotus-Eyed One".read more >>