Why Is Lord Krishna Called Krishna and Keshava

The Meaning of Krishna

The name Krishna holds deep meaning both linguistically and spiritually and can be explored through its Sanskrit roots and interpretations in Hindu philosophy. The root word Krish means to black, but it can have several other meanings as well, often symbolizing deep, magnetic, or attractive. The particle Na negates or modifies the root, adding a layer of spirituality to the word.

The Deeper Meaning of Krishna

According to Hindu philosophy, Krishna represents someone who is irresistibly attractive but in a way that transcends the physical. He draws people to him through love, compassion, and wisdom, yet he is beyond being attracted to or entangled by the material world. This deeper meaning can be explored through Sanskrit roots and interpretations in Hindu philosophy.

Interpretation in Adi Shankaracharya’s Bhashya

The great philosopher Adi Shankaracharya adds another layer to this understanding. In his commentary, he interprets Krishna as a manifestation of Brahman, the ultimate formless reality.

Krish: The supreme force that attracts all beings toward liberation, symbolizing the magnetic pull of consciousness that leads souls toward enlightenment and freedom from the cycle of rebirth. Na: The bliss or Ananda that comes from realizing the divine. It symbolizes Krishna's ability to remove ignorance and suffering, guiding souls toward eternal joy.

Combined Understanding

In both linguistic and philosophical terms, Krishna is the divine force that draws all beings toward him—not through material charm but through the spiritual magnetism of love, wisdom, and bliss. He embodies the supreme reality who is free from material desires and yet irresistibly pulls others toward liberation and happiness.

While Krishna represents the ultimate attractive power in the universe, he is not bound by worldly attraction but instead offers transcendence and freedom to those who follow him. This complex yet beautiful interpretation highlights the multifaceted nature of the deity and the profound meanings behind his name.

Lord Krishna as Keshava

Lord Krishna is also known as Keshava for a variety of reasons, as highlighted in several ancient scriptures.

Reasons for the Name Keshava

1. He Slew the Asura Keshi:

“Listen now to my declaration, O Vishnu. Since you have slain Keshi, you shalt pass by the name of Keshava in the world.”

(Chapter 24, Vishnu Parva, Harivamsa)

2. His Beautiful Hair:

“I shall meditate upon the supreme Lord Vishnu. I shall earnestly pray to Keshava who has attractive curly hair locks to protect our feet. I shall earnestly pray to Narayana who reclines on the serpent Anantha in the milky ocean to protect my shank.”

(Chapter 149, Anushasana Parva, Mahabharata)

3. Origin of Shiva and Brahma:

“ka is the name of Brahma. I am Shiva, the lord of all beings. We are born from your limbs. Hence you have the name Keshava.”

(Chapter 88, Bhavishya Parva, Harivamsa)

Conclusion

The names Krishna and Keshava are imbued with profound spiritual significance. They reflect the multifaceted nature of Lord Krishna, who embodies the ultimate reality, the supreme force that attracts all beings toward liberation, and the divine who is free from material desires but yet irresistibly pulls others toward freedom and happiness. Understanding these names can deepen our appreciation for the Infinite and the Divine.