The Sacred Role of a Wife in Hindu Scriptures


In Hindu scriptures, the wife is often referred to as "Vamanghi," which translates to "one who is the left side of the husband." This concept signifies that the wife is seen as an essential and integral part of the husband’s life, symbolizing unity and completeness. The left side of the husband, in this case, represents the feminine energy, and this belief has roots in the divine, drawing its significance from the very nature of creation.

Divine Symbolism: The Left Side of Lord Shiva

According to the scriptures, the creation of woman is attributed to the left side of Lord Shiva, whose form as Ardhanarishvara (the androgynous deity) symbolizes the unity of both masculine and feminine energies. This profound symbolism forms the basis for the belief that a wife is the left half of her husband. This alignment of energy extends to practices such as palmistry, where the right hand is interpreted as masculine and the left hand as feminine. Thus, the left side holds a special place in understanding relationships and energies.

The Position of the Wife: In Everyday Life

The scriptures dictate certain practices where the wife is encouraged to stay on her husband’s left side. For instance, during moments like sleeping, receiving blessings, having meals, or during rituals like sindoor daan (the application of vermilion), the wife is expected to be seated to the left of her husband. This is believed to invite prosperity and good fortune.

However, in certain sacred rituals such as marriage, yagna (sacred fire rituals), and others, the wife is expected to sit on the right side of the husband. These rituals are considered divine or otherworldly, where the masculine energy predominates, signifying that these events are primarily led by the husband. The shifting positions based on the type of ritual represent the balance of energies at play.

Wife as the Half of the Husband: A Divine Partnership

In addition to being the "Vamanghi" or left side, the wife is also referred to as "Ardhangini," which means that she is half of her husband. This concept underlines that a husband is incomplete without his wife, and together they form a whole. The union of husband and wife, in this sense, is seen as the coming together of two halves of the same soul, creating a complete and harmonious bond.

The wife not only nurtures the husband but also ensures the prosperity and happiness of the family, making her a central figure in both spiritual and material well-being. The Mahabharata, a revered text in Hindu tradition, underscores the importance of maintaining this sacred relationship. Bhishma Pitamah, a key figure in the epic, emphasizes that the wife should always be kept happy, as she is the one who nurtures the family and ensures the lineage continues.

Garuda Purana: The Ideal Qualities of a Wife

The Garuda Purana, a revered text known for its teachings on the well-being of householders, elaborates on the qualities that make a wife virtuous. According to the Purana, a wife who is proficient in household duties, speaks sweetly, and considers her husband as her life force, is truly blessed. She is the one who maintains respect in the family, runs the household efficiently, and cares for her children and guests with utmost love and respect.

A wife who speaks with kindness and in a calm, composed manner is considered a virtuous partner. Even in today’s modern world, where independence and assertiveness are celebrated, the teachings of the Garuda Purana remind us of the value of communication, respect, and empathy in a marriage.
Moreover, the Purana speaks highly of a wife who places her husband above all and maintains a respectful and supportive relationship with him. This devotion is not only spiritual but also practical, ensuring that the family’s welfare and harmony are upheld.

The Virtuous Wife: A Pillar of Family and Spirituality

Garuda Purana also explains the responsibilities of a wife after marriage. A woman, upon marrying, not only enters a new household but also assumes a significant role in shaping its spiritual and emotional framework. She is expected to care for her husband, respect the family customs, and contribute to the well-being of the household. 

The ideal wife, according to the Purana, is one who maintains cleanliness, decorum, and is always ready to take care of her husband’s needs. She adorns herself for her husband, follows rituals, and supports her family with love and dedication. A wife who does so is believed to bring blessings into the household, ensuring happiness, prosperity, and peace.

Conclusion: The Sacred Partnership of Husband and Wife

The concept of wife as "Vamanghi" and "Ardhangini" is more than just symbolic in Hinduism. It signifies a sacred and harmonious relationship that is essential for both spiritual growth and worldly success. The wife, as the left side or half of the husband, holds a place of reverence, not only as a partner in life but also as the nurturer of family, happiness, and spiritual strength.

The teachings from sacred texts like the Garuda Purana and the Mahabharata offer timeless wisdom on how to cultivate this relationship, emphasizing virtues such as respect, communication, and devotion. In any society, regardless of how modern it becomes, the bond between husband and wife remains foundational - rooted in love, trust, and mutual understanding. This timeless connection not only keeps the family structure intact but also ensures that the household flourishes with prosperity and divine blessings.

C. P. Kumar
Reiki Healer 

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