Mount Meru (Hinduism)
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For the mountain in Tanzania, see Mount Meru, Tanzania.
Mount Meru or Mount Sumeru is a sacred mountain in Hindu and Buddhist mythology considered to be the center of the universe. It is believed to be the abode of Brahma and other deities of both religions. The mountain is said to be 80,000 leagues (450,000 km) high and located in Jambu dweepa, one of the continents on earth in Hindu mythology.
Legends say that Mount Meru and the wind god Vayu were good friends. However, the sage Narad approached Vayu and incited him to humble the mountain. Vayu blew with full force for one full year, but Meru did not submit. However, after a year Meru took respite for some time. Taking advantage of this opportunity, Vayu increased its force. Thus apex of the mountain was broken and it fell into the sea and created the modern day island country of Sri Lanka.
The mythical Mount Meru may be based on a mountain along the bank of Lake Manasarovar called Kailas in modern times.
See also
External links
- The City on the Edge of Forever (http://www.dr-yo.com/meru.html)