THE LIVING ARCHIVE
About Nandaka
The sword belongs to Vishnu’s group of divine emblems. The name-list places its bearer beside the wielder of the discus, the bearer of the conch, the archer with Sharnga and the holder of the mace. These descriptions identify distinct implements carried by the same deity.
Nandaki describes the bearer rather than naming a second sword. The devotional use of the name directs praise toward Vishnu through what he carries. It therefore belongs to a larger picture in which the deity is remembered through his appearance, actions and powers.
