Sahishnu

Let’s look at the meaning of the 146th divya nama of Vishnu Shasranama - Sahishnu (सहिष्णुः) from -

भ्राजिष्णुर्भोजनं भोक्ता सहिष्णुर्जगदादिजः ।

अनघो विजयो जेता विश्वयोनिः पुनर्वसुः ॥

There are two meanings to the divya nama, Sahishnu -

1.The Forgiver

The name Sahishnu means 'The Forgiver.'

1. Root Meaning of the Word:
• The word 'Sahishnu' comes from the root 'sah,' which means 'to endure' or 'to forgive.'
• The suffix 'ishNuc' is added to indicate the quality of habit or nature. So, 'Sahishnu' refers to someone who has the nature of enduring or forgiving.
2. Quality of Forgiveness:
• It is in Lord Vishnu’s nature to forgive. This aligns with His role as the preserver and supporter of the universe.
• The Yajurvedic mantra 'saho’si saho mayi dhehi' reflects this forgiving and enduring nature.
3. Enduring Patiently:
• 'Sah' also means to endure suffering patiently. Vishnu, as Sahishnu, endures everything happening in the world with perfect detachment and patience.
• Even though the world is full of chaos and wrongdoings, He remains calm and unaffected, continuing to support and sustain creation.
4. Being a Witness:
• Vishnu, as Sahishnu, acts as a witness to everything happening in the universe. He observes everything but does not lose patience or become angry.
• The Rigvedic mantra 'naakshastapyate bhooribhaaraah' indicates that He does not get impatient or burdened, even by the weight of supporting the world.

Once, the great Sage Bhrigu was given the task of deciding who among the Trimurti—Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva—was the most tolerant.

Bhrigu first went to Lord Brahma, but Brahma became angry when Bhrigu did not offer him proper respect. Next, Bhrigu visited Lord Shiva and intentionally disrespected him. Shiva, too, became furious and raised his trident in anger. Bhrigu realized that neither Brahma nor Shiva had passed the test.

Finally, Bhrigu approached Lord Vishnu, who was resting peacefully on Adishesha, the serpent bed, with Goddess Lakshmi by His side. Without any hesitation, Bhrigu did something extreme—he kicked Vishnu on His chest.

Instead of reacting with anger, Lord Vishnu immediately stood up. He looked at Bhrigu with kindness and concern. Bowing slightly, Vishnu said, 'O Sage, I hope your foot is not hurt. My chest is very hard, and your delicate foot must have suffered.' He then gently massaged Bhrigu’s foot, showing not just patience but also humility.

Seeing this, Bhrigu was filled with awe and shame. He realized that Vishnu was the embodiment of forgiveness, endurance, and love. 

From that day, the Shrivatsa mark appeared on Lord Vishnu’s chest, where Bhrigu had kicked Him. It became a reminder of Vishnu’s ability to forgive and His infinite patience.

2. The Conqueror

'Sahate', also means 'to conquer'.

The name Sahishnu signifies Bhagavan’s ability to conquer and overcome enemies or challenges.

This highlights His strength and supremacy over negative forces in the universe.

Ramaswamy Sastry and Vighnesh Ghanapaathi