why are the bodies blue in Hindu images?

[metagirl]

Why are the bodies and faces blue or lightish blue in Hindu spiritual images?

[Clanad]

Primarily because in the Hindu religion, so much of creation is blue... sky, oceans, lakes, etc. Additionally, qualities of bravery, manliness, a stable mind and such are defined in blue. Vishnu is closely associated with water and hence he and his other incarnations, including Krishna are also accorded the blue color. (Source: Indian Dieties)

[nickmo]

In Huduism, the Creator is seen as giving the colour blue to the most prevalent things in nature - sky, water, sea, rivers, lakes etc. The deity with the greatest bravery, most manly, who is a generally nice guy - you know the type - is represented as blue as this reflects the godly qualities, and shows the qualities of destroying evil.... Which is nice.

Colour is an important part of Hinduism - yellow is purity, green is peace and so on. Saris of the relevant colour will be worn for specific occasions for example, and some of the festivals use coloured powders or spices that represent the occasion too.

I'm sure there is loads more to add to this though..

[nickmo]

Hi clanad - typical - filling out the form with stuff thats been knocking around the brain and then you go and post anyway. . . .never mind, metagirl - hope the above helps

[metagirl]

very interesting - thank you for satisfying my curiosity!

[matt66]

there is a bit in the Mahabharata that explains how Lord Krishna attained his blue colured skin. Sorry i will have to re read the entire epic to find it...will get back in 2 years.