Guhyaka(s) (गुह्यक, literally "hidden ones") is a class of supernatural beings inHindu mythology. LikeYakshas (nature-spirits), they are often described as attendants ofKubera, the keeper of wealth, and protect his hidden treasures. Guhyakas are believed to live in mountain caves; thus their name, "hidden ones".[1] As lord of Guhyakas, Kubera is called "Guhyakadhipati".[2]
Edward Washburn Hopkins suggests that Guhyakas may not be distinct beings, but a generic name for spirits of concealment.[2] They are mentioned in theManu Smriti and theHarivamsa, appendix of the epicMahabharata, as distinct beings;[1] however, the epic and theMeghaduta identify them with Yakshas.[1][3]
Guhyakas are described as the most trusted and close associates of Kubera, who resides with them on MountKailash. Kubera assigns them important tasks like delivering a magic eye-wash to the god and epic-heroRama, to aid him in war.[2] They also serve as messengers and are sent to witness battles.[4] In other instances, they are described as residing onHemakuta or on MountGandhamandana, in the palace of Kubera.[5] They also live on earth and in hills.[4] They are described as half-bird or half-equine in nature.[5] They have glowing forms in heaven, take demonic forms during war, and look likegnomes on earth.[4]
TheMahabharata, which treats them as a type of Yakshas, mentions that the airborne palaces of Kubera are held in the sky by Guhyakas; in other instances, the god himself is described as being carried by Guhyakas.[6] It is also described thatBhima, a hero in the epic, kills them when he attacks Kubera on Gandhamandana.[2][3] The soldiers who die by sword neither bravely nor cowardly, as mentioned in theMahabharata war, are said to go to the abode of Guhyakas after death. This is the second lowest realm that souls can enter, the lowest beingNaraka (hell) for sinners.[4][5] Guhyakas are also associated withPitrs ("ancestors") and are sometimes equated to ghosts.[4]
The twin-physician godsAshvins, annual plants, and inferior animals are described as Guhyakas.[5][7] In theBhagavata Purana, Kubera's sonNalakuvara and Manigriva are described as Guhyakas.[2]
Though often associated with Kubera, theBrihat-Samhita ofVarahamihira as well as somePuranas describe Guhyakas as attendants ofRevanta, the son of the Sun-godSurya.[8] TheMarkandeya Purana mentions that Revanta was assigned the duty as the chief of Guhyakas by Surya.[9] In sculpture, Revanta is often depicted with the Guhyakas in hunting scenes.[10]
