Lord Krishna and His Relation with Number 8
Lord Krishna’s life is beautifully connected to the number 8, symbolising infinity, balance, and divine power.
Today is Janmashtami, also called Gokul Ashtami — the birthday of Lord Krishna. This year marks his 5251st birth anniversary. Lord Krishna, the peacock-feathered and flute-playing deity, is one of the most loved and worshipped gods in the world. While many know the stories of his life, not everyone knows about his deep and special connection with the number 8.
From the very beginning, the number 8 appeared in almost every part of Krishna’s life. He was the 8th avatar of Lord Vishnu and the 8th child of Devaki and Vasudev. He was born on the 8th day (Ashtami) of the Bhadrapada month, inside a jail with 8 doors. Throughout his life, 8 was everywhere — from the 8 principal gopis (Ashta Sakhi) and 8 wives (Ashta Patraniya) to eating 8 meals a day and living for exactly 125 years, 8 months, and 8 days. Even in the Mahabharata, he served as Arjun’s charioteer at the age of 89, a number that also adds up to 8.
According to an old story, when Lord Vishnu incarnated as Lord Ram, his birth took place during the day on Navami (the 9th day). The moon, the number 8 date, storms, and Yamuna river felt left out as they couldn’t welcome him. Lord Ram promised that in his next incarnation as Krishna, they would all be present — which is why many of his life events are tied to the number 8. In numerology, 8 represents infinity, balance, strength, prosperity, and wisdom — all qualities Lord Krishna embodied.
On this Janmashtami, ISH wishes everyone joy and blessings, and invites you to watch the translated animated series Little Krishna here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPnEQSFoqH0&list=PLRas9Wj3fdFKkUjPrhMBXnGRNQE7yw7M9
