Ananta (Infinite)

In Puranic and later symbolic accounts the term Ananta denotes that which is without end and functions as an epithet of Vishnu and as the name of the cosmic serpent Shesha. In cosmological scenes Vishnu reclines on Ananta/Shesha on the waters of the cosmic ocean during the intervals of creation (after pralaya); from Vishnu's navel the lotus that bears the next creation emerges. The usage is both linguistic (an epithet of the god conveying infinity) and mythic (a personified serpent that persistently supports the deity across cycles).

Ananta is represented in the sources chiefly as the cosmic serpent Shesha: a vast serpent often described as encircling the world and depicted with numerous heads (classical descriptions refer to a serpent with a thousand heads functioning as Vishnu's couch and canopy). Beyond 'serpent,' 'many heads,' and cosmic scale (couch of Vishnu, circling the world), the supplied material gives no consistent details of color or size.

Descriptions in the sources present Ananta/Shesha in cosmological and symbolic roles rather than as an agent performing interpersonal acts. Ananta 'circles the world,' endures through pralaya, and serves as the couch and protective canopy for Vishnu while he rests between creations, thereby embodying the divine attribute of infinity. The term also operates as an epithet of Vishnu, signifying the god's endlessness.