#somadev

According to the Sanskrit-English Dictionary by Monier-williams, Monier, Sir, Soma means “distill”, “extract”, “sprinkle” (also used in context with various words such as संसु suṣvi and सुत् Sut, which is basically extracting juice/or soma as an offering to a deity) , these words referring to the methods by which the liquid is obtained from the Soma plant (which Vic Dicara believes this plant to be called soma-vallī. A plant that’s currently extinct). The liquid from this plant was said to been used to make a drink, referred to as Amrita (which means “not death” and to not die is to be immortal, to be deathless), which provided immortality (one of the reasons it’s referred to as the nectar/elixr of immortality) and all sorts of benefits, such as energy, strength, vitality, youthfulness. to the consumer. Soma is a deity that is associated with Mrigashira. Soma is both a deity and this sacred plant (more so a personified, divine form) Through Soma, the devas are sustained, empowered, and elevated beyond ordinary limits, which is why Indra is often depicted as consuming it in excess to amplify his power (whose noted to be an excessive drinker of Soma). Just as Soma’s relationship to Indra was portrayed in stories, there could also be an Indra like figure in the life of a Mrigahsira native that is dependent on them for strength (more accurately would be energy) as well.

Notes on top of notes: The creator of the character Popeye was E. C. Segar, who has his Sun in Jyestha (Indra is the primary deity associated with Jyestha) Interestingly, the metal iron is associated with Mars (significator for our strength and energy), spinach is said to be a good source for Iron (though other vegetables can provide even more). I mention spinach because the character Popeye eats it. Consuming spinach regularly can help strengthen Mars (and Moon as well). I’m not surprised spinach would be portrayed as a source that provided strength to this character (created by a Jyestha native).

P.S. I’m not a professional or doctor so please do not see me as one.