When Shiva was deeply absorbed in his spiritual exuberance, forgetting the worlds. he was disturbed by cupid. Shakti was also observing penance to get the grace of Shiva. When Shiva opened his eyes, he burnt cupid. At that time six flashes, like lightning emerged, five from the five senses and one from the mind of Shiva. These became six babies and the heads and twelve arms. Because of this evolutionary process, Subrahmanya is also known as Shanmukha, six faced one. The six heads represent six rays or attributes, viz., wisdom, dispassion, strength, fame, wealth and divine powers.

Subrahmanya has two spouses, Valli and Deivayani. They represent will (Valli) and Action (Deivayani). He also holds a spear, given to himby his mother Sakti for removing the evil forces of Taraka. This pear (Vel) represents (jinana) knowledge. These three together denote the three cosmic energies of governing will, action and knowledge. He rides on a peacock, indicative of conquering pride, egoism and vanity.