Why is Shiva called Bhairava? A Fascinating Mythology Involving The Great God of The Gods Shiva
Shiva is called Bhairava for several reasons, each highlighting different aspects of his divine nature. The term “Bhairava” originates from the Sanskrit word “Bhairava,” which means ‘terrifying’ or ‘frightful.’ Shiva as Bhairava embodies a fierce and formidable aspect of the divine. This aspect is associated with destruction, dissolution, and the power to overcome ignorance and obstacles on the spiritual path.
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Why is Shiva called Bhairava?
Bhairava is often depicted as a guardian and protector of devotees. He is believed to fiercely defend the righteous and destroy evil forces. Devotees worship Bhairava seeking protection, courage, and fearlessness.
Bhairava is also associated with the concept of time and death. He is sometimes referred to as “Kala Bhairava,” where “Kala” signifies time. In this aspect, Bhairava is the lord of time, symbolizing the eternal cycle of creation, preservation, and destruction. Another interpretation of Bhairava’s name is related to the transcendence of fear. By meditating upon Bhairava, devotees seek to overcome their fears and attachments, ultimately attaining liberation (moksha).
What Is the Story of The Bhairava God?
The story of Bhairava is rich with mythology and symbolism, with variations across different Hindu traditions and texts. One popular narrative revolves around Bhairava’s manifestation from Shiva’s wrath and subsequent redemption. The story goes like this-
Once, a great conflict arose between Brahma, the creator deity, and Vishnu, the preserver deity, regarding their superiority. The dispute escalated to the point where they were on the verge of engaging in a cosmic battle. Witnessing this, Shiva intervened to restore balance. In his fury, Shiva manifested a blazing pillar of fire, challenging Brahma and Vishnu to find its ends. Brahma took the form of a swan and flew upward to locate the top, while Vishnu transformed into a boar and burrowed into the earth to find its base.
After an exhaustive search, neither Brahma nor Vishnu could find the limits of the fiery pillar. Realizing the futility of their efforts, they humbly returned to Shiva. However, Brahma, in his pride, lied to Shiva, claiming to have found the top of the pillar. Shiva, being omniscient, saw through Brahma’s deceit and was infuriated by his arrogance. Out of Shiva’s matted locks, a terrifying form emerged – Bhairava, wielding a blazing trident. Bhairava, representing Shiva’s wrathful aspect, chased Brahma in a fit of rage. In fear and desperation, Brahma sought refuge in Vishnu, pleading for his protection. Vishnu, realizing the severity of the situation, calmed Bhairava and reminded Shiva of the importance of forgiveness and compassion. Touched by Vishnu’s plea, Shiva’s anger subsided, and Bhairava reverted to his peaceful form.
Shiva then bestowed upon Bhairava the boon of being worshipped as a guardian and protector of devotees, especially in times of fear and danger. Bhairava became revered as a fierce yet benevolent deity, embodying the power to annihilate evil and protect the righteous. This tale illustrates Bhairava’s role as a transformative force, symbolizing the need to confront and transcend one’s ego and ignorance. Bhairava is worshipped by devotees seeking protection, courage, and liberation from worldly attachments.
What are the Tantric Forms of Shiva?
Shiva, the Hindu god of destruction and transformation, is associated with various tantric forms that represent different aspects of his divine nature. Some of the prominent tantric forms of Shiva I have noted.
Bhairava:
Bhairava is the fierce aspect of Shiva, embodying raw power, intensity, and destruction. He is often depicted with a terrifying appearance, adorned with skulls and weapons, symbolizing the destruction of ignorance and ego.
Kapalika:
Kapalika is a form of Shiva associated with asceticism, renunciation, and the worship of skulls (kapalas). Followers of Kapalika tradition engage in extreme practices to transcend worldly attachments and attain liberation.
Aghori:
Aghoris are devotees of Shiva who embrace unconventional and taboo practices, including consuming human flesh, meditating in cremation grounds, and wearing human bones. They seek to transcend social norms and egoic attachments to realize the divine unity in all things.
Pashupati:
Pashupati is the lord of animals and represents Shiva’s connection to the animal kingdom. He is worshipped as the protector of animals and the guardian of nature, symbolizing harmony and balance in the natural world.
Nataraja:
Nataraja, also known as the Lord of Dance, is a divine form of Shiva performing the cosmic dance of creation, preservation, and destruction. His dance symbolizes the rhythmic cycles of the universe and the divine harmony underlying all existence.
Dakshinamurti:
Dakshinamurti is a manifestation of Shiva as the supreme teacher (guru) who imparts spiritual wisdom and guidance to his disciples. He is often depicted in a meditative posture, surrounded by disciples seeking knowledge and enlightenment.
Rudra:
Rudra is a fierce and wrathful form of Shiva associated with storms, thunder, and destruction. He is revered as the divine force that purifies and rejuvenates the universe through his destructive power.
Bhuteshwara:
Bhuteshwara is the lord of ghosts and spirits, representing Shiva’s dominion over the supernatural realms. Devotees seek his protection from malevolent spirits and invoke his blessings for spiritual liberation.
Lingodbhava:
Lingodbhava is a form of Shiva where he manifests as a lingam, the symbolic representation of his cosmic energy and creative power. This form symbolizes the unmanifest aspect of Shiva from which the universe emerges.
Mahakala:
Mahakala is a fierce and wrathful form of Shiva associated with time, death, and the destruction of ignorance. He is depicted as a fearsome deity adorned with skulls and wielding weapons, symbolizing the inevitability of death and the impermanence of all things.
Rishabha:
Rishabha is the divine bull that serves as Shiva’s mount and vehicle. Symbolizing strength, stability, and fertility, Rishabha is worshipped as a guardian and protector of sacred spaces, particularly Shiva temples.
Chandrasekhara:
Chandrasekhara is a form of Shiva where he wears the crescent moon on his forehead. The crescent moon symbolizes the cyclical nature of time and the waxing and waning phases of the lunar cycle, representing Shiva’s mastery over time and cosmic rhythms.
Kailasanatha:
Kailasanatha is the lord of Mount Kailash, the abode of Shiva. This form symbolizes Shiva’s transcendence of worldly attachments and his dwelling in the highest realms of consciousness.
Panchanana:
Panchanana, meaning “five-faced,” is a form of Shiva with five heads, each representing different aspects of his divine nature. This form symbolizes Shiva’s omnipresence, omniscience, and omnipotence.
When Did Mahadev Become Bhairav?
In Hindu mythology, the transformation of Mahadev into Bhairav is a complex and multifaceted concept with various interpretations. “Mahadev” is a title often associated with Lord Shiva, who is considered one of the principal deities in Hinduism. “Bhairav,” on the other hand, is a fierce and formidable form of Shiva associated with destruction and protection.
The exact moment or event when Mahadev transforms into Bhairav isn’t explicitly mentioned in Hindu scriptures. Instead, the transition from one form to another is often seen as a symbolic representation of Shiva’s multifaceted nature and his ability to manifest in different forms for different purposes.
In some interpretations, Bhairav is considered a fierce manifestation of Shiva that emerges during moments of anger or destruction. This transformation symbolizes the aspect of Shiva’s divine energy that brings about destruction to pave the way for regeneration and renewal.
Bhairav is often associated with specific temples and regions where he is worshipped as a primary deity. Devotees may have their own interpretations and beliefs regarding the transformation of Mahadev into Bhairav, which can vary based on cultural, regional, and religious traditions.
Why Did Parvati Curse Bhairav?
Parvati, yearning to reunite with Shiva in the kingdom of Banasur, encountered an unexpected obstacle: Bhairava, the fierce guardian entrusted with the realm’s security. Despite Parvati’s earnest attempts to reason with him, Bhairava adamantly denied her passage, citing concerns for safety and order.
Frustration boiled within Parvati as her pleas fell on deaf ears. In a moment of intense indignation, she uttered a potent curse upon Bhairava, rebuking his steadfastness in protecting the kingdom. In her wrath, she decreed that if Bhairava prided himself on his role as a guardian, then he must assume the form of a mortal and diligently safeguard humanity for countless centuries to come.
This impulsive act of cursing Bhairava not only reflected Parvati’s frustration but also underscored the consequences of obstructing the divine will. Bhairava, now burdened with the weight of Parvati’s curse, would embark on a profound journey of redemption, learning invaluable lessons about humility, compassion, and the true nature of guardianship.
Why Is Liquor Offered to Bhairav?
Liquor is offered to Bhairav as part of Hindu religious rituals and traditions for several reasons:
Symbol of Renunciation:
Bhairav is often depicted as a fierce and uncompromising deity who embodies the qualities of detachment and renunciation. Offering liquor symbolizes the act of surrendering worldly attachments and desires to the divine.
Destroyer of Ego:
Liquor is considered a potent substance that can alter one’s consciousness. By offering liquor to Bhairav, devotees seek to transcend their ego and connect with the divine on a deeper level, free from the limitations of the material world.
Activation of Spiritual Energy:
In Hinduism, certain substances are believed to possess spiritual energy that can awaken higher consciousness. Liquor is sometimes viewed as one such substance that, when offered with devotion, can activate spiritual energies within the worshipper and facilitate a deeper spiritual experience.
Tradition and Custom:
Offering liquor to Bhairav has been a longstanding tradition in many Hindu communities and temples. It is often seen as a form of worship that has been passed down through generations, deeply rooted in cultural and religious practices.
Pacification of Bhairav’s Fierce Nature:
Bhairav is revered as a fierce deity who possesses immense power and energy. Offering liquor is believed to appease his ferocious nature and invoke his blessings for protection, courage, and fearlessness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Bhairava:
- Who is Bhairava?
- Bhairava is a fierce form of the Hindu god Shiva. He is often depicted as a fearsome deity associated with destruction, protection, and transcendence.
- What does the name “Bhairava” mean?
- The term “Bhairava” originates from the Sanskrit word “Bhairava,” which means ‘terrifying’ or ‘frightful.’ It signifies the formidable and awe-inspiring aspect of Shiva.
- What is the significance of worshipping Bhairava?
- Devotees worship Bhairava seeking protection, courage, and fearlessness. He is believed to guard devotees against evil forces and obstacles on the spiritual path.
- Why is liquor offered to Bhairava in some rituals?
- Liquor is offered to Bhairava as part of Hindu religious rituals to symbolize renunciation, transcendence of ego, activation of spiritual energy, and pacification of his fierce nature.
- What are the different forms of Bhairava?
- Bhairava has various manifestations, each representing different aspects of his divine nature. Some of the well-known forms include Kaal Bhairava, Kala Bhairava, Asitanga Bhairava, and Ruru Bhairava.
- What are the traditional symbols associated with Bhairava?
- Bhairava is often depicted with symbols such as a skull cup (kapala), a trident (trishula), a drum (damaru), a sword (khadga), and a dog as his vahana (vehicle).
- What is the significance of Bhairava temples?
- Temples dedicated to Bhairava are considered sacred places where devotees seek blessings for protection, liberation from fear, and spiritual growth. These temples often host rituals and festivals dedicated to Bhairava.
- Is Bhairava worshipped in specific regions or traditions?
- Bhairava is worshipped across various regions of India and in different sects of Hinduism. However, certain regions and traditions may have specific rituals and customs associated with his worship.
- What is the connection between Bhairava and time?
- Bhairava is sometimes associated with the concept of time, known as “Kala Bhairava.” He symbolizes the eternal cycle of creation, preservation, and destruction, highlighting the transient nature of existence.
- How can one seek the blessings of Bhairava?
- Devotees can seek the blessings of Bhairava through sincere prayers, offerings, meditation, and by living a righteous life. Visiting Bhairava temples and participating in rituals dedicated to him are also common ways to seek his divine grace.
- What are the rituals associated with Bhairava worship?
- Rituals for worshipping Bhairava vary based on regional and cultural traditions. Common rituals include offering flowers, incense, lamp (diya), vermillion (sindoor), and liquor. Devotees may also recite mantras and perform aarti (ritual of waving light).
- Are there specific festivals dedicated to Bhairava?
- Yes, there are festivals dedicated to Bhairava celebrated in different parts of India. One notable festival is the Kaal Bhairav Jayanti, which marks the birth anniversary of Kaal Bhairava and is observed with special prayers and rituals.
- Is there any significance of Bhairava in tantra and occult practices?
- Bhairava holds significance in tantra as a deity associated with mysticism and occult practices. In tantric rituals, Bhairava is revered for his transformative energy and is invoked for various spiritual purposes.
- What is the symbolic representation of Bhairava’s attributes?
- Bhairava’s symbolic attributes reflect his fierce nature and spiritual significance. For example, the trident (trishula) represents his power to destroy, while the skull cup (kapala) symbolizes the transitory nature of life and death.
- Can anyone worship Bhairava, or are there any restrictions?
- Bhairava is worshipped by devotees from various backgrounds and walks of life. However, it is essential to approach his worship with sincerity, reverence, and understanding of his divine attributes.
- Are there any scriptures or texts dedicated to Bhairava?
- Yes, there are scriptures and texts that mention Bhairava, including the Tantras, Puranas, and various hymns (stotras) dedicated to him. These texts provide insights into Bhairava’s mythology, symbolism, and rituals.
- What is the role of Bhairava in Hindu mythology and folklore?
- Bhairava plays various roles in Hindu mythology and folklore, including as a guardian deity, a destroyer of evil, and a symbol of transcendence. His stories highlight the complexities of human emotions and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment.
- Is there any association of Bhairava with specific animals or symbols?
- Yes, Bhairava is often associated with a dog as his vahana (vehicle). The presence of a dog symbolizes his role as a guardian and protector. Additionally, other symbols such as the trident and skull represent his divine attributes.
Conclusion
Bhairava, the fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva, embodies the divine qualities of protection, destruction, and transcendence. Through his myths, rituals, and symbolism, Bhairava represents the eternal cycle of creation, preservation, and dissolution. Devotees worship Bhairava seeking protection from evil forces, courage to face challenges, and liberation from worldly attachments. His worship is rooted in ancient traditions, spanning across various regions and sects of Hinduism. Bhairava’s significance extends beyond mere mythological tales; he serves as a symbol of spiritual transformation, guiding devotees on the path towards enlightenment and liberation. Whether through rituals, prayers, or contemplation, the devotion to Bhairava reflects humanity’s eternal quest for transcendence and divine grace.
References
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