Introduction to Lord Bhairav
Lord Bhairav is worshipped in Hinduism as an extremely powerful and fierce form of Lord Shiva. Bhairav is considered the god of time, death, protection and justice. The form of Kaal Bhairav in particular is very popular among devotees and is known as the protector of Kashi.
The word “Bhairav” means the destroyer of fear. It is believed that worshipping Lord Bhairav provides protection from fear, negative energies and evil influences. Devotees also worship him for courage and confidence in life.
Importance of Ashta Bhairav
Hindu scriptures describe eight main forms of Lord Bhairav, which are called Ashta Bhairav. It includes divine forms like Kalabhairav, Sanhar Bhairav, Krodh Bhairav and Chandrachud Bhairav.
Each Bhairav form represents a different power and spiritual element. Kalabhairav is considered the most influential form among them, who is worshipped as the lord of time and death.
Origin of Lord Kalabhairav
According to mythology, Lord Kalabhairav was manifested from the anger of Lord Shiva. Once a dispute over supremacy started between Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu, due to which an imbalance was created in the entire universe.
At that time, Lord Shiva manifested Bhairav in his divine and fierce form. Lord Bhairav destroyed the ego of Brahma and established truth and religion. For this reason, he is considered the destroyer of ego and the protector of religion.
Lord Bhairav as the Kotwal of Kashi
Lord Kalabhairav is known as the Kotwal of Kashi. According to belief, seeing Kalabhairav before worshipping Lord Shiva in Kashi gives special merit.
Lord Bhairav destroys sins and inspires devotees to move forward on the right path. He is especially believed to be the protector of Kashi and the god of justice.
Description of Lord Bhairav's form
Lord Bhairav's form is considered extremely fierce and divine. He is depicted in a dark or blue-skinned form. He is depicted with a garland around his neck and snakes adorning his body.
Lord Kalabhairav is usually depicted with four arms. He holds weapons like trident, danda, noose and farsha in his hands. His vehicle is a dog, which is considered a symbol of awareness and loyalty.
Worship and Importance of Lord Bhairav
The worship of Lord Bhairav is considered especially auspicious at night. Devotees worship Kalabhairav with special devotion on Sundays, Tuesdays and Saturdays.
According to belief, the grace of Lord Bhairav provides protection from fear, evil forces, ghosts and enemies. His worship also provides mental strength and spiritual stability.
Kalashtami and Bhairav Jayanti
The eighth day of Krishna Paksha that comes every month is celebrated as Kalashtami. This day is considered very sacred for the worship of Lord Kalabhairav.
Kalashtami Jayanti is celebrated on the eighth day of Krishna Ashtami in the month of Margashirsha. On this day, devotees observe fast and perform special worship and chant mantras of Lord Bhairav.
Mantras of Lord Bhairav
Chanting the mantras of Lord Bhairav removes fear and increases self-strength. Devotees chant the Bhairav mantra for protection and positive energy.
॥ ॐ कालभाइरवाय नमह ॥
॥ Om Hraam Hriam Hraum Kaal Bhairava Namah ||
|| Om Kaalakalay Vidyamhe Kaalatitai Dhimahi Tanno Kaal Bhairava Prachodayat ||
Famous Temples of Lord Bhairava
There are many famous temples of Lord Bhairava in India. Among them, the Kaal Bhairava Temple of Ujjain, the Kaal Bhairava Temple of Varanasi and the Batuk Bhairava Temple of Delhi are particularly famous.
The Ghodakhal Bhairava Temple of Uttarakhand and the Bhairavnath Temple of Rajasthan also have great faith among the devotees. Every year thousands of devotees come here for darshan.
Spiritual Significance of Lord Bhairav
Lord Bhairav is considered the god of time, justice and protection. His worship develops fearlessness and self-confidence in the mind.
Through devotion to Lord Kaal Bhairav, devotees overcome their fear, ego and negative thoughts. His worship is considered extremely important for spiritual peace and a positive life.