Bhairav

Bhairav is a Hindu deity worshipped primarily in Nepal and northern India. He is considered to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva and is believed to be the protector of the devotees. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of Bhairav, including his birth, names, wife, children, features, works, blessings, wars, worship, and his vehicle.

Who is Bhairav?

Bhairav is a fierce form of Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. He is also known as Bhairava, Kala Bhairava, and Veerabhadra. He is depicted as a black or dark-blue-skinned man with matted hair and a terrifying appearance. Bhairav is considered to be the lord of time and the destroyer of all obstacles.

When was Bhairav born?

According to Hindu mythology, Bhairav was born from the third eye of Lord Shiva when the latter was infuriated with Lord Brahma for lying. Brahma had lied about finding the end of the lingam (a symbol of Lord Shiva) while attempting to establish his superiority. Bhairav was created to punish Brahma for his falsehood. This incident is said to have taken place during the Satya Yuga.

Why was Bhairav born?

Bhairav was born to punish Lord Brahma for his falsehood. When Lord Shiva realized that Lord Brahma was lying, he got angry and opened his third eye. Bhairav was born from the flames that emanated from Shiva's third eye. He was given the task of punishing Lord Brahma, who had committed the sin of lying.

How was Bhairav born?

Bhairav was born from the third eye of Lord Shiva. When Lord Shiva was infuriated with Lord Brahma for lying, he opened his third eye, and Bhairav was born from the flames that emanated from it. Bhairav was given a fierce form and tasked with punishing Lord Brahma for his falsehood.

What are the names of Bhairav?

Bhairav is known by various names in different parts of India and Nepal. Some of his popular names include Bhairava, Kala Bhairava, Veerabhadra, Bhootnath, Batuk Bhairav, Rudra Bhairav, and Asitang Bhairav.

Who is the wife of Bhairav?

Bhairav is often depicted as an ascetic and is not associated with any particular female consort. However, in some traditions, he is believed to be married to the goddess Bhairavi or Durga.

Does Bhairav have any children?

There are various myths and legends associated with the children of Bhairav. In some traditions, he is believed to have a son named Bheema, while in others, he is said to have fathered several children, including Kala Bhairav, Bhishana Bhairav, and Chanda Bhairav.

What are the features of Bhairav?

Bhairav is depicted as a fierce and terrifying deity with a black or dark-blue complexion. He is often portrayed with a number of weapons, including a trident, a sword, and a skull-tipped staff. He is also depicted as wearing a garland of skulls around his neck and a snake around his waist. Bhairav is sometimes shown with a dog as his companion, which is believed to be his vehicle.

What are the works of Bhairav?

Bhairav is believed to be the protector of his devotees and the destroyer of all obstacles. He is worshipped by those seeking protection from their enemies or those wishing to overcome their fears. Bhairav is also believed to be the lord of time and is associated with the concept of death and rebirth. In some traditions, he is worshipped as a deity who can grant moksha, or liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Bhairav is also associated with the practice of tantra, which involves the use of various rituals and meditative techniques to achieve spiritual enlightenment. He is sometimes worshipped as the supreme tantric deity, and his devotees seek his blessings to gain mastery over their senses and to attain spiritual power.

What are the blessings of Bhairav?

Bhairav is believed to bless his devotees with protection, courage, and strength. Those who worship him with devotion are said to be granted victory over their enemies, freedom from fear, and the ability to overcome obstacles in their lives. Bhairav is also believed to be a powerful deity who can grant boons and fulfil the desires of his devotees.

Has Bhairav been involved in any wars?

There are various myths and legends associated with Bhairav and his involvement in wars. In some traditions, he is believed to have fought alongside Lord Shiva against demons and evil forces. He is also associated with the myth of Daksha Yagna, where he was created by Lord Shiva to avenge the insult of his wife, Sati.

How is Bhairav worshipped?

Bhairav is worshipped in various ways in different parts of India and Nepal. His worship often involves the use of tantric rituals and practices, including the chanting of mantras, the offering of meat, and the use of alcohol and other intoxicants.

In some traditions, Bhairav is worshipped by offering him black sesame seeds, jaggery, and coconut. His devotees also offer red flowers, incense, and lamps to seek his blessings. The worship of Bhairav is often associated with the festival of Bhairav Ashtami, which is celebrated on the eighth day of the Hindu month of Bhadrapada.

What is the vehicle of Bhairav?

Bhairav is often depicted with a dog as his vehicle. The dog is believed to symbolize loyalty, courage, and vigilance, which are qualities associated with Bhairav. In some traditions, Bhairav is also associated with other animals, including the bull, the lion, and the tiger.

Conclusion

Bhairav is a powerful and fierce deity worshipped by many in India and Nepal. He is associated with protection, courage, and strength and is believed to be the destroyer of all obstacles. His worship involves various tantric practices and rituals, and his devotees seek his blessings for spiritual and material prosperity. Bhairav is a unique and fascinating deity who continues to inspire devotion and awe among his followers.