काल भैरव
Kaal Bhairava – Lord of Time & Fearlessness
“The fierce protector of Kashi, who dissolves fear and ego.”
Vahana
Time
Weapon
Detachment
Scroll Down
Symbolism
- Dog as Vahana: Represents Dharma, loyalty, and the ability to see beyond illusion.
- Skull (Kapala): Symbolizes detachment from ego and the physical form, transcending death.
- Trident/Danda (Staff): Represents the power to punish, control time, and destroy negativity.
- Fearsome Appearance: Instills fear in evil forces and removes fear from devotees.
- Garland of Skulls: Represents mastery over death and time.
Significance
- Lord of Time (Kala): Controls the flow of time and destiny.
- Guardian of Kashi: Protects the sacred city; it's believed one cannot attain moksha in Kashi without his grace.
- Destroyer of Fear & Ego: Helps devotees overcome internal and external fears and dissolve the ego.
- Remover of Obstacles & Sins: Worship helps clear hurdles and absolve sins.
- Connection to Death: Guides souls and presides over the transition.
Worship & Mantra
Common Worship Practices:
- Prayers for protection against untimely death, fear, and negative energies.
- Worshipped particularly on Bhairava Ashtami.
- Offerings often include black items, mustard oil, and items associated with dogs.
- Considered essential for pilgrims visiting Kashi.
Primary Mantra:
ॐ कालभैरवाय नमः (Om Kalabhairavaya Namah)
Kaal Bhairava Ashtakam (कालभैरवाष्टकम्)
Composed by Adi Shankaracharya, this powerful hymn praises Kaal Bhairava, the supreme Lord of Kashi, seeking his protection and grace.
देवराजसेव्यमानपावनाङ्घ्रिपङ्कजं
व्यालयज्ञसूत्रमिन्दुशेखरं कृपाकरम् ।
नारदादियोगिवृन्दवन्दितं दिगंबरं
काशिकापुराधिनाथ कालभैरवं भजे ॥१॥
व्यालयज्ञसूत्रमिन्दुशेखरं कृपाकरम् ।
नारदादियोगिवृन्दवन्दितं दिगंबरं
काशिकापुराधिनाथ कालभैरवं भजे ॥१॥
Meaning:I worship Kaal Bhairava, the supreme Lord of Kashi, whose lotus feet are revered by Indra (King of Devas), who wears a serpent as his sacred thread, has the moon on his forehead, is the bestower of mercy, is praised by Narada and other yogis, and is Digambara (clad in directions/naked).