Lambitaraja, also known as Lambita Bhairava, is one of the Ashta Bhairavas—the eight ferocious manifestations of Lord Bhairava, who is a fearsome aspect of Lord Shiva. The Ashtabhairavas are revered in Shaivism, each with unique forms, attributes, and responsibilities for protecting the directions of the universe. The Lambitaraja form of Bhairava is particularly significant for its association with destruction and protection during times of intense battles.
Origin and Mythological Story:
According to the Vamana Purana, Lambitaraja Bhairava appeared when Shiva was engaged in a battle with Andhakasura, a powerful demon who represented ignorance and darkness. Andhaka desired the consort of Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, and waged war against Shiva to capture her. In response, Lord Shiva, enraged by this arrogance, took on his Bhairava form. During the fierce battle, Lambitaraja, a terrifying form of Bhairava, manifested to annihilate the demon army and instill fear in Andhaka.
Lambitaraja Bhairava’s garland, often described as long and hanging down from his neck, symbolizes destruction. The garland is typically composed of skulls, severed heads, or other fearsome objects. These represent the victory over enemies and negative forces, including ignorance, ego, and malevolent energies.
The story showcases the role of Bhairava in upholding dharma (righteousness) by destroying adharma (evil and unrighteousness), protecting the universe, and ensuring the cosmic order.
Symbolism:
- Garland of Skulls: The garland of skulls represents the transitory nature of life, emphasizing the inevitability of death. It is a symbol of Shiva’s role as the destroyer and transformer.
- Weaponry: Lambitaraja Bhairava is often depicted holding weapons like a trident (trishula), sword, and noose, signifying his ability to destroy the evil within and without.
- Terrifying Appearance: His fierce countenance, garland of skulls, and weapons are designed to instill fear in the hearts of evildoers, symbolizing his protective nature for those on the path of righteousness.
- Blue or Dark Skin: Bhairava’s form is sometimes depicted with dark or blue skin, representing the absorption of all negativity and ignorance into his being, just as Lord Shiva drank the poison during the churning of the cosmic ocean.
Importance in Worship:
Lambitaraja Bhairava is worshiped to overcome enemies, remove obstacles, and ward off evil influences. His worship is especially significant for those seeking protection in dangerous situations or those engaged in fierce battles, either physical or spiritual.
Benefits of Worshiping Lambitaraja Bhairava:
- Protection from Evil: Worshipers believe Lambitaraja Bhairava provides protection from all forms of negative energies, including black magic, malevolent spirits, and enemies.
- Removal of Fear: His fearsome form helps devotees confront their inner fears and doubts, enabling spiritual growth.
- Destruction of Ego and Ignorance: Worship of Bhairava, including Lambitaraja, helps destroy the ego and ignorance that bind a person to material existence.
- Success in Difficult Situations: Devotees seek his blessings for success in difficult tasks, whether in personal battles or challenges in life.
- Pacifying Malevolent Forces: His presence is invoked to pacify hostile forces, both internal (such as anger, jealousy, etc.) and external.
Mantras and Prayers:
Mantras dedicated to Lambitaraja Bhairava are recited to invoke his protective and destructive powers. These mantras are believed to create a shield of protection around the devotee.
Mantra for Lambitaraja Bhairava: One of the popular mantras used in the worship of Lambitaraja Bhairava is:
“Om Hreem Lambitaraja Bhairavaya Namaha”
This mantra is believed to invoke his presence and protection. It is chanted for spiritual purification, protection from enemies, and to gain inner strength.
Another powerful Bhairava mantra commonly used during his worship is:
“Om Bhairavaya Krodharupaya Lambitarajaya Namaha”
This mantra emphasizes his anger-fueled form, calling upon his energy to destroy obstacles and challenges.
Worship Practices:
The worship of Lambitaraja Bhairava is traditionally done in temples dedicated to Bhairava or specific Bhairava shrines. Worshipers often offer bilva leaves, flowers, coconuts, and other sacred items. Offerings such as food, sweets, and meat are made to satisfy the deity, and special oil lamps (deepas) are lit to dispel darkness.
Key Rituals in Worship:
- Aarti and Abhishekam: Devotees perform abhishekam (ritual bathing of the deity) with substances like water, milk, ghee, and honey. After the abhishekam, aarti (waving of lamps) is performed to invoke the divine presence.
- Special Offerings: Some devotees offer alcohol and meat to Bhairava, as these substances symbolize offerings to a deity who transcends normal societal boundaries.
- Lighting of Oil Lamps: Special ghee or mustard oil lamps are lit during the worship of Bhairava, symbolizing the illumination of the mind and destruction of ignorance.
- Recitation of Bhairava Mantras: Chanting the specific Bhairava mantras or hymns like the Bhairava Ashtakam is an integral part of the ritual.
Similar Deities and Forms:
As one of the Ashtabhairavas, Lambitaraja Bhairava is closely associated with the other forms of Bhairava, each of which governs different aspects of cosmic protection and destruction. The Ashtabhairavas are:
- Asithanga Bhairava – Protects the east
- Ruru Bhairava – Governs the southeast
- Chanda Bhairava – Governs the south
- Krodha Bhairava – Rules over the southwest
- Unmatta Bhairava – Protects the west
- Kapala Bhairava – Watches over the northwest
- Bhishana Bhairava – Guards the north
- Samhara Bhairava – Associated with the northeast and the final dissolution of the universe.
Each Bhairava represents a different phase or manifestation of Lord Shiva’s destructive power, symbolizing the cycle of creation, preservation, and destruction.
Symbolism in Daily Life:
Lambitaraja Bhairava's worship emphasizes that destruction is an essential aspect of transformation. Just as he destroyed the demon Andhaka, his energy can help in destroying ignorance, arrogance, and the obstacles that prevent spiritual progress. The garland of skulls that adorns him is a reminder of the impermanence of life and the importance of spiritual realization beyond the physical world.
Through his fierce aspect, Lambitaraja teaches that fear must be confronted to realize the ultimate truth, and only through dissolution of the ego can one attain enlightenment.
In conclusion, Lambitaraja Bhairava embodies the fearsome yet protective aspect of Shiva, signifying the destruction of negativity and the protection of cosmic order. Worshipers approach him for courage, strength, and protection, especially in times of danger, confusion, or struggle. Through his worship, devotees aim to transcend fear, conquer inner demons, and move closer to spiritual liberation.