Vighnaraja Bhairava is one of the eight fierce manifestations of Lord Bhairava, also known as Ashta Bhairavas. Each form of Bhairava holds a distinct energy and purpose within the Shaivite tradition, and Vighnaraja Bhairava is renowned for his power to remove obstacles for those who follow Dharma (righteousness) and create impediments for those who engage in evil or adharma. The name "Vighnaraja" itself is composed of two words: Vighna (obstacles) and Raja (king), symbolizing that he is the ruler over obstacles and impediments.
Origin and Mythology
According to the Vamana Purana, the Vighnaraja form of Bhairava appeared during Lord Shiva's battle with the demon Andhakasura, a powerful asura (demon) who represents ignorance and blind desire. Andhakasura had grown arrogant and attempted to take control of the universe. In response to this, Shiva took on multiple forms of Bhairava, and Vighnaraja Bhairava emerged specifically to weaken Andhakasura’s forces by instilling confusion, fear, and problems within his army.
In this fierce battle, Shiva, along with his manifestations like Vighnaraja Bhairava, ultimately destroyed Andhakasura. For those who are unrighteous, wicked, and deceitful, Vighnaraja Bhairava brings misfortune, confusion, and failure. But for devotees who walk on the path of Dharma, this form of Bhairava becomes a protector, removing obstacles and providing a smooth path toward success and spiritual upliftment.
Symbolism of Vighnaraja Bhairava
Appearance: In iconography, Bhairava is typically depicted as fierce and terrifying, symbolizing his ability to destroy evil. Vighnaraja Bhairava, in particular, often holds weapons like a trident, sword, or drum, representing his power over life, death, and time. His dark complexion represents the dissolution aspect of Shiva, where he absorbs all ignorance and obstacles.
Vehicle: Bhairava is generally depicted riding a dog, symbolizing loyalty, protection, and the guarding of secrets. The dog also represents the guardian of the threshold between material life and spiritual enlightenment.
Third Eye and Trident: Like Shiva, Vighnaraja Bhairava is shown with a third eye, symbolizing omniscience and his ability to see through ignorance. The trident represents his mastery over the three aspects of existence: creation, preservation, and destruction.
Destroyer of Evil and Obstacles: While his form may seem terrifying, it is deeply symbolic of his role as the remover of obstacles and destroyer of ignorance. His fierce demeanor is a representation of divine protection against evil forces.
Importance and Benefits of Worship
Worshiping Vighnaraja Bhairava is especially beneficial for overcoming challenges, removing obstacles, and gaining protection from negative influences in life. For devotees:
Obstacle Removal: Those who face difficulties in their daily life, whether in personal or professional matters, can worship Vighnaraja Bhairava to receive his blessings for the removal of those obstacles.
Protection from Evil: As a protector of Dharma, worship of Vighnaraja Bhairava ensures safety from negative energies, evil forces, black magic, and ill intentions of others.
Success in Ventures: Devotees seek his blessings for the smooth progression of endeavors, whether it be business, education, or other ventures.
Spiritual Progress: For spiritual seekers, Vighnaraja Bhairava aids in clearing mental and spiritual blocks, allowing for deeper meditation, focus, and understanding of the divine truths.
Confidence and Strength: Worship of Vighnaraja Bhairava grants inner strength, self-confidence, and resilience in the face of life's challenges.
Worship and Rituals
Worship of Vighnaraja Bhairava typically involves offerings, prayers, and chanting of specific mantras dedicated to Bhairava. Temples dedicated to Bhairava often include his eight forms, and Vighnaraja is especially propitiated for obstacle removal.
Mantras: One of the primary mantras for invoking Bhairava, including Vighnaraja Bhairava, is:
- "Om Hreem Bhairavaya Namah" This mantra is believed to invoke the protective and obstacle-removing aspects of Bhairava.
Prayers and Offerings: Devotees offer flowers, lamps, food (especially sweets), and water to the deity. Some may also offer alcohol, which is considered an offering to Bhairava in certain tantric traditions.
Day of Worship: The most auspicious time to worship Bhairava is on Ashtami Tithi (eighth day of the lunar fortnight) and particularly during Kala Ashtami days, which are dedicated to Bhairava.
Temples: Many Bhairava temples can be found across India, but Varanasi is considered a particularly important place for Bhairava worship, where Kalabhairava is the guardian deity of the city. Some temples may specifically revere Vighnaraja Bhairava, though he is often included as part of the broader Ashtabhairava worship.
Stories and Legends
There are several stories associated with Bhairava, most notably the legend of Brahma’s head. According to this tale, when Brahma, the creator god, became arrogant and boasted about his superiority, Shiva manifested as Bhairava and decapitated one of Brahma’s heads to humble him. This event signified the destruction of ego and pride.
In another story, Bhairava, in his Vighnaraja form, is said to have been instrumental in defeating the demon Tripurasura, who had created three formidable cities. Lord Shiva, in his Bhairava forms, defeated Tripurasura and his army, restoring peace and Dharma.
Similar Forms of Bhairava
Asitanga Bhairava: Associated with the element of fire, and connected to the direction East.
Ruru Bhairava: Known for his gentle nature, associated with protection and guidance.
Chanda Bhairava: A fierce form associated with ferocity, discipline, and the south-west direction.
Krodha Bhairava: Another fierce manifestation of Shiva, symbolizing wrath and anger against unrighteousness.
Unmatta Bhairava: Linked to ecstatic divine madness, transcending social norms and breaking free of illusions.
Kapala Bhairava: The skull-bearer, symbolizing the transient nature of life and his role as a liberator from the cycle of birth and death.
Bheeshana Bhairava: The terrifying aspect, symbolizing war, anger, and destruction of enemies.
Samhara Bhairava: The annihilator, representing the destruction of the universe at the end of time.
Vighnaraja Bhairava is a powerful deity whose worship brings immense benefits for those who are devoted to righteousness and Dharma. His form, though fierce and intimidating, represents the ultimate power of Shiva in protecting the good and punishing the wicked. Devotees who revere him with sincerity and devotion are blessed with the removal of obstacles, protection from evil forces, and a clear path toward success and spiritual liberation.