Ruru Bhairava is one of the eight manifestations of Bhairava, known as the Ashta Bhairavas, representing eight significant forms of Lord Shiva in his fierce aspect. These manifestations are crucial in Hindu traditions, especially in Tantric practices, where each form of Bhairava is connected to different directions and functions.
Ruru Bhairava is considered a tranquil and benevolent form of Bhairava, representing a balance between the fierce, destructive powers of Bhairava and the compassionate, protective energy that guides devotees toward liberation (moksha). His worship is revered for bringing mental peace, protection, wisdom, and eventual liberation from the cycles of birth and death.
Symbolism and Iconography
Ruru Bhairava is often depicted as holding a staff (symbolizing authority and discipline), a conch (representing sound and creation), a sword (symbolizing the cutting of ignorance), and a shield (providing protection from negative influences). His three eyes symbolize wisdom, foresight, and transcendence, representing the past, present, and future. These eyes are a common attribute of Lord Shiva, indicating his all-encompassing awareness.
In some depictions, Ruru Bhairava is shown clothed in the directions, which means that he is either depicted naked or clothed with minimal coverings, symbolizing his transcendence over worldly attachments and material desires. This form emphasizes the concept of renunciation, the shedding of worldly illusions (maya), and an absolute identification with the supreme consciousness.
The name "Ruru" signifies the power to protect and guide, as well as the granting of wisdom. It is believed that the benevolent nature of Ruru Bhairava bestows peace, happiness, and prosperity on his devotees.
Stories and Mythological Importance
Ruru Bhairava’s origin is linked to various myths, many of which portray him as the fierce protector of righteousness. His essence comes from Rudra, an ancient and fierce form of Shiva, representing both destruction and the forceful dissolution of ignorance. According to the Vamana Purana, he appeared during Shiva’s battle with Andhakasura, a powerful demon representing darkness and ignorance. When Shiva engaged Andhakasura in a deadly duel, different forms of Bhairava manifested to aid Shiva in his battle, and Ruru Bhairava was among them, embodying the might and wisdom needed to destroy ignorance.
In other interpretations, Ruru Bhairava is seen as a spiritual teacher, providing protection from dangers and liberating devotees from earthly attachments, helping them attain self-realization and union with the divine.
Worship and Rituals
Worshipping Ruru Bhairava is deeply significant for spiritual seekers and devotees who wish to gain liberation from cycles of birth and death, negative influences, and worldly attachments. His worship is often performed with prayers, chanting of mantras, and specific rituals to invoke his protective and benevolent energies.
The worship of Ruru Bhairava usually involves:
Offerings: Devotees offer flowers, milk, fruits, and sometimes sweets during rituals. Offerings like red flowers, black sesame seeds, and mustard oil are commonly associated with Bhairava worship.
Chanting of Mantras: Devotees chant the mantras dedicated to Ruru Bhairava regularly to seek his blessings and protection.
Daily Chanting Mantra:
"Om Ruru Bhairavaya Namaha"
Chanting this mantra is believed to protect devotees from dangers and grant them peace and mental clarity.Mula Mantra (Root Mantra):
"Om Bham Bhagavate Rudraya Mahabhairavaya Joom Hoom Phat Swaha"
This powerful mantra invokes Ruru Bhairava in his full form, symbolizing the dissolution of ignorance and the liberation from worldly sufferings.
Fasting: Some devotees observe fasts on specific days, especially on Bhairava Ashtami (the day dedicated to Bhairava).
Benefits of Worship
Worshipping Ruru Bhairava is believed to bring several spiritual and material benefits:
Liberation from Negative Influences: Ruru Bhairava protects devotees from malevolent forces, both seen and unseen, such as evil spirits, black magic, and harmful energies.
Attainment of Wisdom: Devotees gain deep spiritual wisdom, mental flexibility, and insight. His worship helps to dispel ignorance and guide seekers toward enlightenment.
Relief from Stress and Anxiety: His benevolent form brings peace of mind and reduces stress and anxiety by fostering inner strength, discipline, and clarity.
Protection and Courage: Ruru Bhairava is invoked for protection in daily life and during times of great uncertainty. His devotees believe he bestows courage and helps them overcome obstacles and fears.
Family Harmony: Devotees pray to him for fostering harmony and peace within families and workplaces, dissolving conflicts, and improving relationships.
Salvation: Ruru Bhairava is known as Vimochaka, the liberator. Devotees believe that his worship leads to spiritual liberation, freeing the soul from the continuous cycle of birth and rebirth (samsara).
Related Forms of Bhairava
- Asitanga Bhairava: Represents the primordial aspect of Shiva, linked to the element of creation and often depicted with dark colors, symbolizing the mysteries of the unknown.
- Unmatta Bhairava: A wild and intense form of Bhairava, symbolizing uncontrolled divine energy, which destroys ignorance and illusions.
- Krodha Bhairava: A wrathful form of Bhairava, channeling the power of anger for righteousness and justice, ensuring the protection of Dharma.
- Kapala Bhairava: The skull-bearer, emphasizing the impermanence of life and the transcendence of physical existence.
Mantras and Prayers
Apart from the above mantras, devotional hymns like Bhairava Ashtakam and Bhairava Kavacham are chanted by devotees to invoke the various forms of Bhairava, including Ruru Bhairava.
- Bhairava Ashtakam: A set of eight verses praising Bhairava's attributes and requesting his protection and blessings.
- Bhairava Kavacham: A prayer that acts as an armor, providing spiritual protection to the devotees.
Ruru Bhairava, with his calm demeanor and powerful attributes, plays a crucial role in the Bhairava pantheon. His significance lies in his ability to grant liberation, wisdom, and peace while offering protection and courage. His worship is not just a call for material benefits but a profound spiritual journey, guiding devotees toward self-realization, mental clarity, and ultimate union with the divine.