Ruru Bhairava in the Sacred Circle of the 64 Bhairavas
Ruru Bhairava is one of the sixty four manifestations of Bhairava, the fierce and protective aspect of Lord Shiva. Within the sacred grouping known as the Ashtashta Bhairavas, or the 64 Bhairavas, Ruru Bhairava presides over the second group of eight forms. Though Bhairava is often perceived as terrifying and formidable, Ruru represents a refined and instructive dimension of that divine power. He embodies disciplined wisdom, spiritual authority, and the protective force of sacred knowledge.
The eight Bhairavas under his leadership are Krodadamstri, Jatadhara, Vishvarupa, Virupaksha, Para, Vajrahasta, and Mahakaya. These forms are described as four armed, adorned with jeweled ornaments, and bearing spiritual implements such as the akshamala or rosary, ankusha, veena, and pustaka. These objects signify mastery over mantra, control over the mind, harmony through divine sound, and scriptural wisdom.
Iconography and Symbolism
Ruru Bhairava is depicted with four arms, holding Parashu (axe), Mriga (deer), Khadga (sword), and Kapala (skull cup). Each object carries deep spiritual symbolism.
The Parashu represents the cutting away of ignorance and ego. The Khadga symbolizes decisive knowledge that severs bondage. The Mriga, or deer, represents the restless human mind, which Bhairava holds under control, indicating mastery over mental fluctuations. The Kapala signifies transcendence over death and the acceptance of impermanence, reminding devotees of the eternal nature of consciousness.
His mount is Vrishabha, the bull, symbolizing dharma, strength, and steadfastness. The bull also connects him directly to Shiva, as Vrishabha is traditionally the vehicle of Shiva. This association emphasizes that Bhairava is not separate from Shiva but is Shiva in a dynamic, protective form.
His consort is Mahesvari, a powerful manifestation of the Divine Mother. She stands to the left of Ruru Bhairava. Her lower hands are in Abhaya and Varada mudras, granting protection and blessings. Her upper hands hold Parashu and Pasha. The Pasha symbolizes control over worldly attachments, while the axe removes obstacles. Together, Ruru Bhairava and Mahesvari represent the union of wisdom and power, knowledge and action.
The Bhairava Principle in Tantra
In Tantra, Bhairava is the embodiment of supreme consciousness that dissolves fear. The word Bhairava is often interpreted as "he who removes fear" or "he who is beyond fear." In the Shiva Purana, Bhairava is described as emerging from Shiva’s wrath to uphold cosmic order and protect sacred law.
A well known verse from the Shiva Purana declares:
"Yada yada hi dharmasya glanir bhavati bhutale,
Tada aham bhairava rupam dhritva samharami duskritam."
(Shiva Purana, Vidyesvara Samhita)
This verse conveys that whenever righteousness declines, the Divine assumes fierce forms to restore balance.
Ruru Bhairava, as the head of his group, represents the instructive aspect of this divine intervention. Unlike purely destructive forms, he channels disciplined knowledge and structured spiritual practice. The presence of the rosary and scripture among his associated Bhairavas indicates emphasis on mantra japa, study, and sound as tools of liberation.
Spiritual Importance and Worship
Devotees approach Ruru Bhairava for clarity of mind, mastery over distractions, protection from negative influences, and progress in spiritual study. He is especially revered by those pursuing Tantric sadhana and mantra shastra.
The deer in his hand reminds seekers that the mind must be held gently yet firmly. The sword and axe remind that spiritual life demands courage. The skull cup teaches detachment from bodily identification. The bull conveys steadfast adherence to dharma.
Ruru Bhairava stands as a profound reminder that divine fierceness is not cruelty, but compassionate intervention. He is the guardian of sacred wisdom and the guide who transforms fear into disciplined awareness. Through him, the aspirant learns that true power lies in mastery of the self and unwavering devotion to Shiva.