Bhasma For Shiv Puja: Why does Lord Shiva apply ash on his body, know the reason behind it
Bhasma For Shiv Puja: Burning produces ashes, which stand for the transient character of the material world. Ash, which represents the last step, is created when substances burn and has no shape or identity. Devotees are reminded of the transience of life and the significance of spiritual endeavors by wearing vibhuti, which represents disengagement from the material world and ego. Vibhuti is a symbol of transcending the cycle of reincarnation and death. Vibhuti is used by Shiva, the deity of destruction, to represent the annihilation of ego and ignorance that results in spiritual rebirth. Ashes are seen as potent and holy. They are said to provide protection to the wearer by fending off evil and bad energy. Vibhuti’s spiritual potency is increased in rituals by sanctifying it with mantras and prayers.
A mythological tale
According to Hindu belief, Shivji once witnessed people dragging dead bodies while singing the name of Ram and said, “They are carrying the dead bodies while chanting the name of my Lord.” After everyone had departed, Mahadev recalled Shri Ram and wore the ashes from that fire on his body as Shivji arrived at the cremation. In a similar vein, another narrative claims that Shri Hari used his Sudarshan Chakra to burn Sati’s corpse as Shiva was performing Tandava after her death. Lord Shiva then placed Goddess Sati’s ashes to his body because he could no longer tolerate the anguish of being separated from her. Since then, Shivji is said to have developed a strong affection for ashes.
Making use of ashes
- Applying to the forehead: Tripund, or three horizontal lines of vibhuti, are applied on the forehead by devotees. In Hinduism, each line symbolizes a distinct trinity, such as the trinity of gods (Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva), the three stages of consciousness (waking, dreaming, and profound sleep), or the three gunas (qualities of nature: sattva, rajas, and tamas).
- Religious rituals: Vibhuti is used in a number of religious rites and ceremonies. It is used to wash and purify idols, holy items, and participants.
- Daily habit: To remind themselves of their dedication and spiritual objectives, many devotees use vibhuti as part of their everyday routine. It is seen as a tangible representation of their inner devotion to Shiva and a sign of their religion.
Bhasmasur is also connected to the narrative
A demon called Bhasmasur is mentioned in Hindu mythology. Shiva bestowed upon him the ability to transform whatever he comes into contact with into ashes. This tale emphasizes ash’s destructive potential and its association with Shiva. Lord Vishnu stepped in as Bhasmasura started to pose a danger, which caused Bhasmasura to destroy himself. Vibhuti’s symbolic value is furthered by this story’s emphasis on the notion of ultimate annihilation and return to ashes.
Spiritual guidance
Devotees are reminded by Vibhuti of the transience of the material world and the body. It inspires people to concentrate on the everlasting soul and spiritual development. In the same way that fire cleanses materials and leaves behind pure ashes, devotees wear vibhuti in an effort to purify their hearts and thoughts by burning away impurities and bad inclinations. Applying vibhuti represents a surrender of worldly attachments and wants, which is consistent with Lord Shiva’s ascetic values. In Shaivism, vibhuti, also known as holy ash, is a potent and deep symbol that stands for spiritual strength, detachment, purification, and triumph over death. It serves as a continual reminder of both the transient nature of physical life and the need for spiritual purity and dedication.