Saturday 2 July 2011

WHY DO WE APPLY BHASM, VIBHUTI OR HOLY ASH

Summary: Bhasma or Vibhuti or Holy Ash is the ash from the homa or the Yagna or sacrificial fire where a kind of special wood ...

Bhasma or Vibhuti or Holy Ash is the ash from the homa or the Yagna or sacrificial fire where a kind of special wood along with ghee and other herbs or jadi booti is offered as worship of the Lord or deity. Generally, bhasma is applied on the forehead.

There is a special significance attached to the word Bhasma. It destroys our sins and brings us closer to the Lord. Bhasma is also called Vibhuti. The dictionary meaning of Vibhuti is glory. it gives glory to one who applies it. Vibhuti is also a source of protection. It protects the wearer from all kinds of evils, ill health and miseries.

Bhasma is specially associated with Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva applies it all over His body. The devotees of Lord Shiva apply it as a tripundra. When applied with a red spot at the center it symbolizes Shiva – Shakti i.e. _ the unity of energy and matter that creates the entire seen and unseen universe. A good number of devotees also consume a pinch of it. Each time they receive it.

The offering of oblations into the fire with the chanting of sacred mantras signifies the surrender of the ego and egocentric desires into the blame of knowledge. In this way we worship the three eyed Lord Shiva who nourishes and spreads fragrance or sweet and pleasing scent in our life.

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