The Manifestation as Bhairava

Bhairava is a fierce and terrifying aspect of Shiva, associated with annihilation and the protection of sacred spaces. He is worshipped for his power to remove fear and grant protection.

The manifestation of Lord Shiva as Bhairava is one of his most significant and intriguing forms. Bhairava is often depicted as a fierce and terrifying deity, embodying the destructive and protective aspects of Shiva. Here are the detailed aspects and stories associated with Bhairava:

The Origin of Bhairava

1. Brahma’s Arrogance : One of the most popular legends explaining the origin of Bhairava involves Brahma, the creator god. Brahma became arrogant and began to consider himself as the supreme creator. To humble Brahma and to teach him a lesson, Shiva manifested as Bhairava.

2. Severing Brahma’s Fifth Head : In this fierce form, Bhairava cut off Brahma’s fifth head, symbolizing the removal of Brahma’s ego and arrogance. As a result, Brahma realized his mistake and acknowledged Shiva's supremacy.

Forms and Depictions of Bhairava

 Ashta Bhairavas : 

There are eight primary forms of Bhairava, known as Ashta Bhairavas. Each one represents a different aspect of Shiva and is associated with specific directions and purposes. The Ashta Bhairavas are:

Asithanga Bhairava

Ruru Bhairava

Chanda Bhairava

Krodha Bhairava

Unmatta Bhairava

Kapala Bhairava

Bheeshana Bhairava

Samhara Bhairava

 Depictions in Art :

• Appearance : Bhairava is typically depicted with a fierce expression, fangs, and a garland of skulls (mundamala). He often holds weapons such as a trident (trishula), a drum (damaru), and a noose (pasha).
• Vahana (Vehicle ): Bhairava’s vehicle is a dog, symbolizing his role as a guardian and protector.
• Attire : He is adorned with serpents and wears a headdress of hair standing on end, emphasizing his wild and untamed nature.

Significance of Bhairava

1. Protector of the Directions :

• Bhairava is considered the guardian of the eight cardinal directions, each Ashta Bhairava protecting one direction. This aspect emphasizes his role in safeguarding the universe and maintaining cosmic order.

2. Role in Tantra :

• In Tantric traditions, Bhairava is a significant deity, representing the fierce aspect of Shiva that destroys ignorance and grants spiritual liberation. Tantric practices often invoke Bhairava for protection, empowerment, and the removal of obstacles.

3. Symbolism of Fearlessness :

• Bhairava embodies the concept of fearlessness (abhaya). Worshipping Bhairava is believed to remove fear and provide courage to face challenges.

Major Temples and Worship

1. Bhairava Temples :

• Kashi Vishwanath Temple (Varanasi) : The Bhairava shrine in this temple is highly revered. Bhairava is considered the Kotwal (protector) of Varanasi, and pilgrims visit his temple to seek his blessings.
• Kala Bhairava Temple (Ujjain) : Another prominent Bhairava temple, where devotees offer prayers and seek protection.

2. Rituals and Offerings :

• Offerings : Devotees offer liquor, meat, and other items to Bhairava, which are considered auspicious and pleasing to him.
• Bhairava Ashtami : A significant festival dedicated to Bhairava, observed on the eighth day of the waning moon in the Hindu month of Margashirsha. Devotees fast and offer special prayers on this day.

Legends and Stories

1. Bhairava and the Curse of Brahmahatya :

• Wandering with Brahma’s Skull : After severing Brahma’s head, Bhairava wandered with the skull stuck to his hand, symbolizing the sin of killing a Brahmin (Brahmahatya). This curse was finally lifted when Bhairava reached the holy city of Varanasi, where the skull fell off, symbolizing the purification of sins.

2. Bhairava and the Pine Forest Sages :

• Testing the Sages: In another legend, Bhairava tested the devotion of ascetic sages in the Pine Forest by appearing as a beggar. The sages, angered by his intrusion, tried to harm him. Bhairava revealed his true form, leading to the sages’ enlightenment.

Philosophical Aspects

1. Destruction of Ego :

• Bhairava’s act of severing Brahma’s head symbolizes the destruction of ego and arrogance, teaching the importance of humility and the recognition of the supreme divine power.

2. Guardian of Dharma :

• As the protector of the directions and the remover of fear, Bhairava upholds Dharma (righteousness) and ensures the balance and harmony of the universe.

Conclusion

The manifestation of Lord Shiva as Bhairava encapsulates the fierce, protective, and transformative aspects of the divine. Through various myths, forms, and worship practices, Bhairava teaches the importance of fearlessness, humility, and the destruction of ignorance. Devotees revere Bhairava for his power to protect, grant courage, and lead them towards spiritual liberation.