Mahamrityunjay Mantra
ॐ त्र्यम्बकं यजामहेसुगन्धिं पुष्टिवर्धनम्उर्वारुकमिव बन्धनान्मृत्योर्मुक्षीय माऽमृतात्॥
Om Tryambakam YajamaheSugandhim Pushti-VardhanamUrvarukamiva BandhananMrityor Mukshiya Maamritat॥
The meaning of the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra:
- Om: The primordial sound representing the essence of the universe.
- Tryambakam: The three-eyed Lord (referring to Lord Shiva).
- Yajamahe: We worship or meditate upon.
- Sugandhim: Fragrant, having a sweet aroma.
- Pushti-Vardhanam: Nourisher, bestower of prosperity and growth.
- Urvarukam: Cucumber-like or ripe fruit, symbolizing the cycle of birth and death.
- Iva: Like, as though.
- Bandhanan: Bound or tied.
- Mrityor: From death.
- Mukshiya: Liberates or grants liberation.
- Ma: Not.
- Amritat: Immortality, the nectar of eternal bliss.
The Mahamrityunjaya Mantra is one of the most potent and revered Vedic mantras in Hinduism. Also known as the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the destroyer and regenerator aspect of the Supreme Being. This mantra is chanted for protection, longevity, and overcoming the fear of death.
In essence, the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra is a prayer seeking Lord Shiva's blessings and protection to conquer the fear of death and attain liberation from the cycle of birth and death. Chanting this mantra is believed to have healing properties and bestow good health, well-being, and spiritual growth.
Devotees often recite this mantra during physical or mental distress, illness, or life-threatening situations. It is considered a powerful mantra for healing and inner transformation and a significant part of various religious ceremonies and spiritual practices in Hinduism.