Significance of Bhairava
Synonyms: Bhairavi, Aghora, Rudra, Shiva, Lord shiva, Dandapani, Mahakala
In Dutch: Bhairava; In German: Bhairava; In Finnish: Bhairava; In Spanish: 叠丑补颈谤补惫谩
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Bhairava'
Bhairava in Buddhism is interpreted as a deity linked to a conjuration created by srong btsan, signifying his enduring presence and significance within the Buddhist tradition.
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) A deity associated with a conjuration authored by srong btsan, which exists even today.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Bhairava'
Bhairava in Hinduism embodies fierce aspects of Shiva associated with destruction, protection, and transformation. Revered in various practices and texts, he serves as a guardian deity, ensuring safety, guiding rituals, and representing divine strength and vigilance.
From: Garuda Purana
(1) A group of fierce manifestations of Shiva that are honored in the worship rituals.[2] (2) A form of Shiva that is invoked to counteract the effects of poison and hostile planetary influences.[3] (3) A significant deity whom the votary should meditate upon alongside Siddhas and Garuda during incantation practices.[4]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) A form of Shiva often associated with certain Tantric practices and techniques.[5]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) A form of Shiva, whose legends and hymns are incorporated into the Kurma Purana, including the defeat of Andhakasura.[6]
From: Brihaddharma Purana (abridged)
(1) A powerful divine figure with three eyes and four hands, symbolizing vigilance and strength.[7]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) A deity associated with death and destruction, symbolizing the atmosphere of the cemetery.[8] (2) A form assumed by Vegavati during her struggle with her brother Manasavega, showcasing her magical powers.[9] (3) Deity who interacts with the goddess Narayani and experiences the events taking place around Candrasvamin.[10] (4) A deity associated with destruction and protection, part of the hierarchy of gods encountered by Suryaprabha.[11] (5) A mighty deity whose image Mrigankadatta worships in the cemetery of Mahakala.[12]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) He is also known as Bhairava, indicating a significant spiritual or divine identity associated with power and transformation.[13] (2) One of the ragas performed by certain singers in the context.[14] (3) A type of fierce, supernatural being or deity in Hindu tradition.[15]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) A form of deity defined in Tantrik texts, representing aspects of purification and acceptance of certain rituals.[16]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 1: Initiation, Mercury and Laboratory
(1) Terrible spirits that threaten to remove the inherent potencies of the laboratory items if the purification is not performed.[17]
The concept of Bhairava in local and regional sources
Bhairava, derived from Sanskrit, signifies a devotee of Shiva, embodying fearsome qualities. This term underscores the intense devotion and multifaceted nature of religious followers within the context of Shiva worship.
From: Sanskrit Words In Southeast Asian Languages
(1) This Sanskrit term refers to a follower of Shiva, often associated with frightening aspects, as indicated in the text, denoting a religious follower.[18]