Ashta Bhairavs (“Eight Bhairavs”) are eight manifestations of God Kaal Bhairav, a ferocious aspect of “Lord Shiva”. who is considered the supreme ruler of time of the universe and the chief form of Lord Bhairav. They guard and controls the eight directions.

What do they Represent:-

The eight Bhairavs represent eight different elements in which five elements represented by Lord Bhairav are sky, air, fire, water and earth and the other three beings are sun, moon and atma (the soul). Each of the eight Bhairavs are different in appearance, have different weapons, have different vahanas and they bless their devotees with eight types of wealth representing Ashta Lakshmis.

How to Worship Lord Bhairav:-

It is generally believed that by worshipping Lord Bhairav, devotees can attain prosperity, success and good progeny, prevent premature death and finds solution to their debts and liabilities. The name Bhairav itself is replete with deep meaning. The first syllable ‘Bhai’ means fear and also lustrous light. It is said to endow one with material wealth. ‘Rav’ means echo. While ‘Ra’ casts off negativity and restricted consciousness, ‘Va’ keeps creating opportunities. In Shiva temples, regular woshipping starts with Lord Surya and ends with Lord Bhairav. The best time to worship Lord Bhairav is believed to be in the midnight of Friday.

How the Idols of Lord Bhairav depicts his Personality:-

Bhairavs idols are usually situated facing north or south direction. In his idols, Lord Bhairav appears in a standing position with four hands. He holds damaru & pasam (noose) on his left hand and trine & skull on his right hand. Sometimes, Lord Bhairav is depicted with more hands. He is depicted as semi or fully naked. He is accompanied by his Vahana, a dog. The dog (shwan) is not just a means of transport but is a participant in Bhairav’s ferocious activities. Lord Bhairav is shown with protruding teeth and ferocious looks in his idol and wears garland made of red flowers.