Shaiva Upanishads (A Critical Study)
by Arpita Chakraborty | 2013 | 33,902 words
This page relates ‘Bhasma–the power generator’ of the study on the Shaiva Upanishads in English, comparing them with other texts dealing with the Shiva cult (besides the Agamas and Puranas). The Upaniṣads are ancient philosophical and theological treatises. Out of the 108 Upanishads mentioned in the Muktikopanishad, 15 are classified as Saiva-Upanisads.
23. Bhasma–the power generator
It is said that this holy ash can give rise to all sorts of wealth. In front of it are Vasus, on its right are Rudras, on its back are Ādityas (suns), on its left are Viśve Devas, in the centre are Brahmā, Viṣṇu and Śiva, and on its sides are the Sun and the Moon.
The Ṛg Veda Mantra tells about it (holy ash) as follows,
“What is the use of Vedas to a person who does not understand that thing, in whose ether like perennial form lives all devas and the worlds? Any one who understands that great matter are the people who have attained that which should be attained.”
This Bhasma is said to give the Jñāna. Even for Hari and Śaṅkara. By wearing Bhasma, Hari, who was black became white. In this context Hari says whoever wears Bhasma will become my devotee.[1]
Footnotes and references:
[1]:
Ibid VI. 16.