Bhasma, or sacred ash, holds a deeply symbolic and revered place in the worship of Lord Shiva. It represents purity, detachment, and the impermanence of life. Applying or offering Bhasma during Shiv Puja is believed to please Mahadev, who is known to favor natural and symbolic offerings over materialistic ones. In the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga temple in Ujjain, Bhasma is an integral part of the famous Bhasma Aarti. Below, we explore how you can prepare this sacred ash at home using traditional methods.
Table of Contents
What is Bhasma?
The word “Bhasma” is derived from two Sanskrit roots:
- “Bh” (भ): Symbolizing destruction, indicating the end of impurities.
- “Sma” (स्म): Representing remembrance, symbolizing eternal devotion to the divine.
Bhasma signifies the transient nature of the physical body and serves as a reminder of the soul’s eternal connection with the Supreme. It is also referred to as vibhuti or protective ash, and applying it during worship is a mark of surrender to Lord Shiva.
Materials Needed to Make Bhasma at Home
Making Bhasma requires pure and sanctified ingredients. According to scriptures, the following 13 items are ideal for preparing the ash:
- Cow dung cakes (Gobar ke kande)
- Wood from sacred trees:
- Bael (Aegle marmelos)
- Peepal (Ficus religiosa)
- Shami (Prosopis cineraria)
- Palash (Butea monosperma)
- Banyan (Ficus benghalensis)
- Amalta (Cassia fistula)
- Ber (Indian jujube)
- Neem bark
- Cashew nuts
- Large almonds
- Pure cow ghee
- Triphala powder
These items are considered sacred and symbolize purification, devotion, and spiritual energy.
Step-by-Step Guide to Make Bhasma
1. Preparation
- Choose a clean and pure space, preferably in a sanctified area of your home or near a temple.
- Ensure all materials are gathered and arranged neatly.
2. Burning Process
- Arrange the cow dung cakes in a circular or pyramid shape, ensuring proper ventilation for burning.
- Add the wood pieces from the listed sacred trees to the pile.
- Include neem bark, cashew nuts, and almonds in the mixture.
- Light the pile using camphor or dried leaves and allow it to burn completely while reciting the mantra:
“Om Aghorebhyo Atha Ghorebhyo Ghora Ghoratarebhyah Sarvatah Sarva Sarvebhyo Namaste Astu Rudra-Rupebhyah.”
3. Collection of Ash
- Once the fire has extinguished and the materials have turned into ash, carefully collect the remains.
- Sift the ash to separate the fine, white portion, which is considered the sacred Bhasma.
4. Sanctification of Bhasma
- Sprinkle the ash with Gangajal (holy water) and chant Shiva mantras, such as the Panchakshara mantra, “Om Namah Shivaya.”
- Offer a small portion of the prepared Bhasma to a Shiva Lingam or sacred fire for further sanctification.
How to Use Bhasma for Shiv Puja
Application on the Forehead
- Draw three horizontal lines (Tripundra) on the forehead with the ash, symbolizing Shiva’s three powers: creation, preservation, and destruction.
- Apply the Tripundra to your chest, arms, and other parts of the body, signifying purification and surrender.
Offering to Lord Shiva
- During Shiv Puja, sprinkle Bhasma on the Shiva Lingam as a symbolic offering.
- Recite the Panchakshara mantra, “Om Namah Shivaya,” while making the offering.
Spiritual Benefits of Using Bhasma
- Pleasing Lord Shiva: Mahadev is deeply pleased by offerings of Bhasma, granting his blessings and, as per belief, even divine visions.
- Detachment and Purification: The ash reminds devotees of life’s transient nature, encouraging detachment from material possessions.
- Spiritual Protection: Bhasma is considered a shield against negative energies and impurities, bringing peace and positivity.
- Fulfillment of Desires: Devotees believe that offering and applying Bhasma with devotion fulfills their wishes.
Additional Rituals for Bhasma
- After applying Bhasma, sit before the Shiva Lingam and chant the Panchakshara mantra at least 108 times or 1100 times for enhanced spiritual connection.
- Performing the ritual with a pure heart and unwavering devotion increases the chances of receiving Lord Shiva’s blessings.
Making Bhasma at home is a profound act of devotion, allowing devotees to connect with Lord Shiva on a deeper level. By following these traditional methods and incorporating the ash into your worship, you can experience spiritual growth and the divine grace of Mahadev.
Jai MahaKaal !