As SWAHA International joined the nation in a National Day of Prayer for Universal Protection on May 23, 2021, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic’s effect on our country and the world, a key feature of the invocations was the collective performance of virtual Maha Mrityunjai jaap and havan by spiritual leaders and devotees. A significant and powerful mantra, the Maha Mrityunjai mantra is also known as the death-conquering mantra that can protect the reciter from harm, illness and untimely death: mrityu means ‘death’ and jai means victory. It is a divine armour and should be chanted every day.
The Maha Mrityunjai mantra is dedicated to Bhagavan Shiva, one of whose many names is Mrityunjai. The Shiva Maha Puraana states that it is one of the five mantras given by Lord Shiva at the time of creation. It is also found in the Rig Veda where it is attributed to Sage Vasistha. The Maha Mrityunjai mantra is also known as the Rudra mantra, referring to the furious aspect of Shiva; the Trayambakam mantra, alluding to Shiva’s three eyes (the third spiritual eye located at the ajna chakra on the forehead between the eyebrows); and the Mrita Sanjivani mantra because of its life-restoring qualities. The Maha Mrityunjai mantra is considered by the sages as the heart of the Vedas. Along with the Gayatri mantra, it holds the highest place among the many mantras for contemplation and meditation.
Whenever matters of health, vitality or freedom from fear associated with death arise, this mantra naturally surfaces as a remedy. Proper recitation of the Maha Mrityunjai Mantra is believed to rejuvenate the body, bestow health, wealth, long life, peace, prosperity and contentment. The mantra can be recited when taking medications, as it prepares the body and mind to make the best use of the medicine. It is believed that it has the power to bestow longevity and cure disease, even those diagnosed as incurable by doctors. This mantra can be used whenever any restorative process is undertaken. It is also said that those in the healing professions benefit from reciting this mantra regularly. Through it, they can draw from an infinite reserve of energy and prevent fatigue while opening a channel of healing within themselves from which life can be nourished.
When chanted, the Maha Mrityunjai Mantra generates divine vibrations that ward off all negativities and creates a powerful, protective armour that shields the devotee from misfortune. It can remove distress and fulfil one’s legitimate desires. Difficult situations can be transcended by regular recitation of this mantra. If chanted a minimum of 11 times before going to sleep, it ensures restful sleep and positive dreams. On the spiritual level, constant meditation on the Maha Mrityunjai Mantra enhances one’s spiritual development, connecting people to their own inner divinity. Whether used to enhance one’s life or to prevent illness and the fear of death, this mantra is ultimately a means of self realisation. The consciousness it awakens is none other than the deep, infinite Consciousness of the Indweller Himself.
MAHAA MRITYUNJAI MANTRA
Om Trayambakam Yajaamahay
Sugandhim Pushti Vardhanam
Uravaarukam Iva Bandhanaan
Mrityor Moksheeya Maamritaat.
Om Namah Shivaya.
Translation:
I humbly bow to the Three-Eyed Lord of Auspiciousness, whose sweet fragrance is ever-present and who sustains the world. O Lord, please protect me from untimely death and release me from the bondage of this never-ending cycle of birth and death. I bow to you, O Lord Shiva.
