Vibhuti

In Hinduism, ''vibhuti'' ( sa, विभूति, vibhūti), also called ''bhasma'' or ''thiruneeru'', is sacred ash made of burnt dried wood, burnt cow dung and/or cremated bodies used in Agamic rituals. Hindu devotees apply ''vibhuti'' traditionally as three horizontal lines across the forehead and other parts of the body to honour Shiva. ''Vibhuti'' smeared across the forehead to the end of both eyebrows is called ''tripundra''.

According to the ''Shiva Purana'', the particles of ash which cling to the skin when ''tripundra'' is applied are to be considered to be individual lingams. The scriptures further state that ''bhasma'' purifies the soul and elevates the devotee of Shiva, and that works done without wearing ''bhasma'' are fruitless. There are various methods for the application of the ashes, according to the ''Shiva Purana'', and various mantras to be recited during application.

Other uses

Another meaning of ''vibhuti'' is a 'glorious form', in contrast with avatar, a reincarnation of Brahman.

Vaishnava theology describes a ''vibhuti'' as 'incarnation of power', a temporary occasional manifestation such as when holy men are infused with divine virtues and qualities are infused.

Sri Aurobindo mentions a ''vibhuti'' as "the hero of a race's struggle towards divine achievement, the hero in the Carlylean sense of heroism, a power of God in man."

See also

* Bindi
* Kumkum
* Rudraksha
* Tilaka

References

Further reading

*Dictionary of Hindu Lore and Legend () by Anna Dallapiccola

External links

Vibhuti in Lingayat religion

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Yoga concepts
Objects used in Hindu worship