How to Receive the Grace of Lord Dakshinamurthy?

Lord Dakshinamurthy is the Guru or teacher avatar of Lord Shiva, the first teacher to preach Vedic secrets, yoga sutras, and techniques for enlightenment. The name ‘Dakshinamurthy’ translates to ‘Dakshina,’ meaning South, and ‘Murthy,’ meaning Lord or Deity — the South-facing Lord. When Lord Shiva chose to impart His wisdom to humankind and seekers of knowledge, He faced South and initiated His disciples into the yogic path. He is revered as the Supreme Guru of ultimate well-being and, according to some Vedas, the Supreme God who will absorb the entire cosmos at the end of an aeon (kalpa). As the embodiment of wisdom, He destroys ego and ignorance, and His cosmic knowledge illuminates humankind.

Lord Dakshinamurthy is portrayed as a radiant yogi with a golden body, overflowing with wisdom. He is often depicted in deep meditation, with a halo around His head, a crescent moon on His crown of matted hair, sometimes with half-open eyes, and a serene, joyous smile. Seated under a banyan or fig tree (Ala Vruksha), His left leg is folded and placed over the right knee in the Virasana pose, adorned in tiger skin and Rudraksha ornaments. His right foot rests on Apasmara Purusha, a mythical demon representing ignorance and ego. With four arms, He holds a chin or yoga mudra, palm leaves, a damaru (small drum), and the flame of knowledge. Surrounded by yogis, sages, and disciples, He is in absolute harmony with Time and Space. It is said that the position of Jupiter in one's natal chart influences many aspects of life, such as marriage, career, academics, and destiny. Lord Dakshinamurthy is associated with the Vishuddhi (Throat) Chakra, which governs communication, self-realization, clarity, and self-esteem.

The powers of Lord Dakshinamurthy are mentioned in various Puranas and Vedic texts, including the Shiva Purana, Bhagavata Purana, Krishna Yajur Veda, and the Brahma Sutra Bhashyam. His blessings can aid us in becoming powerful educators, poets, bankers, business entrepreneurs, and even achieving honorary administrative roles. Worshiping Lord Dakshinamurthy is also believed to mitigate the adverse effects of an unfavorable Jupiter placement.

How to Worship Lord Dakshinamurthy

You can worship Lord Dakshinamurthy on Thursdays (Guruvar) or during the Guru Hora on any day. Pournami (full moon day) is also ideal for offering special prayers. Light a ghee or simple oil lamp for the Lord and chant the following mantras:

Om Hreem Dakshinamurthaye Swahaa
or
Om Namo Bhagavathe Dakshinamurthaye
Mahyam Medhaam Pradnyaam Prayaccha Swaha

Meaning:
"Hail the Lord, the abundant source of knowledge. I bow down to His divinity, seeking His glorious ‘Medhaa’ — knowledge, and ‘Pradnyaa’ — wisdom."

Some devotees also offer a garland made of soaked chickpeas (channa) during their prayers.

Benefits of Worshiping Lord Dakshinamurthy

  • Attain unparalleled success in academics and career.
  • Remove obstacles, fear, ego, and ignorance.
  • Boost performance in competitive exams and competitions.
  • Sharpen focus and concentration for increased mental stability and strength.
  • Bring forth innate talents and skills.
  • Gain wisdom, yogic secrets, and profound knowledge.
  • Eliminate negative thoughts and distractions.
  • Ease challenges in both marital and professional life.
  • Attract fortune in choosing business partners and life partners.
  • Enhance overall quality of life and foster spiritual growth.

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