Lord Shiva is hailed as the destroyer amongst the
trinity of Hindu gods. Known by many names like Rudra, Neelkantha,
Shankar, Bholenath , the Lord is believed to be the one who is
responsible for destruction of the world to create a new world and once
again begin the cycle of creation and pro creation. Shiva is one of the
unique gods who is both a symbol for ascetics as well as householders.
The mantras dedicated to the lord are a way of praying to him. Given
below are some of the Shiva mantras with their meanings.
II Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra II
Om Tryambakam yajamahe
Sugandhim pushti-vardhanam
Urvarukamiva bandhanan
Mrityor mukshiya mamritat
This is a very powerful chant dedicated to Lord Shiva. This mantra is
believed to be the death conquering mantra and is found in the Rig Veda.
The mantra is sometimes also referred to as the Mrita-Sanjivini mantra
as it has the power to restore life in a dying person. In this potent
mantra the lord is referred to as the three eyed god. It is a plea to
him to restore life in the dying body. Worshipping the lord will
liberate one from death just like the ripe cucumber is separated from
the binding stalk.
II Shiva Mantra II
"Mrutyunjayaaya Rudraaya
Neelakantaya Shambhave
Amriteshaaya Sarvaaya
Mahadevaaya Te Namaha"
O Lord Shiva you are the one who has conquered death and are
responsible for destruction of the Universe to let life again prevail on
earth. O lord you are Neelkantha as you have a blue throat. We pay
obeisance to you O lord with are hands folded in namaskar.