Maha Mrityunjaya: The Mantra of Immortality

The Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra

Original Text: Om Tryambakam Yajamahe, Sugandhim Pushtivardhanam, Urvarukamiva Bandhanan, Mrityor Mukshiya Maamritat.

Transliteration: Oṃ Tryambakaṃ Yajāmahe, Sugandhiṃ Puṣṭivardhanam, Urvārukamiva Bandhanān, Mṛtyor Mukṣīya Māmṛtāt.

Breakdown

• Om: The primordial sound.
• Tryambakam: The three-eyed one (Shiva).
• Yajamahe: We worship.
• Sugandhim: Fragrant, possessing good qualities.
• Pushtivardhanam: Nourisher, increasing vitality.
• Urvarukamiva: Like a cucumber.
• Bandhanan: From bondage.
• Mrityor: From death.
• Mukshiya: May I be liberated.
• Maamritat: To immortality.

The Mantra and Its Meaning

We worship the three-eyed one (Shiva), who is fragrant and who nourishes all beings. Just as a cucumber is easily separated from its vine, may he liberate us from death for the sake of immortality.

Associated Deity

Lord Shiva, the destroyer and transformer.

Origin Story

This mantra is found in the Rigveda and is associated with Rishi Markandeya, who was granted immortality through its power.

How and When to Chant

Chant during times of illness, fear, or when seeking protection from death. Can be chanted daily, especially in the morning.

Benefits

• Protection from illness and accidents.
• Longevity and vitality.
• Spiritual liberation and freedom from fear.
• Healing and rejuvenation.