This is a beautiful and powerful mantra dedicated to Lord Shiva, seeking his forgiveness and blessings. It’s often used for cleansing and removing negativity.

Mantra is recited to seek forgiveness from Lord Shiva for any sins or wrongdoings, whether committed knowingly or unknowingly. It acknowledges that mistakes can be made through actions, words, thoughts, or even the senses, and it implores Shiva, the ocean of compassion, to grant pardon and bestow his grace. The mantra is a sincere prayer for inner purification and liberation from the cycle of karma.

Mantra Meaning Breakdown

  • Karacharana kritam Vaa: Actions performed by the hands and feet. This refers to physical actions.
  • Kaayajam Karmjam Vaa: Born from the body, or actions resulting from past deeds (karma). This covers actions that arise from our physical nature and the consequences of past actions.
  • Shravana nayanajam Vaa: Born from the ears and eyes. This pertains to sins committed through hearing and seeing—engaging with harmful or negative sensory input.
  • Maanasam Vaa Paraadham: Offenses committed by the mind. This refers to negative thoughts, intentions, and emotions.
  • Vihitam Vihitam Vaa: Whether prescribed or prohibited. This acknowledges that sins can be committed both by doing what is forbidden and by not doing what is required.
  • Sarvame Tat Kshamasva: All this, please forgive. A sincere plea for forgiveness for all transgressions.
  • Jay Jay Karunaabdhe: Victory to you, O Ocean of Compassion. A glorification of Shiva’s merciful nature.
  • Shree Mahadeva Shambho: O Auspicious, Great God, Shambho (a name for Shiva, the bestower of happiness). An invocation of Shiva’s benevolent and powerful presence.

Full Meaning

This mantra is a profound prayer for forgiveness and liberation. It acknowledges that as human beings, we are prone to making mistakes, whether consciously or unconsciously. These mistakes can manifest through our actions, words, thoughts, and even through what we choose to see and hear. The mantra recognizes that our past actions (karma) can influence our present and that we may commit wrongs unintentionally due to our inherent nature.

By reciting this mantra, we humbly surrender to Lord Shiva, the embodiment of compassion and purity, seeking his forgiveness for all our transgressions, past and present. We acknowledge his supreme power and benevolence, recognizing him as the “Ocean of Compassion” who can cleanse us of our impurities and guide us towards spiritual growth. The mantra is a plea for inner transformation and liberation from the cycle of negativity, leading us towards peace, happiness, and spiritual elevation.

Benefits

The regular and sincere chanting of this mantra is believed to offer numerous benefits:

  • Removal of Negativity: The mantra is said to purify the mind, body, and spirit, removing negative energy, thoughts, and emotions.
  • Forgiveness of Sins: It helps in seeking forgiveness for past wrongdoings, lessening the karmic burden and promoting inner peace.
  • Inner Cleansing: The mantra facilitates a deep inner cleansing, promoting mental clarity, emotional balance, and spiritual growth.
  • Protection: It is believed to create a protective shield around the devotee, safeguarding them from negativity and harm.
  • Cultivation of Compassion: By invoking Shiva’s compassionate nature, the mantra helps cultivate compassion and empathy within the individual.
  • Spiritual Progress: Regular chanting is said to aid in spiritual progress, fostering a deeper connection with the divine and leading towards self-realization.
  • Peace and Harmony: The mantra promotes inner peace, harmony, and a sense of well-being.
  • Relief from Suffering: It is believed to alleviate suffering, both physical and mental, by invoking Shiva’s healing energies.
  • Enhanced Focus: Regular chanting can improve concentration and mental focus.
  • Promotes Humility: The mantra fosters a sense of humility and surrender, acknowledging our imperfections and seeking divine grace.