Mahamrityunjay Mantra: Lyrics, Meaming & Benefits

In a world where stress and anxiety are commonplace, there are hundreds of options given to function better. This might cause a great deal of confusion as to what to start with and you may end up doing nothing.

So, if you need a single method to overcome stress with guaranteed benefits, try chanting of Mahamrityunjay mantra which serves as a powerful tool for mental relaxation and emotional stability.

Originating from the Vedas, this mantra is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its healing and rejuvenating powers, thus being a part of Shiva meditation. I

n this blog, we delve deep into the mantra's origins, its profound meaning, the benefits it offers, and the correct way to chant the sacred Om tryambakam shloka.

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The origin and significance

The Mahamrityunjay mantra comes from ancient Vedic texts. This prayer has been handed down for thousands of years.

The mantra honors Shiva, the protector and transformer. In Hindu beliefs, Shiva stands for the balance of life. He represents creation, preservation, and destruction – the rhythm of life.

"Om tryambakam yajamahe" calls on Shiva with his three eyes. The third eye shows his wisdom. When you chant, you connect with the energy flowing through everything.

This prayer is more than words. Many who chant it feel joined to something bigger than themselves. It reminds us that while bodies don't last, souls are eternal.

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Historical origin

The mantra first appears in the Rigveda (7.59.12), one of the oldest sacred texts. It's also in the Yajurveda and several Upanishads.

Hindu stories say sage Markandeya first received this mantra when facing early death. By chanting with faith, he overcame death.

Why peopel chant it

People chant for:

• Healing
• Protection
• Overcoming fear of death
• Breaking harmful habits
• Peace of mind
• Spiritual growth

This mantra is used during illness, life changes, or when facing fears. Many believe it brings health, long life, and removes fear of death.

The Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra and Its Lyrics

The Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra in Sanskrit is as follows:

"ॐ त्र्यम्बकं यजामहे

सुगन्धिं पुष्टिवर्धनम् ।

उर्वारुकमिव बन्धनान्

मृत्योर्मुक्षीय मामृतात् ॥"

The transliteration for those not versed in Sanskrit is:

"Om tryambakam yajamahe sugandhim pushtivardhanam |

Urvarukamiva bandhanan mrityor mukshiya maamritat ||"

This mantra is a prayer to Lord Shiva, seeking his protection and asking for liberation from the cycle of death and rebirth.

Also read: Natraja: The Dance of Lord Shiva's Cosmic Energy

Maha Mrityunjaya mantra meaning

The Mahamrityunjay Mantra is a powerful prayer. It honors the divine, shows deep respect, and asks for spiritual freedom. It sees the divine as one who feeds us, gives us wisdom, and frees us from the cycle of birth and death. This prayer asks for health, spiritual growth, and final freedom.

For greater clarification, here's meaning of Mrityunjaya Mantra in English​:

Om tryambakam yajamahe

• "Om": The first sound, standing for the universe and highest truth. It's the sound of creation.
• "Tryambakam": Means "the three-eyed one," referring to Lord Shiva. His third eye shows wisdom beyond normal sight.
• "Yajamahe": This word means "we worship" or "we honor."

This line is a prayer showing respect to Lord Shiva, seeking his wisdom and presence.

Sugandhim pushtivardhanam

• "Sugandhim": Means "fragrant" or "sweet-smelling." It shows Lord Shiva as the source of all good smells, standing for purity.
• "Pushtivardhanam": "Pushti" means food or growth, and "vardhanam" means one who helps grow. Together, it means the one who feeds us and helps us grow.

This part praises Lord Shiva as the feeder and keeper of life, the source of all life and strength in the world. Explore some Shiva mantras for positive energy and sekf confidence.

Urvarukamiva bandhanan mrityor mukshiya maamritat

"Urvarukamiva": "Urvarukam" means cucumber, and "iva" means "like." It compares freedom to how a ripe cucumber easily falls from its vine.

"Bandhanan": Means "from ties" or "from things that hold us."

"Mrityor": From "mrityu," meaning "death."

"Mukshiya": Means "may you free."

"Maamritat": "Maa" means "not," and "amritat" comes from "amrita," the drink of endless life.

This line asks for freedom from worldly ties, like a cucumber falling from its vine when ripe. It stands for the soul breaking free from the cycle of death and rebirth.

Meaning of Maha Mrityunjay mantra: It asks Lord Shiva for safety from early death and for the gift of endless life, not in a real way, but as a symbol for spiritual freedom and seeing the truth.

Also read: The Kaal Bhairav Mantra to Melt Your Anxiety in Seconds

Maha mrityunjaya mantra benefits

The miracles of the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra are well-documented, with many practitioners reporting experiences of profound peace, healing, and even life-saving occurrences.

Promotes longevity: The mantra believed to rejuvenate the body and extend the lifespan of those who chant it regularly.

Wards off calamities: As a protective shield, it helps in safeguarding you against unforeseen accidents and disasters.

Mental clarity and focus: Regular chanting of the Mahamrityunjay mantra can lead to reduced stress, better concentration and mental clarity.

Emotional healing: The mantra has a soothing effect on the mind, brining in peace and reducing symptoms of anxiety.

Physical healing: Many believe that the mantra can bolster the immune system and can aid in recovering from illnesses.

Spiritual awakening: The Mahamrityunjay Mantra aids in the awakening of higher consciousness and deepens your connection to the divine.

Reduction of negative influences: The mantra is believed to cleanse the aura and reduce the negative energies around you when you're chanting.

Cultivation of positive vibes: It brings about a sense of joy, positivity, and well-being.

Life-saving experiences: Practitioners often report miraculous escapes from critical situations after chanting the mantra.

Enhances intuition: Mahamrityunjay mantra helps in making more aligned and intuitive decisions in life.

Creates harmony in relationships: The peaceful energy of the mantra fosters understanding, empathy, and harmony with others.

Aids in overcoming fears: The mantra is known for its power to conquer fears, especially the fear of death.

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The practice of Mahamrityunjay Jaap

The practice of Mahamrityunjay Jaap is a deeply spiritual exercise that involves more than just reciting the Mahamrityunjay Mantra lyrics. It's a form of meditation, much more than mere repetition; it's a journey into the depths of one's soul.

Preparation and setting

Find a quiet, clean spot where no one will bother you.

Sit in a way that feels good, best if facing East or North.

Know about the best direction to meditate.

Pronunciation and rhythm

Pronounce each part of the mantra clearly and in rhythm: "Om try-am-ba-kam ya-ja-ma-he su-gan-dhim pu-sh-ti-var-dha-nam".

Understanding the meaning

Reflect on the meaning of each word.

"Om tryambakam yajamahe sugandhim pushtivardhanam" means we worship the three-eyed one (Shiva) who smells sweet and helps all living things grow.

Focused mind

Clear your mind of distractions and focus solely on the lyrics of Maha Mrityunjaya mantra.

Chant with sincerity and devotion, letting the mantra resonate within.

Use of mala (Prayer beads)

Use a mala with 108 beads. Hold it in your right hand, and use your thumb to count each bead as you chant.

Repetition

Chanting 108 times is considered sacred in Hinduism, symbolizing the universe's completeness.

Breathing technique

Coordinate your breathing with the Om Tryambakam Yajamahe chant – inhale deeply before starting a repetition and exhale as you chant.

Closing the chant

After completing the chant, sit quietly for a few minutes, absorbing the vibrations and peace.

Offer gratitude and gently transition back to your routine.

Regular practice

A daily spiritual practice enhances the mantra's positive impact on your mind and body.

Respect and reverence

Learn what "Om Tryambakam Yajamahe Sugandhim Pushtivardhanam" means.

Don't chant when you're not pure (like after drinking alcohol or eating meat).

Also read: 9 Buddhist mantras for different life concerns

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the meaning of the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra in English?

The Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is known as the "Great Death-Conquering Mantra." It is believed to provide protection, healing, and liberation from suffering.

Mantra:

"Om Tryambakam Yajamahe Sugandhim Pushtivardhanam |

Urvarukamiva Bandhanan Mrityor Mukshiya Maamritat ||"

Meaning:

"We worship the three-eyed Lord (Shiva), who is fragrant and nourishes all beings. May He free us from the bondage of death, just as a ripe cucumber detaches from its vine—granting us liberation and immortality."

This mantra symbolizes the victory over death, suffering, and ignorance, guiding one towards spiritual enlightenment.

Can we chant the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra daily?

Yes, you can chant the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra daily. It is recommended for:

• Good health and healing (both physical and mental)
• Protection from negative energies
• Overcoming fear and anxiety
• Spiritual growth and inner peace

For the best results, it is advised to chant the mantra 108 times daily, preferably in the morning or during Brahma Muhurta (pre-dawn hours).

Can ladies chant the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra?

Yes, ladies can chant the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra without any restrictions. Unlike certain Vedic mantras that have gender-based recitation rules, this mantra is open to everyone, regardless of gender, age, or background.

Women can chant it during any phase of life, including pregnancy, to seek divine protection and well-being.

What is the text of Om Tryambakam Yajamahe in Sanskrit?

The Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra in Sanskrit is written as follows:

ॐ त्र्यम्बकं यजामहे सुगन्धिं पुष्टिवर्धनम् ।

उर्वारुकमिव बन्धनान् मृत्योर्मुक्षीय माऽमृतात् ॥

What is the miracle of the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra?

The Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra is considered miraculous due to its ability to bring healing, protection, and spiritual elevation. Some of the widely believed benefits include:

1. Healing powers – Chanting this mantra is believed to aid in recovery from diseases, promote longevity, and boost immunity.
2. Protection from accidents and misfortunes – Many people recite it before traveling or during challenging times for divine safeguarding.
3. Relief from fear and anxiety – The vibrations of the mantra calm the mind and help overcome fear, especially the fear of death.

Read next: Kaal Bhairav Mantra: Chanting for Shiva's angry avatar