Rudrabhishek (रुद्राभिषेक)

Rudrabhishek is Abhishek of Rudra. Rudrabhishek refers to the ritual bath of the Shiv Lingam. It is one of the most significant and popular ceremonies to please Lord Shiva and is seen as the greatest spiritual puja in all the Vedic scriptures. Performing this puja bestows one with health, wealth and happiness and offers protection against enemies, negativity, and evil.

The term ‘Rudra’ is used amply in the Vedas. Rudra means tempest or a violent storm. Rudra focuses on the destructive nature of Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva is both gentle and aggressive. He is both forgiving and merciless. He is everything. He is the beginning and he himself is the end. This is how his devotees perceive him.

The name Rudra is associated with 11 Rudras which were created by Lord Shiva namely:

Kapaali, Pingala, Bhima, Virupaksha, Vilohitaa, Ajesha, Shavasana, Shasta, Shambu, Chanda and, Dhruva.

Some philosophical and spiritual experts believe that Lord Shiva is called Rudra because of the Rudra Tandav dance. It is believed that a robust, fearless and enrage Shiva performs the Rudra Tandav dance in cremation grounds. He is unstoppable and furious.

Rudrabhishek puja is paramount. It is extremely important as a ritual. It is considered to be one of the finest, purest and compelling ritual in Hinduism. Lord Shiva, in the Rudrabhishek puja, is worshipped by giving him a sacred bath along with flowers and the necessary materials required in this puja.

There are broadly 7 types of Rudrabhishek:

Bhasm Abhishek: It is considered highly effective for eliminating accumulated sins and negative karmas from previous and current births.

Dahi Abhishek: This helps a childless couple to have a child.

Dudh Abhishek: For longevity.

Ghee Abhishek: This prevents any form of illness or physical problems from falling on the devotee.

Jal Abhishek: For Prosperity and fulfillment one’s desires.

Panchamrit Abhishek: Panchamrit is blend of 5 different elements (Amrutam) namely milk, curd, jaggery, honey, and ghee. These 5 elements together form the panchamrit. They are offered to seek blessings for wealth and prosperity.

Shahad Abhishek: Shahad meaning honey. For freedom from all of life’s troubles and misfortunes.

Rudrabhishek is an extremely powerful puja. It is performed to seek blessings and good health from God. Devotees offer Rudrabhishek to please Lord Shiva and seek his love care, protection, and blessings.