Karpur Gauram Karunavtaaram: Meaning, Lyrics & Benefits

(The Ancient Shiva Yajur Mantra)

The Karpur Gauram Karunavtaaram is one of the most famous and powerful mantras dedicated to Lord Shiva. Often chanted during the Mangal Aarti (at the conclusion of a Puja), this ancient verse from the Yajurveda is not just a prayer—it is a vivid description of Shiva’s divine form and nature.

Whether you are a devotee seeking peace or someone exploring Vedic spirituality, understanding the Karpur Gauram meaning can deepen your connection with the Divine.

Karpur Gauram Karunavataram Mantra (Lyrics)

Here is the full Shiva Yajur Mantra in Sanskrit and English transliteration.

Karpur Gauram Meaning (Word-by-Word)

To truly appreciate the power of this shloka, let us break down the Karpur Gauram mantra meaning word by word:

• 🪔 Karpūragauraṁ (कर्पूरगौरं):
  “Karpur” means Camphor, and “Gauram” means White. Lord Shiva is described as pure, white, and shining like camphor. This symbolizes absolute purity and spiritual light.
• ❤️ Karuṇāvatāraṁ (करुणावतारं):
  “Karuna” means Compassion, and “Avataram” means Embodiment. Shiva is the very physical form of mercy and compassion for all beings.
• 🌍 Sansārsāram (संसारसारम्):
  The one who is the Essence (Saaram) of the entire Universe (Sansar). Despite the world being an illusion (Maya), Shiva is the only truth holding it together.
• 🐍 Bhujagendrahāram (भुजगेन्द्रहारम्):
  “Bhujagendra” means the King of Serpents (Vasuki), and “Haram” means Garland. Shiva wears the serpent king around his neck, symbolizing his control over death and ego.
• 🌸 Sadāvasantaṁ Hṛdayāravinde (सदावसन्तं हृदयारविन्दे):
  Who Always (Sada) Resides (Vasantam) in the Lotus (Aravinde) of the Heart (Hridaya). He lives within the hearts of his devotees.
• 🙏 Bhavaṁ Bhavānīsahitaṁ Namāmi (भवं भवानीसहितं नमामि):
  I bow (Namami) to Bhavam (Lord Shiva) along with Bhavani (Goddess Parvati/Shakti). This acknowledges the union of Shiva (Consciousness) and Shakti (Energy).

Karpur Gauram Mantra Meaning in Hindi (हिंदी अर्थ)

भारत में भक्त अक्सर इस मंत्र का हिंदी अनुवाद जानना चाहते हैं। यहाँ इसका सरल अर्थ है:

Why is Karpur Gauram Chanted During Aarti?

You might wonder, why is this specific mantra chanted at the end of every Mangal Aarti?

According to Vedic traditions, camphor (Karpur) holds a special significance. When camphor burns, it leaves no residue—it disappears completely into the air, emitting a pleasant fragrance. This symbolizes the burning of our ego (Ahamkara). By chanting Karpur Gauram, devotees pray to Shiva to dissolve their ego completely so they can merge with the divine, just like the camphor merges with the fire.

5 Miraculous Benefits of Chanting This Mantra

Chanting the Shiva Yajur Mantra is said to bring immense peace and protection. Here are the key benefits:

• 🛡️ Protection from Negativity: Shiva is the destroyer of evil. This mantra acts as a shield against negative energies and fear of death (Mrityu Bhaya).
• 🧠 Mental Clarity & Focus: Regular chanting calms the mind, making it excellent for students and professionals seeking concentration.
• ⚖️ Balance of Energy: By bowing to Shiva and Bhavani (Shakti) together, you invoke a balance of masculine and feminine energies within yourself.
• ✨ Instant Grace: Since Shiva is Karunavataram (Compassion), he is easily pleased. A sincere chant can invoke his blessings instantly.
• 🕊️ Spiritual Liberation: It reminds us that the world is fleeting, and the only truth is the Divine residing in our hearts.

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