Bhasma-dharana

Bhasma-dharana

भस्मधारण, bhasmadhāraṇa

Ritual application of sacred ashes on the body – bhasma (also bhabhut, vibhuti).

The Bhasma-jabala Upanishad says:

“I am that Absolute Brahman only which, after being understood in its true aspect (as one with this Atman), entirely bums into ashes (Bhasma) the ignorance (illusion or Maya) of considering this universe to be existing (real) and separate from one's own Self, through the destructive fire of (Supreme) Knowledge!”

“fire is Bhasma, air is Bhasma, water is Bhasma, earth is Bhasma, ether is Bhasma, gods are Bhasma, Rishis are Bhasma, all this universe and existence are Bhasma; I prostrate to this sacred and purifying Bhasma which destroys all my sins.”

The sacred ashes are soaked in milk, different consistencies are added, such as camphor or kapoor (dry alcohol), etc., and when it is properly prepared, the yogi learns to apply it to his body.

The “Saurapurana” says:

“The bhasma is the energy of Agni and by besmearing bhasma on the body a person becomes powerful (vīryavān) and self-controlled. He becomes liberated from all sins and attains communion with Śiva (śivasāyujya)”.

In Nath Tradition, there is a particular bhabhut-diksha related to the application of holy ashes to the whole body.