Sahasranama position 11 of the 1,000 names

Bhudharaya

भूधराय

Bhūdharāya

What Bhudharaya means

Bhudharaya is name 11 in the Kalabhairava Sahasranama, the 1,000-name devotional text to Kalabhairava. Salutations To The one who supports the Earth.

Also spelled

  • Bhudhara
  • Source transliteration: BHUUDHARAAYA

Sanskrit names travel into English in several romanizations. This page keeps the common spelling, the IAST form, and the source transliteration together so the same name is discoverable under each spelling readers use.

Meaning and elaboration

Meaning: Salutations To The one who supports the Earth.

Elaboration

The name Bhūdhara (Bhūdhāra) is a compound of two Sanskrit words: Bhū (or Bhūmi), meaning "Earth," and Dhara, meaning "bearer," "supporter," or "one who holds."

Supporter of the Earth In a cosmic sense, Bhūdhara refers to the primordial power that sustains the entire planet Earth. This isn't merely a physical act but a metaphysical one, implying the divine force responsible for the order, gravity, and stability of the terrestrial realm.

Lord of Stability and Foundation As the one who supports the Earth, Kalabhairava embodies the principle of firm foundation, steadfastness, and grounding. He is the ultimate anchor in the universe, ensuring that creation does not unravel. This stability extends beyond physical sustenance, representing the moral and cosmic laws that uphold existence.

Embodiment of Firmness This name emphasizes Kalabhairava's unshakeable nature and his role as the unwavering bedrock of all existence. His support is not passive; it is an active, dynamic force that prevents chaos and maintains the structure of the world. Devotees seeking stability, security, or a strong foundation for their endeavors might invoke him as Bhūdhara.

Metaphorical Interpretation On a more subtle level, "supporting the Earth" can also symbolize supporting the human body (which is made of earthly elements) and the life within it. Thus, he is also the supporter of individual existence, providing the necessary strength and courage to navigate life's challenges.

-

Text and sources

The name list follows the Kalabhairava Sahasranama as compiled for this project. The English meaning and elaboration are interpretive notes for devotional study, not a translation of a single critical edition.

Read the editorial method and source notes →

About the author · Contact and corrections · Privacy policy