Sahasranama position 859 of the 1,000 names

Surabhaye

सुरभये

Surabhaye

What Surabhaye means

Surabhaye is name 859 in the Kalabhairava Sahasranama, the 1,000-name devotional text to Kalabhairava. Salutations To The one who is fragrant, charming, and the celestial wish-fulfilling cow (Surabhi).

Also spelled

  • Source transliteration: SURABHAYE

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 is fragrant, charming, and the celestial wish-fulfilling cow (Surabhi).

Elaboration

The name Surabhaye (Surabhi, in the nominative case) is rich with multiple layers of meaning, encompassing fragrance, charm, celestial entities, and abundance, all attributed to Kalabhairava.

Fragrant and Charming The primary meaning of Surabhi is "fragrant," "sweet-smelling," or "charming." This refers to Kalabhairava's spiritual aura, which is pure, auspicious, and draws devotees towards him. When Bhairava is described as fragrant, it signifies that his presence purifies the environment and the hearts of those who worship him, radiating an essence of divine sanctity and wisdom. It also implies a captivating spiritual beauty and grace that transcends his fierce appearance, drawing seekers to his ultimate truth.

The Wish-Fulfilling Cow (Kamadhenu) "Surabhi" is also a specific name for Kamadhenu, the celestial, wish-fulfilling cow, also known as Savala. This aspect denotes Kalabhairava as the ultimate bestower of all desires, wishes, and abundance, both material and spiritual. Just as Kamadhenu grants all needs and wishes to her devotees, Bhairava, as Surabhi, is the provider of all prosperity, well-being, and ultimately, liberation (moksha). This implies that he is the source of all nourishment and sustenance for the cosmos and for individual souls.

Auspiciousness and Purity The term "Surabhi" also connotes auspiciousness and purity. Kalabhairava embodies these qualities, even in his fierce aspect, because his actions are always for the ultimate good and the establishment of dharma. He cleanses negativity and removes obstacles, paving the way for auspicious outcomes for his sincere devotees.

Holiness and Divinity Being "Surabhi" also connects him to the sacredness associated with cows in Hindu tradition, symbolizing divinity, motherhood, and selfless giving. This emphasizes Kalabhairava's role not just as a punisher or destroyer, but also as a benevolent, nurturing force that provides and protects.

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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 →

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