|| Budha Kavacham ||
In Vedic Astrology, Budha (Mercury) is the prince among planets, governing our intellect, speech, and nervous system. The Budha Kavacham, found in the Brahma Vaivarta Purana, is a specialized "armor" that protects these vital aspects of our lives. It is a highly effective remedy for those experiencing difficulties with communication, skin-related health issues, or friction with relatives and friends.
By chanting this Kavacham, you invoke the protective energy of Mercury to guard your cognitive faculties and social standing. Whether you are a student seeking better concentration or a professional aiming for effective communication, these verses help align your energy with the beneficial vibrations of the cosmos.
Viniyoga (Ritual Intention)
Asya shrii-budha-kavacha-stotra-mantrasya kashyapa rishih,
Anushtup chhandah, budho devataa, budha-priityartham jape viniyogah |
Context: For this Budha Kavacham, Sage Kashyapa is the seer, Anushtup is the meter, and the Planet Mercury (Budha) is the deity. It is recited to earn the grace and favor of Mercury.
The Sacred Armor (Transliteration & Meaning)
[Image showing body parts protected by Budha Kavacham vibrations onlinejyotish]
Budhastu pustaka-dharah kunkumasya samadyutih |
Piitaambara-dharah paatu piita-maalya-anulepanah || 1 ||
1. Visualization: May Mercury, who holds a sacred book, who shines with the luster of saffron, and who wears yellow robes and garlands, protect me.
Katim cha paatu me saumyah shiro-desham budhas-tathaa |
Netre jñaanamayah paatu shrotre paatu nishaapriyah || 2 ||
Ghraanam gandhapriyah paatu jihvaam vidyaaprado mama |
Kantham paatu vidhoh putro bhujau pustaka-bhuushanah || 3 ||
2-3. Protection: May the gentle one protect my waist and Mercury protect my head. May the embodiment of knowledge protect my eyes and the beloved of the night protect my ears. May the lover of fragrance protect my nose and the giver of wisdom protect my tongue. May the son of the Moon protect my neck and the one adorned with books protect my arms.
Vakshah paatu varaangash-cha hridayam rohinii-sutah |
Naabhim paatu sura-araadhyo madhyam paatu khageshvarah || 4 ||
Jaanunii rauhine-yashcha paatu janghe-akhilapradah |
Paadau me bodhanah paatu paatu saumyo-akhilam vapuh || 5 ||
4-5. Completion: May the auspicious one protect my chest and the son of Rohini protect my heart. May the one worshipped by the gods protect my navel. May the son of Rohini protect my knees and shanks. May the lord of wisdom protect my feet, and may the gentle one protect my entire body.
Spiritual & Physical Benefits of Reciting Budha Kavacham
- Communication & Logic: Enhances the ability to articulate thoughts and improves analytical skills.
- Social Harmony: Traditionally used as a remedy for those facing misunderstandings with relatives and friends.
- Health: Mercury governs the skin and nerves. This prayer is used to seek protection from skin-related ailments and neurological distress.
- Success in Education: Ideal for students to gain "Vidya" (Knowledge) and better concentration.
- Planetary Relief: Mitigates the negative effects of a weak or afflicted Mercury in the horoscope.