Śrī Kāmeśvarakavacaṃ (श्रीकामेश्वरकवचं)

Prologue:- The Divine Mother Lalita Devi is praised as the desire-fulfilling Kāmeśvarī and is said to reside with Her consort Lord Kāmeśvara, an aspect of Lord Śiva, in the bindu (dot) of the mystical yantra mandala called Śrī cakra. The dot has no dimensions and hence the description of the Divine Mother and Divine Father is beyond our comprehension. Those initiated into the Śrī Mahāṣoḍaśī mantra, after having completed sufficient japa and/or receiving spiritual enlightenment or elevation, may be given the mantra of Śrī Kāmeśvara, as per certain Śrīvidya traditions highlighted in the work called Nityotsava. This kavacam gives fructification to the mantra and protection to all the Śrīvidya devotees. There is absolutely nothing that cannot be achieved through this kavacam once it fructifies. It is to be noted however, that there is also a great danger to the uninitiated and to those revealing its secrets to the undeserving.

om̐ śrīgurave śivāyom̐ namaḥ ।

śrīdevyai sadā-suphala-dāyinyai namaḥ ।

ॐ श्रीगुरवे शिवायों नमः ।

श्रीदेव्यै सदासुफलदायिन्यै नमः ।

 Salutations to the guru and the Divine Father Lord Śiva. May we receive their blessings at all times!

Salutations to the Divine Mother Śrīdevi, and may all our tasks become successful and fruitful at all times!

Śrīdevy-uvāca (श्रीदेव्युवाच) :-

bhagavan karuṇām-bhodhe śāstr-āmbhonidhi-pāraga ।

dāsī parama-bhaktāsmi varaṃ dātum-ihārhasi ॥ 1 ॥

भगवन् करुणाम्भोधे शास्त्राम्भोनिधिपारग ।

दासी परमभक्तास्मि वरं दातुमिहार्हसि ॥ १ ॥

The Divine Mother Devi (Śakti) spoke – Oh Lord! You are an ocean of compassion and knowledge. Your knowledge of the divine scriptures is unparalleled, and only you can provide the means of crossing the boundaries of knowledge and lead one towards liberation. I serve you with utmost devotion at all times. I plead upon you to shower your grace upon me and make me eligible to gain the sacred knowledge that I seek.

Śrībhairava uvāca (श्रीभैरव उवाच) :-

kathayasva maheśāni kamito varam-icchasi ।

yat-kiñcin-manas-īṣṭaṃ syāt-tad-dātuṃ te kṣamo'smyaham ॥ 2 ॥

कथयस्व महेशानि कमितो वरमिच्छसि ।

यत्किञ्चिन्मनसीष्टं स्यात्तद्दातुं ते क्षमोऽस्म्यहम् ॥ २ ॥

Lord Bhairava (Śiva) spoke – Oh dear Maheśāni (Devi), Please ask what is it that you would like to know from me and what is it that you seek so dearly? I shall grant any wish that you cherish. You are the most deserving, and forgive me if I have ever denied anything to you.

śrīdevyuvāca (श्रीदेव्युवाच) :-

kāmeśvarasya deveśa kavacaṃ deva-durlabham ।

śīghraṃ me dayayā brūhi yadyahaṃ preyasī tava ॥ 3 ॥

कामेश्वरस्य देवेश कवचं देवदुर्लभम् ।

शीघ्रं मे दयया ब्रूहि यद्यहं प्रेयसी तव ॥ ३ ॥

Goddess Devi spoke – Oh Lord! I would like to know the secrets of the Śrī Kāmeśvara Kavacam, which is hard to procure even for the celestial devas. Please narrate it to me without any delay, as I long to hear and immerse myself in its spiritual ecstasy.

Śrībhairava-uvāca (श्रीभैरवौवाच) :-

śṛṇuṣva parameśāni kavacaṃ manmukhoditam ।

mahākāmeśvarasyāsya na deyaṃ paramādbhutam ॥ 4 ॥

शृणुष्व परमेशानि कवचं मन्मुखोदितम् ।

महाकामेश्वरस्यास्य न देयं परमाद्भुतम् ॥ ४ ॥

Lord Bhairava spoke – Oh Dear Devi, please listen attentively. Śrī Kāmeśvara Kavacam is very pleasing to describe as well as chant. Let me reveal this most amazing Kavacam and enthrall you with the glory of Lord Mahākāmeśvara.

yaṃ dhṛtvā yaṃ paṭhitvā ca yaṃ śrutvā kavacottamam ।

trailokyādhi-patir-bhūtvā sukhito'smi maheśvari ॥ 5 ॥

यं धृत्वा यं पठित्वा च यं श्रुत्वा कवचोत्तमम् ।

त्रैलोक्याधिपतिर्भूत्वा सुखितोऽस्मि महेश्वरि ॥ ५ ॥

One who speaks of its virtues or simply recites, or even listens to this kavacam regularly, will surely attain the virtues and command over all the three realms and all triads. In addition, all comforts will be bestowed upon the person.

tadevaṃ varṇay-iṣyāmi tava prītyā varānane ।

rahasyaṃ paramaṃ tattvaṃ na dātavyaṃ durātmane ॥ 6 ॥

तदेवं वर्णयिष्यामि तव प्रीत्या वरानने ।

रहस्यं परमं तत्त्वं न दातव्यं दुरात्मने ॥ ६ ॥

Divine words spring forth in my mind that will please you immensely, oh my beautiful dear Devi.

Please do note that this is a great secret that must be kept away from wrong-doers and never revealed to them.

viniyogaḥ (विनियोगः) :-

(Purpose of reciting the kavaca)

asya śrī kāmeśvara kavaca mantrasya ।

śrīdakṣiṇāmūrti ṛṣiḥ ।

paṅkti chandaḥ ।

śrīkāmeśvaro devatā ।

śrīm̐ bījaṃ ।

hrīm̐ śaktiḥ ।

klīm̐ kīlakam ।

caturvarga-phala-prāptyarthaṃ kavaca-pāṭhe viniyogaḥ ।

अस्यश्रीकामेश्वरकवचमन्त्रस्य श्रीदक्षिणामूर्ति ऋषिः ।

पङ्क्ति छन्दः ।

श्रीकामेश्वरो देवता ।

श्रीँ बीजं ।

ह्रीँ शक्तिः ।

क्लीँ कीलकम् ।

चतुर्वर्गफलप्राप्त्यर्थं कवचपाठे विनियोगः ।

Meaning:- This prayer/mantra japa is to invoke Śrī Kāmeśvara and perform His Kavaca mantra japa to obtain His complete grace in all aspects, and to obtain the four puruṣārthas: dharma (justice, law), artha (wealth), kāma (desires) and mokṣa (liberation). The sage (ṛṣiḥ) is Śrī Dakṣiṇāmūrti, the meter (chandas) for the mantra is Paṅkti and the deity is Śrī Kāmeśvara, the seed (bījaṃ) is śrīm̐, the power or śakti is hrīm̐. The key (kīlaka) to unlock the mantra is klīm̐.

ṛṣyādi nyāsa ( ऋष्यादि न्यास ) :-

atha dhyānam (अथ ध्यानम्) :-

(meditation verse)

udyac-candra-samāna-dīptim-amṛtānandaika-hetuṃ paraṃ

cid-rūpaṃ bhuvanaika-sṛṣṭi-pralayod-bhūtaika-rakṣā-param ।

koṭī candra-galat-sudhādbhuta-tanuṃ hārādi-bhūṣojjvalaṃ

śulaṃ khaḍga-varau tathābhaya-karaṃ kāmeśvaraṃ bhāvaye ॥

उद्यच्चन्द्रसमानदीप्तिममृतानन्दैकहेतुं परं

चिद्रूपं भुवनैकसृष्टिप्रलयोद्भूतैकरक्षापरम् ।

कोटी चन्द्रगलत्सुधाद्भुततनुं हारादिभूषोज्ज्वलं

शुलं खड्गवरौ तथाभयकरं कामेश्वरं भावये ॥

Let us meditate upon Lord Kāmeśvara, Who has the appearance and incandescence of the rising full moon with blissful appearance. His appearance immediately oozes the cerebral nectar (amṛta) causing immense joy and happiness. He is the embodied super-consciousness and pure joy. He is the Creator, Sustainer and the Destroyer of the entire manifested Creation. His entire slender form basks in the brilliant nectar inducing moonlight. He is decorated by a garland of snakes indicating the awakening of Kuṇḍalini and is brilliant in appearance. He is holding a trident representing all the triads, a sword to slash all attachments, displaying a varada mudra to grant all boons to the seekers and the fear-allaying abhaya mudra to assure devotees of His everlasting protection.

Kavacamārambham (कवचमारम्भम्) :-

(start of the kavaca stotra)

aim̐ kam̐ kāmeśvaraḥ pātu klīm̐ śivo me lalāṭakam ।

saum̐ me karṇau ca kāmeśaḥ tāraṃ me locana-dvayam ॥ 7 ॥

ऐँ कँ कामेश्वरः पातु क्लीँ शिवो मे ललाटकम् ।

सौँ मे कर्णौ च कामेशः तारं मे लोचनद्वयम् ॥ ७ ॥

The knowledge bestowing bīja aim̐, combined with the Kālarātri Mātṛkā bīja (seed) mantra kam̐ representing victory, desire (kāma), wealth (artha), justice (dharma), as well as the triple śaktis of icchā (desire), jñāna (knowledge) and kriyā (action), along with Lord Kāmeśvara wielding the desire-fulfilling bīja (seed) mantra klīm̐, combined with the purifying power of the Divine Father Lord Śiva, together protect the forehead. The liberation yielding bīja (seed) mantra saum̐ protects the ears and Lord Kāmeśa, the Divine Father protects both the eyes.

The immediate activation of the ājñā cakra is indicated. The amplification of our spiritual quest in gaining the right knowledge through the ears and eyes is also guaranteed.

śrīm̐ gam̐ ḍaum̐ me mahākālo hrīm̐ nāsāṃ candracūḍakaḥ ।

ham̐ me oṣṭau tripureśaḥ sam̐ me dantau ca bhairavaḥ ॥ 8 ॥

श्रीँ गँ डौँ मे महाकालो ह्रीँ नासां चन्द्रचूडकः ।

हँ मे ओष्टौ त्रिपुरेशः सँ मे दन्तौ च भैरवः ॥ ८ ॥

The bīja (seed) mantra śrīm̐, grants prosperity, wealth and general fructification.

The bīja (seed) mantra gam̐, is the Gāyatrī Mātṛkā representing clarity of the discerning knowledge, direct vision and eternal wisdom, masked by delusion.

The bīja (seed) mantra ḍaum̐, signifies control over all the five senses, removal of all poisonous and harmful elements in the body and the expulsion of negativity from within us.

The above seed mantras wielded by Lord Mahākāla the timeless One, along with the power packed bīja (seed) mantra hrīm̐, combined with the protection of Lord Candracūḍa, the One with the moon crescent on his forehead, together guard the nostrils. Breath synchronization and calmness of mind is achieved, leading to less thoughts and more concentration.

The bīja (seed) mantra ham̐, is the Haṃsavatī Devi Mātṛkā bīja representing the True Self and attaining liberation and merger with IT. This seed mantra wielded by the Lord of all triads Tripureśa, together protect the lips. One gradually becomes only interested in singing the praise of the Lord, mantra japa etc.

The bīja (seed) mantra sam̐, is the Sarasvatī Devi Mātṛkā bīja representing arts, knowledge and wisdom and is also the cause of all Creation. She grants success in all accomplishments and fulfills life’s very purpose of liberation. This seed mantra wielded by the horrific Lord Bhairava, together protect the teeth. One loses the appetite and avarice for food and yearns only for liberation.

kṣam̐ me jihvāṃ pātu devo mahā-kāmeśvaraḥ paraḥ ।

sammohanaṃ sadā pātu mahā-vaṭuka-bhairavaḥ ॥ 9 ॥

क्षँ मे जिह्वां पातु देवो महाकामेश्वरः परः ।

सम्मोहनं सदा पातु महावटुकभैरवः ॥ ९ ॥

The Kṣamāvatī Devi Mātṛkā bīja (seed) mantra kṣam̐, represents the dissolution of all karmas through the Divine grace and pardon. She leads and grants us liberation. This bīja wielded by the liberation granting Lord Mahā-kāmeśvara together protect the tongue. One is completely mesmerized by the power and protection of the eternally youthful Lord Mahā-vaṭuka-bhairava.

yam̐ me skandhau sadā pātu mahā-mṛtyuñjayas-tathā ।

ūm̐ me bhujau sadā pātu śrīm̐ devas-tripurāntakaḥ ॥ 10 ॥

यँ मे स्कन्धौ सदा पातु महामृत्युञ्जयस्तथा ।

ऊँ मे भुजौ सदा पातु श्रीँ देवस्त्रिपुरान्तकः ॥ १० ॥

The Yaśasvinī Mātṛkā bīja (seed) mantra yam̐, represents immense glory and the awakening of the spiritual glow – Ājñā cakra. She heralds the flood of knowledge, light and the realization of a complete new self within us. This bīja wielded by the death conquering liberation giver Lord Mahā-mṛtyuñjaya, together protect the shoulders and grant us the power to bear any type of burden that may befall us.

ūm̐ is the bīja of the excellence and power granting Ūrdhvakeśī Devī combined with the triad eliminating Lord Tripurāntaka, together protect the arms. One becomes capable of accomplishing any task.

sam̐ me hastau trilokeśaḥ ham̐ nakhān pātu sundaraḥ ।

kṣam̐ dakṣaḥ pātu śāmeśo mam̐ kukṣiṃ kṛttikā varaḥ ॥ 11 ॥

सँ मे हस्तौ त्रिलोकेशः हँ नखान् पातु सुन्दरः ।

क्षँ दक्षः पातु शामेशो मँ कुक्षिं कृत्तिका वरः ॥ ११ ॥

The Sarasvatī Devi Mātṛkā bīja (seed) mantra sam̐ represents arts, knowledge and wisdom and is also the cause of all Creation. She grants success in all accomplishments and fulfills life’s very purpose of liberation. This bīja wielded by the Lord of all triads Trilokeśa, together protect the hands. One gets to obtain and employ all knowledge-granting avenues.

The bīja (seed) mantra ham̐, is the Haṃsavatī Devi Mātṛkā bīja representing the True Self and attaining liberation and merger with IT. This seed mantra wielded by the handsome Lord Sundara, together protect the nails. One gets to peel off all misunderstandings and unlearn what is not needed and channel in the true knowledge of liberation.

The Kṣamāvatī Devi Mātṛkā bīja (seed) mantra kṣam̐, represents the dissolution of all karmas through the Divine grace and pardon. She leads and grants us liberation. This bīja wielded by the destroyer Lord Śāmeśā, together enhance our will power and strength and guide us towards higher pursuits!

The Mahāmāyā bīja (seed) Mātṛkā mantra mam̐ signifies the great cosmic illusion and its secrets. She helps us realize out true inner self and leads us towards liberation. This bīja wielded by the consort of the knife edged ego slaying Goddess Kṛttikā, together protect the upper abdomen. One gets the ability to swallow all disappointments and take everything in his/her stride and be content.

lam̐ pārśvau pātu me bālā vam̐ nābhiṃ brahma-bhūṣakaḥ ।

ram̐ vastiṃ pātu me devo yam̐ pṛṣṭhaṃ viṣṇu-rūpakaḥ ॥ 12 ॥

लँ पार्श्वौ पातु मे बाला वँ नाभिं ब्रह्मभूषकः ।

रँ वस्तिं पातु मे देवो यँ पृष्ठं विष्णुरूपकः ॥ १२ ॥

The Lamboṣṭhī Devi Mātṛkā bīja (seed) mantra lam̐ represents great power of attraction and mesmerization. She also leads us to the non-dual state of knowing and being IT. This bīja wielded by the Divine Mother Bālā the Creator, together protect the sides of the body (trunk). One acquires an able body and a good frame.

The Varadā Devi Mātṛkā bīja (seed) mantra vam̐ represents wish fulfillment and auspicious, favorable outcomes of all endeavors. This bīja wielded by the power (śakti) that adorns the Lord of Creation Brahma, called Brahma-bhūṣakaḥ protects the navel. One acquires the courage to carry out difficult tasks. The Maṇipūra cakra is activated.

The Raktā Devi Mātṛkā bīja (seed) mantra ram̐ represents cleansing of the soul and depleting all negativities. She also generates a new zeal and drive in us, to accomplish higher spiritual pursuits leading us towards liberation. She provides vāk siddhi or the power to make words come true. This bīja wielded by the celestial devas protects the lower abdomen. Contentment and deep sense of satisfaction is experienced by the devotee.

The Yaśasvinī Mātṛkā bīja (seed) mantra yam̐, represents immense glory and the awakening of the spiritual glow – Ājñā cakra. She heralds the flood of knowledge, light and the realization of a complete new self within us. This bīja wielded by the omniscient Viṣṇu-rūpaka protects the back. One can be assured that no force will catch us off-guard and create hurdles towards our progress.

ūm̐ śiśnaṃ pātu viśveśaḥ amṛteśvara-bhairavaḥ ।

yam̐ meḍhre pātu me rudro ram̐ guhyaṃ guhyakeśvaraḥ ॥ 13 ॥

ऊँ शिश्नं पातु विश्वेशः अमृतेश्वरभैरवः ।

यँ मेढ्रे पातु मे रुद्रो रँ गुह्यं गुह्यकेश्वरः ॥ १३ ॥

ūm̐ is the bīja of the excellence and power granting Ūrdhvakeśī Devī combined with the omniscient Lord Viśveśa Amṛteśvara Bhairava, together protect the tail and the anal region. The activation of the Mūlādhāra cakra is assured.

The Yaśasvinī Mātṛkā bīja (seed) mantra yam̐, represents immense glory and the awakening of the spiritual glow – Ājñā cakra. She heralds the flood of knowledge, light and the realization of a complete new self within us. This bīja wielded by the Destroyer Lord Rudra, together protect the genitals. The activation of the Svādhiṣṭhāna cakra is assured.

The Raktā Devi Mātṛkā bīja (seed) mantra ram̐ represents cleansing of the soul and depleting all negativities. She also generates a new zeal and drive in us, to accomplish higher spiritual pursuits leading us towards liberation. She provides vāk siddhi or the power to make words come true. This bīja wielded by the secretive Lord Guhyakeśvara protects the entire genital area. The activation of the Mūlādhāra cakra is assured and the kindling of the Kuṇḍalini begins.

lam̐ kaṭiṃ pātu me nityaṃ śivaḥ parama-kāraṇaḥ ।

vam̐ ūrū tripur-ādhyakṣaḥ lam̐ jānū deva-pālakaḥ ॥ 14 ॥

लँ कटिं पातु मे नित्यं शिवः परमकारणः ।

वँ ऊरू त्रिपुराध्यक्षः लँ जानू देवपालकः ॥ १४ ॥

The Lamboṣṭhī Devi Mātṛkā bīja (seed) mantra lam̐ represents great power of attraction and mesmerization. She also leads us to the non-dual state of knowing and being IT. This bīja wielded by the Divine Father Lord Śiva, together protect the waist and hips. One acquires an able body and a good frame.

The Varadā Devi Mātṛkā bīja (seed) mantra vam̐ represents wish fulfillment and auspicious, favorable outcomes of all endeavors. This bīja wielded by the Lord of all triads Tripur-ādhyakṣa protects the thighs. The bīja lam̐, once again gets utilized by the ruler of all celestials Lord Deva-pālaka (Indra), to protect the knees.

mam̐ jaṅghe pātu mahimā yam̐ gulphau sūrya-rūpakaḥ ।

śrīm̐ jaṭharaṃ haraḥ pātu hrīm̐ manohara-sundaraḥ ॥ 15 ॥

मँ जङ्घे पातु महिमा यँ गुल्फौ सूर्यरूपकः ।

श्रीँ जठरं हरः पातु ह्रीँ मनोहरसुन्दरः ॥ १५ ॥

The Mahāmāyā bīja (seed) Mātṛkā mantra mam̐ signifies the great cosmic illusion and its secrets. She helps us realize our true inner self and leads us towards liberation. This bīja wielded by the mystic magical siddhi Mahimā, together protect the shanks (legs).

The Yaśasvinī Mātṛkā bīja (seed) mantra yam̐, represents immense glory and the awakening of the spiritual glow – Ājñā cakra. She heralds the flood of knowledge, light and the realization of a complete new self within us. This bīja wielded by the light emitting Lord Sūrya-rūpaka, together protect the ankles.

The fertility, prosperity and wealth bearing Lakṣmī bīja śrīm̐, combines with the karma removing Lord Hara, to protect the stomach. The power granting Śakti bīja hrīm̐ along with the immensely pleasing Lord Manohara Sundara, protect the entire mid region of the body.

om̐ buddhiṃ pātu me rudraḥ sauḥ rasaṃ dakṣajā-patiḥ ।

klīm̐ raktaṃ pātu me devo ūrdhvaṃ ca vahni-rūpa-dhṛk ॥ 16 ॥

ॐ बुद्धिं पातु मे रुद्रः सौः रसं दक्षजापतिः ।

क्लीँ रक्तं पातु मे देवो ऊर्ध्वं च वह्निरूपधृक् ॥ १६ ॥

The Praṇava Śabda Brahman om̐, which is cause of the manifestation of all sound syllables, protects the mind, along with the Destroyer Lord Rudra.

The liberation bīja sauḥ along with the consort of Sati - Dakṣajā-pati, together protect the bodily fluids.

The desire fulfilling bīja klīm̐ protects the blood with the assistance of all celestial devas. The upper part of the body itself is protected by the fiery Lord Vahni-rūpa-dhṛk.

aim̐ saum̐ sam̐ guhyakaḥ pātu meruḥ paśupatis-tathā ।

asthiṃ me girijā-nātho majjāṃ me nīla-kaṇṭhakaḥ ॥ 17 ॥

ऐँ सौँ सँ गुह्यकः पातु मेरुः पशुपतिस्तथा ।

अस्थिं मे गिरिजानाथो मज्जां मे नीलकण्ठकः ॥ १७ ॥

The knowledge bestowing bīja aim̐, the liberation generating bīja saum̐ combined with the Sarasvatī Devi Mātṛkā bīja (seed) mantra sam̐, which represents arts, knowledge and wisdom and is also the cause of all Creation as well as success in all accomplishments and in fulfilling life’s very purpose of liberation, together protect the private parts and the entire region surrounding the area. The finger joints are protected by the protector of all beings Lord Paśupati.

The bones are protected by the consort of the Divine Mother Girijā – Girijā-nātha. The bone marrow is protected by the blue throated Lord Nīla-kaṇṭhaka.

śukraṃ bhūteśvaraḥ pātu mūrdhānaṃ śaṅkaro'vatu ।

pādau śrīm̐ sundarīśāno devaḥ kālāntakaḥ prabhuḥ ॥ 18 ॥

शुक्रं भूतेश्वरः पातु मूर्धानं शङ्करोऽवतु ।

पादौ श्रीँ सुन्दरीशानो देवः कालान्तकः प्रभुः ॥ १८ ॥

The reproductive fluids in the body are protected by the Lord of all extra-dimensional ghostly Bhūtas – Bhūteśvara. The head is protected by Lord Śaṅkara. The feet are protected by the fertility, prosperity and wealth bestowing bīja śrīm̐ and also by the most handsome Lord Sundarīśa and the transformer of fate Lord Kālāntaka.

pādādi-śiraḥ-paryantam-aghoraḥ pātu sarvadā ।

śirasaḥ pāda-paryantaṃ sadyojāto mamāvatu ॥ 19 ॥

पादादिशिरःपर्यन्तमघोरः पातु सर्वदा ।

शिरसः पादपर्यन्तं सद्योजातो ममावतु ॥ १९ ॥

From the feet to the head, protection is offered by the purity personified Lord Aghora at all times. From the head to the toes, the protection is offered at all times by Lord Sadyojāta, the Lord of transformation and spiritual re-birth.

prauḍha-rūpaḥ sadā pātu svāhā me sakalaṃ vapuḥ ।

kāmeśvaraḥ prabhāte'vyān-madhyāhne kāla-bhairavaḥ ॥ 20 ॥

प्रौढरूपः सदा पातु स्वाहा मे सकलं वपुः ।

कामेश्वरः प्रभातेऽव्यान्मध्याह्ने कालभैरवः ॥ २० ॥

The mightiest and fully evolved Lord Prauḍha-rūpa and the oblation offering mantra svāhā, protect the body at all times. The desire fulfilling Lord Kāmeśvara prevails over the morning time. The afternoon timings are presided over by the fate changing Lord of time, Kāla-bhairava.

sāyaṃ pātu kuleśāno niśīthe niṣkaleśvaraḥ ।

ardharātre vāmadevo niśānte sumahodayaḥ ॥ 21 ॥

सायं पातु कुलेशानो निशीथे निष्कलेश्वरः ।

अर्धरात्रे वामदेवो निशान्ते सुमहोदयः ॥ २१ ॥

The evening times are presided over by the Lord of all clans Kuleśa. The night times are prevailed over by Lord Niṣkaleśvara, the one with no material desires. The midnight and the late night timings till day break are under the domain of Lord Vāmadeva, the desired One.

sarvadā sarvataḥ pātu aiṃ klīm̐ sauṃ bīja-rūpa-dhṛk ।

pūrve mām-asitāṅgo'vyāt dakṣiṇe ruru-bhairavaḥ ॥ 22 ॥

सर्वदा सर्वतः पातु ऐं क्लीँ सौं बीजरूपधृक् ।

पूर्वे मामसिताङ्गोऽव्यात् दक्षिणे रुरुभैरवः ॥ २२ ॥

Everything that there is and at all times, protection will be offered by the triad creating, sustaining and destroying mantra bījas aiṃ, klīm̐, and sauṃ. The Eastern direction is under the domain of the dark colored Lord Asitāṅga and the Southern direction is under the sway of the forceful and savage Lord Ruru-bhairava.

paścime pātu caṇḍeśo hy-uttare krodha-bhairavaḥ ।

aiśānyāṃ pātu conmattaḥ kapāleśas-tathāgnike ॥ 23 ॥

पश्चिमे पातु चण्डेशो ह्युत्तरे क्रोधभैरवः ।

ऐशान्यां पातु चोन्मत्तः कपालेशस्तथाग्निके ॥ २३ ॥

The Western direction is protected by the duality dissolving Lord Caṇḍeśa. The Northern direction is under the control of the terrific Lord Krodha Bhairava. The North Eastern direction is protected by the spiritually intoxicated Unmatta Bhairava. The South Eastern direction is protected by the ego erasing Lord Kapāleśa.

nairṛtyāṃ bhīṣaṇaḥ pātu vāyau saṃhārako'vatu ।

ūrdhvaṃ me kāla-rudraśca pātāle parameśvaraḥ ॥ 24 ॥

नैरृत्यां भीषणः पातु वायौ संहारकोऽवतु ।

ऊर्ध्वं मे कालरुद्रश्च पाताले परमेश्वरः ॥ २४ ॥

The South Western direction is protected by the formidable Lord Bhīṣaṇa. The North Western direction is under the sway of the destroyer Lord Saṃhāraka. The upward direction is protected by the Lord of time Kālarudra and the downward direction is under the domain of the supreme Parameśvara.

madhye sadāśivaḥ pātu tri-kūṭeśaḥ sadāvatu ।

daśa-dikṣu sadā pātu mahā-kāmeśvaro'vatu ॥ 25 ॥

मध्ये सदाशिवः पातु त्रिकूटेशः सदावतु ।

दशदिक्षु सदा पातु महाकामेश्वरोऽवतु ॥ २५ ॥

The center is protected by the everlasting Lord Sadāśiva. The triads such as the three realms, the physical, astral and causal bodies etc., are also protected at all times by Lord Sadāśiva. All the ten directions are once again strongly protected at all times, by the fulfiller of all desires Lord Mahā-kāmeśvara.

vismāritaṃ ca yat-sthānaṃ yat-sthānaṃ nāma-varjitam ।

tat-sarvaṃ pātu me devas-tripuraḥ-patir-īśvaraḥ ॥ 26 ॥

विस्मारितं च यत्स्थानं यत्स्थानं नामवर्जितम् ।

तत्सर्वं पातु मे देवस्त्रिपुरःपतिरीश्वरः ॥ २६ ॥

One who has lost his bearings and standing in the society, will gain back his/her name, fame and all that is lost will be restored by the grace of the Lord of all triads, Tripura-pati-īśvara.

gṛhe śarvaḥ sadā pātu bahiḥ pāyād-vṛṣadhvajaḥ ।

pathi tripura-sundaryaḥ pātu sarvatra sarvadā ॥ 27 ॥

गृहे शर्वः सदा पातु बहिः पायाद्वृषध्वजः ।

पथि त्रिपुरसुन्दर्यः पातु सर्वत्र सर्वदा ॥ २७ ॥

The entire household is always protected and one is also protected outside his/her house by the virtuous Lord Vṛṣadhvaja. All our possessions are protected by the consort of the Divine Mother Tripura-sundari (Lord Kāmeśvara) at all times.

Phalaśruti (फलश्रुति):-

(Benefits from reciting the kavacam)

raṇe raja-kule durge durbhikṣe śatru-saṃsadi ।

dyūte mārī-bhaye rāṣṭre viplave vādināṃ kule ॥ 28 ॥

रणे राजकुले दुर्गे दुर्भिक्षे शत्रुसंसदि ।

द्यूते मारीभये राष्ट्रे विप्लवे वादिनां कुले ॥ २८ ॥

The warriors are protected in the battlefield by the Divine Mother Durga. She will also inject severe distress and loss to the entire group of enemies and annihilate them. All challengers will be scared to death, revolutions within the country and arguments within the family and organizations will subside.   

kāmeśvaraḥ sadā pātu bhaya-sthāne ca sarvadā ।

ity-etat-kavacaṃ guhyaṃ triṣu lokeṣu durlabham ॥ 29 ॥

कामेश्वरः सदा पातु भयस्थाने च सर्वदा ।

इत्येतत्कवचं गुह्यं त्रिषु लोकेषु दुर्लभम् ॥ २९ ॥

Lord Kāmeśvara will offer protection at all times and remove our fear at all places and in all types of situations. This kavacam is very secretive and is very hard to obtain in all the three realms.

mūla-mantramayaṃ divyaṃ trilokī-sāram-uttamam ।

adātavyam-abhaktāya kavacaṃ guhyam-īśvari ॥ 30 ॥

मूलमन्त्रमयं दिव्यं त्रिलोकीसारमुत्तमम् ।

अदातव्यमभक्ताय कवचं गुह्यमीश्वरि ॥ ३० ॥

Oh Dear īśvari Devi, The root (mūla) mantra of Lord Kāmeśvara, is very sacred and is the gist of all triads and is supreme. One should not initiate non-believers into this secretive and most sacred kavacam.

adṛṣṭavyam-aśrotavyaṃ dīkṣā-hīnāya mantriṇe ।

para-dīkṣāya śiṣyāya putrāya śarajanmane ॥ 31 ॥

अदृष्टव्यमश्रोतव्यं दीक्षाहीनाय मन्त्रिणे ।

परदीक्षाय शिष्याय पुत्राय शरजन्मने ॥ ३१ ॥

This mantra kavacam is beyond the reach of observation and conception and cannot be described or narrated or listened to. There is also a requirement of initiation, which cannot be given away to those who do not deserve it. Only those who have attained higher levels of spiritual development and have the para-dīkṣa may recite this mantra. Only such devotees or children of such gurus who themselves have attained higher spiritual development such as the activation of all cakras in the body, may be given this mantra kavacam for recitation.

na dātavyaṃ na śrotavyam-ityājñāṃ māmakīṃ śṛṇu ।

paraṃ śrī-mahimānaṃ ca śṛṇu cāsya suvarmaṇaḥ ॥ 32 ॥

न दातव्यं न श्रोतव्यमित्याज्ञां मामकीं शृणु ।

परं श्रीमहिमानं च शृणु चास्य सुवर्मणः ॥ ३२ ॥

This is not something that can be given away or donated nor simply narrated as commanded or instructed for selfish purposes. Please listen, Oh Devi, this is a highly sacred and very effective armor that is highly coveted. The kavacam is wondrous and brings great benefits.

adīkṣito yadā mantrī vidyāṃ gṛdhnuḥ paṭhed-idam ।

su-śikṣita iti jñeyo māntrikaḥ sādhakottamaḥ ॥ 33 ॥

अदीक्षितो यदा मन्त्री विद्यां गृध्नुः पठेदिदम् ।

सुशिक्षित इति ज्ञेयो मान्त्रिकः साधकोत्तमः ॥ ३३ ॥

Without taking proper initiation (dīkṣa) and learning the secrets of this kavacam, if one hastily begins reciting, one will receive the deserved punishment and this needs to be noted and understood by all intelligent sādhakas (devotees).

guru-pūjāṃ vidhāyāsya vidhivat-prapaṭhet-tataḥ ।

kavacaṃ triḥ-sakṛd-vāpi yāvaj-jñānaṃ ca vā punaḥ ॥ 34 ॥

गुरुपूजां विधायास्य विधिवत्प्रपठेत्ततः ।

कवचं त्रिःसकृद्वापि यावज्ज्ञानं च वा पुनः ॥ ३४ ॥

One must pray to their gurus in the appropriate manner, following all the rituals on a regular basis. Doing so, the kavacam will instantly sow its benefits. One will gain the true knowledge that leads to liberation.

etac-chatārtham-āvartya trailokya-vijayī bhavet ।

yaḥ paṭhen-manasāntastu rātrau brāhme muhūrtake ॥ 35 ॥

एतच्छतार्थमावर्त्य त्रैलोक्यविजयी भवेत् ।

यः पठेन्मनसान्तस्तु रात्रौ ब्राह्मे मुहूर्तके ॥ ३५ ॥

One’s fate will completely turn around a hundred fold and he/she will be able to win and acquire anything in the three realms that he/she so desires. One should recite the kavacam in the mind with utmost concentration and faith, in the night time and a couple of hours just before the day break (Brāhma muhūrta).

pūjākāle niśīthe tu tasya hastasya siddhayaḥ ।

duḥsvapne bandhane ghore kāntāre sāgare bhaye ॥ 36 ॥

पूजाकाले निशीथे तु तस्य हस्तस्य सिद्धयः ।

दुःस्वप्ने बन्धने घोरे कान्तारे सागरे भये ॥ ३६ ॥

During the ritual pūjā time, at the night time before sleep, one must display the necessary hand gesture mudras to obtain success in removing bad dreams, repelling terrifying women/men, allaying all fears of drowning and ship wrecks in the oceans.

rajaḥ-sattva-tamo-rūpa-varma kāmeśvarasya tu ।

kāṅkṣante manasā yad-yat-tat-tat-prāpnoti sādhakaḥ ॥ 37 ॥

रजःसत्त्वतमोरूपवर्म कामेश्वरस्य तु ।

काङ्क्षन्ते मनसा यद्यत्तत्तत्प्राप्नोति साधकः ॥ ३७ ॥

Lord Kāmeśvara will grant us the armor to protect against Rajas (passion) and Tamas (Violent) guṇa (tendencies). The mind will also be silenced and controlled against lustful desires and the devotee (sādhaka) gains complete control over all his emotions and desires.

mahā-kavir-bhaven-māsāt-sarva-siddh-īśvaro bhavet ।

kuṅkumena likhitvā vai bhūrja-tvaci ravau dine ॥ 38 ॥

महाकविर्भवेन्मासात्सर्वसिद्धीश्वरो भवेत् ।

कुङ्कुमेन लिखित्वा वै भूर्जत्वचि रवौ दिने ॥ ३८ ॥

One can become a great poet and also achieve and gain all the magical siddhis (powers), if one were to write the kavacam with the kuṅkuma (red turmeric) powder on the bark of a birch tree (or on paper or any suitable object or device), every Sunday for the period of one month.

prātaḥkāle śubha-rkṣe ca svarṇasthaṃ dhārayed-yadi ।

śikhāyāṃ dakṣiṇe bāhau kaṇṭhe vā dhārayed-budhaḥ ।

yad-yad-iṣṭaṃ bhavet-tat-tat-sādhako labhate'cirāt ॥ 39 ॥

प्रातःकाले शुभर्क्षे च स्वर्णस्थं धारयेद्यदि ।

शिखायां दक्षिणे बाहौ कण्ठे वा धारयेद्बुधः ।

यद्यदिष्टं भवेत्तत्तत्साधको लभतेऽचिरात् ॥ ३९ ॥

During the morning time on an auspicious day and time, One can wear this kavacam engraved on a gold plate. The intelligent devotees can wear on the head, right shoulder or around the throat, as per their convenience and desire and instantly obtain success in all their undertakings.

yad-gṛhe vartate varma śrī-kāmeśvara-daivatam ।

vidyā-kīrtir-dhan-ārogyaṃ lakṣmīr-vṛddhirna saṃśayaḥ ॥ 40 ॥

यद्गृहे वर्तते वर्म श्रीकामेश्वरदैवतम् ।

विद्याकीर्तिर्धनारोग्यं लक्ष्मीर्वृद्धिर्न संशयः ॥ ४० ॥

There will be protection at home at all times by the immense grace of Lord Śrī Kāmeśvara. Education, fame, money, health and auspiciousness will take firm root and remain in the house of the devotee.

vinā baliṃ na saṃrakṣyaṃ kavacaṃ sādhakattamaiḥ ।

cedrakṣyaṃ tat-sutān dārānnāyur-bhakṣati yoginī ॥ 41 ॥

विना बलिं न संरक्ष्यं कवचं साधकत्तमैः ।

चेद्रक्ष्यं तत्सुतान् दारान्नायुर्भक्षति योगिनी ॥ ४१ ॥

Without the need for any sacrifices, the kavacam is still very effective and provides all types of protection at all times. The children are also protected from all types of fierce extra-dimensional entities from getting killed and eaten up. There shall be no dearth of food and the entire family will be blessed with long life.

baliṃ datvā paṭhed-varma dhārayen-mūrdhni sādhakaḥ ।

putravān dhanavān śrīmān nānā-vidyā-nidhir-bhavet ।

iha bhogān samaśnāti paratra mukti-bhāg-bhavet ॥ 42 ॥

बलिं दत्वा पठेद्वर्म धारयेन्मूर्ध्नि साधकः ।

पुत्रवान् धनवान् श्रीमान् नानाविद्यानिधिर्भवेत् ।

इह भोगान् समश्नाति परत्र मुक्तिभाग्भवेत् ॥ ४२ ॥

By offering sacrifices via performing the fire rituals, the kavacam worn on the head of the devotee (sādhaka), helps in begetting children, wealth, fame, all types of knowledge, prosperity and riches. One obtains all types of comforts and lives luxuriously with immense material happiness. Eventually, one will also obtain self-realization and liberation, following the rituals on a regular basis.

brahm-āstrādīni śastrāṇi tad-gātra-sparśanāt-tataḥ ।

nāśamāyāti sarvatra kavacasyāsya dhāraṇāt ॥ 43 ॥

ब्रह्मास्त्रादीनि शस्त्राणि तद्गात्रस्पर्शनात्ततः ।

नाशमायाति सर्वत्र कवचस्यास्य धारणात् ॥ ४३ ॥

The most powerful celestial weapons such as the Brahmāstra and any type of mystical spells will not even touch the body of the devotee ever. There shall be no ruin or harm to the devotee at any time, once it has been worn and/or regularly recited by the devotee.

mṛta-vatsā vāma-bāhau kavacasyāsya dhāraṇāt ।

bahvapatyā jīva-vatsā bhavatyeva na saṃśayaḥ ॥ 44 ॥

मृतवत्सा वामबाहौ कवचस्यास्य धारणात् ।

बह्वपत्या जीववत्सा भवत्येव न संशयः ॥ ४४ ॥

The kavacam can be worn on the left arm of the deceased family members. No harm shall befall the living family members and their welfare at all times is assured. There will be no untimely death.

raṇeṣṭatv-ācared-yuddhaṃ hatvā śatrūn jayaṃ labhet ।

jayaṃ kṛtvā gṛhaṃ devi sa prāśyati sukhī naraḥ ॥ 45 ॥

रणेष्टत्वाचरेद्युद्धं हत्वा शत्रून् जयं लभेत् ।

जयं कृत्वा गृहं देवि स प्राश्यति सुखी नरः ॥ ४५ ॥

Even when surrounded on all eight sides by enemy forces, one will be able to vanquish them and gain glorious victory. One will obtain all round happiness with his/her partner at home and live harmoniously for the rest of his/her lifetime.

mahā-bhaye mahā-ghore mahā-mārī-bhaye tathā ।

durbhikṣe śatru-saṅgrāme paṭhet-kavacam-ādarāt ।

sarvaṃ tat-praśamaṃ yāti kāmeśvara-prasādataḥ ॥ 46 ॥

महाभये महाघोरे महामारीभये तथा ।

दुर्भिक्षे शत्रुसङ्ग्रामे पठेत्कवचमादरात् ।

सर्वं तत्प्रशमं याति कामेश्वरप्रसादतः ॥ ४६ ॥

When facing great dangers, horrific situations and when death seems certain, with no respite from enemies, one should immediately recite the kavacam with utmost devotion. Lord Kāmeśvara will present Himself and put everything at rest and save the devotee from the difficult situation.

kavacasyāsya deveśi varṇituṃ naiva śakyate ।

mahimānaṃ mahādevi jihvā-koṭi-śatair-api ॥ 47 ॥

कवचस्यास्य देवेशि वर्णितुं नैव शक्यते ।

महिमानं महादेवि जिह्वाकोटिशतैरपि ॥ ४७ ॥

Oh Dear Devi, even a trillion tongues will not be able to describe the greatness and power of this kavacam that is so dear to you.

idaṃ kavacam-ajñātvā yo japeta manuṃ śive ।

sapta-lakṣa-prajaptāpi tasya vidyā na siddhyati ॥ 48 ॥

इदं कवचमज्ञात्वा यो जपेत मनुं शिवे ।

सप्तलक्षप्रजप्तापि तस्य विद्या न सिद्ध्यति ॥ ४८ ॥

One who is unaware of this kavacam will not gain siddhi (success) of Lord Śiva mantras, even after reciting seven hundred thousand times.

adātavyam-idaṃ varma mantra-garbhaṃ rahasyakam ।

avaktavyaṃ mahā-puṇyaṃ sarva-sārasvata-pradam ॥ 49 ॥

अदातव्यमिदं वर्म मन्त्रगर्भं रहस्यकम् ।

अवक्तव्यं महापुण्यं सर्वसारस्वतप्रदम् ॥ ४९ ॥

This mantra kavacam is a very secretive armor that can give birth to mantra fructification. Needless to say, one will obtain great merit and all types of knowledge and will be regarded highly amongst the learned.

adīkṣitāya no dadyāt kucailāya durātmane ।

na deyaṃ para-śiṣyebhyo'bhaktebhyo'pi viśeṣataḥ ॥ 50 ॥

अदीक्षिताय नो दद्यात् कुचैलाय दुरात्मने ।

न देयं परशिष्येभ्योऽभक्तेभ्योऽपि विशेषतः ॥ ५० ॥

This kavacam should not be given to the improperly dressed and to evil persons. Nor should it be given to anybody, who is not an exceptionally qualified and highly spiritual devotee.

śiṣyebhyo bhakti-yuktebhyaḥ pradeyaṃ bhāvanā-vaśāt ।

iti śrīdeva-deveśi varma kāmeśvarasya tu ।

guhyaṃ gopyatamaṃ gopyaṃ kathitaṃ tava bhaktitaḥ ॥ 51 ॥

शिष्येभ्यो भक्तियुक्तेभ्यः प्रदेयं भावनावशात् ।

इति श्रीदेवदेवेशि वर्म कामेश्वरस्य तु ।

गुह्यं गोप्यतमं गोप्यं कथितं तव भक्तितः ॥ ५१ ॥

Only devotees with utmost devotion and sincerity should be granted this kavacam that belongs to Śrī Kāmeśvara and is highly coveted by the celestial gods and goddesses. It is to be kept a great secret for this very purpose and not revealed to one and all, but only to the most deserving spiritually elevated persons.

ityeṣa paṭalo devi paramād-bhuta-kāraṇaḥ ।

kathito deva-deveśi tava bhakti-vaśānmayā ॥ 52 ॥

इत्येष पटलो देवि परमाद्भुतकारणः ।

कथितो देवदेवेशि तव भक्तिवशान्मया ॥ ५२ ॥

Oh Dear Devi, it is proclaimed and spoken of by the celestial devas and devis, as the most wondrous hymn capable of manifesting any desire and most powerful and magical in its power.

na vaktavyo na dātavyo dīkṣā-hīnāya pārvati ।

yathāvad-gopanīyo'sau siddhy-aṣṭaka-phalo mataḥ ॥ 53 ॥

न वक्तव्यो न दातव्यो दीक्षाहीनाय पार्वति ।

यथावद्गोपनीयोऽसौ सिद्ध्यष्टकफलो मतः ॥ ५३ ॥

Oh Dear Pārvati Devi, please do not speak of this wondrous hymn to the undeserving, nor should you bestow this to such people. Please do note that this kavacam is capable of bestowing all the eight magical and most coveted siddhi-s, within months.

yāvat-kālaṃ bhaved-guptas-tāvattu phala-dāyakaḥ ।

na ced-gupto bhaved-devi siddhi-hānir-bhaved-dhruvam ॥ 54 ॥

यावत्कालं भवेद्गुप्तस्तावत्तु फलदायकः ।

न चेद्गुप्तो भवेद्देवि सिद्धिहानिर्भवेद्ध्रुवम् ॥ ५४ ॥

In due course of time, one who keeps this secretive and recites the kavacam with sincere faith and devotion, will gain everything that is desired. If not kept secretive, oh Dear Devi, such a person is likely to lose all powers so gained and may also face loss of wealth and fame.

rahasyodghāṭanāy-āsmān-mahimā hīyatān-manoḥ ।

tasmāt-sarvatra goptavyaḥ sāyakaiḥ paṭalottamaḥ ।

yatheṣṭa-kāmadaśceha paratra mokṣadaḥ priye ॥ 55 ॥

रहस्योद्घाटनायास्मान्महिमा हीयतान्मनोः ।

तस्मात्सर्वत्र गोप्तव्यः सायकैः पटलोत्तमः ।

यथेष्टकामदश्चेह परत्र मोक्षदः प्रिये ॥ ५५ ॥

Oh Dear Devi, If the secrets of this kavacam are revealed, then the greatness and its mystic powers are soon lost and taken away from those undeserving people. It is therefore to be kept very secretive and only presented to the most deserving, to recite and gain its benefits. The sincere devotees will acquire all their cherished desires and ultimately gain liberation.

iti śrī-viśvasāra-tantre pārvatī-parameśvara-saṃvāde śrī-kāmeśvara-kavacaṃ sampūrṇam ॥

इति श्रीविश्वसारतन्त्रे पार्वतीपरमेश्वरसंवादे श्रीकामेश्वरकवचं सम्पूर्णम् ॥

(Thus ends the hymn called the Śrī Kāmeśvara Kavacaṃ, extracted from the Śrī Viśvasāra Tantra and sourced from the conversation between the Divine Mother Pārvatī and Lord Parameśvara).