But his story begins before his birth.Ĭhildless, the forest-dwelling sage Mrikandu and his wife, Marudvati, undertook a long penance, hoping to earn merit and the boon of a child. Markandeya is also acclaimed for his vision of the cosmic deluge, and in the Mahabharata he is an honored guest at the forest encampment of the heroic Pandava brothers.

His text is remembered especially for its account of the glory of the Divine Mother. Great personages appear in these tales, among them the sage Markandeya, whose teachings are found in the Markandeya Purana. The scriptures of ancient India are filled with stories, myths, and legends in which philosophy is entwined with devotion.

In this article, spiritual teacher and author Rolf Sovik unveils one of yoga’s most powerful, nourishing mantras. Hailed by the sages as the heart of the Vedas, the maha mrityunjaya mantra can help you tune into the healing force that is always at work within you, supporting your growth, lifting you up in times of trouble, and reminding you of the higher aim of life.

Maha mrityunjaya mantra meaning