Guru, also known as Brihaspati, is the preceptor of the devas (gods) and the ruling deity of the planet Jupiter. In Vedic astrology, Jupiter is considered the most benefic planet, bestowing wisdom, knowledge, fortune, progeny, and spiritual growth. The name 'Brihaspati' appears in the Rigveda (e.g., Rigveda 2.23.1) as the priest who inspires devotion and leads the sacrifice. He is also called Vachaspati, 'lord of speech,' and is associated with the Angirasa clan of seers. The Brihaspati Purana, a minor Purana, extols his glories and describes rituals for his propitiation. The primary mula mantra 'Om Graam Greem Graum Sah Gurave Namah' is a beej (seed) mantra that invokes the essence of Jupiter.
The bija syllables 'graam', 'greem', 'graum' are derived from the planetary seed mantra system detailed in texts like the Mantra Mahodadhi. The phoneme 'gr' is associated with the planet Jupiter, and the nasalization (anusvara) adds potency. Chanting this mantra is believed to remove obstacles related to education, career, and marriage, and to enhance spiritual wisdom. According to the Jyotisha texts, reciting the Guru mantra 108 times on Thursdays (Guruvar) at sunrise, facing east, is highly auspicious. A full practice may involve 40,000 repetitions (purashcharana) over 40 days. The mantra should be chanted with devotion and proper pronunciation; it is recommended to receive initiation (upadesha) from a qualified guru.
Cautions: Those with afflicted Jupiter in their horoscope should chant with care, as the energy can be intense. Pregnant women and those with mental agitation may benefit from shorter sessions. The mantra is also used in Navagraha homa (fire ritual) to pacify malefic Jupiter or strengthen benefic Jupiter. Guru is depicted with golden complexion, four arms holding a lotus, rosary, kamandalu (water pot), and in abhaya mudra, riding an elephant or a chariot drawn by eight horses. His consort is Tara, and his mount is the elephant. Worship of Guru is especially recommended for those seeking knowledge, wealth, children, and spiritual liberation.
Om, to the divine Guru, we offer salutations.
The mantra contains three bija syllables: 'grāṃ', 'grīṃ', 'grauṃ', derived from the planetary seed mantra system. The consonant 'gr' is associated with Jupiter (Guru), and the nasalization (anusvāra) adds potency. 'Saḥ' is a pronoun referring to the deity.