The Hath Yogeshwar Mantra is a sacred invocation dedicated to Lord Shiva in his aspect as the supreme lord of Hatha Yoga. The term 'Hatha' is traditionally explained in the Hatha Yoga Pradipika (1.10) as a compound of 'ha' (sun) and 'tha' (moon), symbolizing the union of the solar and lunar energies (pingala and ida nadis) through yogic practice. 'Yogeshwar' means 'lord of yoga,' and this mantra is chanted to invoke Shiva's grace for mastery over the physical and subtle dimensions of yoga, particularly the awakening of kundalini shakti.
The mantra's beej (seed) syllables, often including 'Om' and 'Hrim,' are designed to align the practitioner's prana and consciousness with the cosmic yogic force. According to the Shiva Purana (Vidyeshvara Samhita, Chapter 10), Shiva as Yogeshwar is the ultimate guru who imparts the knowledge of yoga to sages and devotees. The mantra is traditionally chanted during the practice of asanas, pranayama, and meditation, especially at dawn or dusk, with a minimum of 108 repetitions using a rudraksha mala.
It is believed to remove obstacles in the path of yoga, enhance concentration, and facilitate the rise of kundalini through the sushumna nadi. The Mantra Mahodadhi (Chapter 4) mentions that such yogic mantras should be received from a qualified guru and chanted with proper visualization of Shiva in his meditative form, seated in padmasana, trident in hand, and adorned with ashes. Caution is advised: this mantra should not be chanted without prior purification and guidance, as its energy is potent and can disturb an unprepared mind.
It is especially recommended on Maha Shivaratri and International Yoga Day, when the cosmic currents are most favorable for spiritual practice. The mantra embodies the essence of Hatha Yoga as a means to transcend duality and realize the non-dual Self, as taught in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (1.2).
Salutations to the lord of Hatha Yoga, who is the union of sun and moon energies.
The mantra contains the beej 'hrīṃ', which is a seed syllable associated with Shiva's transformative energy and purification of the nadis.