How different are “Brahmarakshas” from ordinary ghosts, The truth about their origins is hidden in the Garuda Purana. Brahma Rakshasa: How different ‘Brahmarakshas’ are from common ghosts, the scary truth of their origin is hidden in Garuda Purana.

The name of ‘Brahmarakshas’ is always taken as a mystery and fear in Indian mythology and folklore. Often people put them in the category of ordinary ghosts or spirits, but according to Garuda Purana and Hindu cosmology, Brahmarakshasas are much more powerful and complex than any ordinary ghost. After all, who are they and why are they called ‘Brahmarakshas’? Let us know the mythological and philosophical truth behind them.

Who are Brahmarakshasas?

The word ‘Brahmarakshas’ is made up of two words – ‘Brahm’ meaning learned Brahmin or knowledgeable and ‘Rakshas’ meaning evil spirit. These are no ordinary ghosts, but the wandering souls of those high-ranking scholars, priests or gurus, who during their lifetime used the great knowledge of the Vedas and Shastras to satisfy their personal interests, lust or ego rather than for public welfare. After death, due to this grave sin, they are cursed to wander in the womb of ‘Brahmarakshas’.

Egoism of knowledge becomes the cause of downfall

According to Hindu scriptures, the dharma of a Brahmin is purity, selflessness and spreading knowledge. But when the same scholar uses his knowledge to humiliate others, deceive others, accumulate wealth or establish himself as ‘God’, then he is on the path of becoming a Brahmarakshasa. Garuda Purana clearly mentions that anyone who distorts the meaning of the sacred texts or betrays the temple property and the Guru has to face this dreadful situation after death.

What is their form and nature?

Brahmarakshas has been depicted as very scary in mythological stories. These are usually:

• Super-Powerful: They are highly intelligent and powerful compared to ordinary spirits.

• Horrible figure: They are described as extremely tall, thin and lean, with ashy or black skin.

• uniform: On his body are torn traditional Brahmin clothes and a tuft of scattered hair.

• Habitat: These are often seen hanging upside down in old banyan trees or dense forests.

Take exams through riddles

In the famous 11th century book ‘Kathasaritsagar’, many such stories of Brahmarakshas are prevalent, in which he stops travelers passing through the forests and asks them difficult riddles. These spirits test the travelers’ intelligence and religious knowledge. If the traveler fails in these riddles or arguments, his death is considered certain. It is a popular belief that these wandering souls are not freed until a knowledgeable or virtuous person rescues them through appropriate rituals.