The application of Tilak, a venerable tradition with deep spiritual significance, a practice steeped in antiquity, carries profound spiritual significance, often overlooked by many. Its application across various parts of the body, including the forehead, neck, shoulders, elbows, chest, and ankles, is not merely a cosmetic ritual but a symbolic embrace of higher knowledge and divine connection.
The forehead, known as the position of Vidya or knowledge, symbolizes internal wisdom and spiritual progression. In the ancient text of Samudrika Shastra, a wide forehead is regarded as a sign of developed intellect and wisdom, reflecting the Supreme Soul. Each part of the head representing different elements—forehead the sky, eyebrows the air, eyes the fire, tongue the water, and nose the earth. Tilak application transcends mere aesthetics; it embodies a spiritual journey towards embracing Parabrahma, the embodiment of pure knowledge, and alleviating physical discomforts. Known as Lalada Tilakam, this practice extends beyond superficial beauty enhancement, serving as a symbol of wisdom and enlightenment. Applied after bathing, Tilak signifies the cleansing of both the body and the mind, akin to purging the dirt of ignorance from one’s existence.
Among the materials used for Tilak, Bhasma, Sandalwood, and Saffron (Kumkum) hold significant symbolism, representing the three visions of wisdom and the three spiritual forces—Vishnu, Shiva, and Shakti.
Bhasma, derived from ashes, embodies the formless, all-pervading essence of Shiva, the destroyer. Siva tatva is the formless, Nirguna and all-pervading vision of true self, whose ashes burn no more. Ashes are all that is left after material things have been burnt. Similarly, even if the entire universe is destroyed, the Self remains. ‘Shiva’ is this Paramatma tatva. When applied horizontally across the forehead, it signifies the various stages of life one has traversed.
Sandalwood, on the other hand, symbolizes the omnipresence of Vishnu, the preserver, and is applied vertically to invoke devotion. Vishnu is Saguna Brahma. The word ‘Vishnu’ means all-pervasive. Sandalwood is used to indicate this. The quality of sandalwood is fragrance. The smell of sandalwood spreads quickly. Sandalwood is a very good symbol to indicate the omnipresence of Vishnu and because Vishnu is a God rich in holy sattva qualities, with its fragrance, softness and coolness, sandalwood, which is also a medicine, signifies devotion to Vishnu, Sandalwood should be touched with the ring finger. It should touch the middle of the forehead vertically. Wearing sandalwood across the forehead like ashes is prohibited by Vaishnava practices. Sandalwood is worn on the upper body as a symbol of the spinal cord. Vaishnavites call it ‘Urdhwapundram’. (Three vertical lines on the forehead) As a simple Tilak. it signifies that if the body is the form of the universe, then Vishnu is the main pillar.
Saffron, representing Shakti, is placed centrally to denote the guiding force encompassing the vast universe. Saffron is a goddess form. It indicates Mahamaya tatva. It can be applied in the middle or lower on the forehead. Applied as a circle or bindu, a tiny speck compared to the vast universe, to indicate the great power that guides everything. To highlight the wonder that this single point guides the great expanse. Saffron, Kumkum, and Red indicate the form of the Goddess. The shape and the colour of Kumkum is the true form of Mahamaya. The suitable colour for this is red. Blood is the form of nature and Prana is the form of spirit. The blood-coloured saffron touching the centre of the soul, the seat of the soul, signifies the union between soul and nature. Saffron should be touched with middle finger. Shaktism says that saffron should not be applied horizontally or vertically on the forehead.
The combination of these materials reflects a harmonious unity, signifying the divine interplay of Shiva Shakti, Vishnumaya, and Tripurasundari. Each material is applied with specific fingers and in particular positions according to respective traditions, highlighting the intricate nuances of spiritual practice.
Regular Tilak application serves to purify the subtle channels of the mind-body organism, bringing balance and increased devotion. It activates the Jnanachakra, fostering wisdom, intuition, concentration, and memory power. Through this practice, one attains a state of steadiness, heightened awareness, and control over prana and thoughts, stimulating all faculties of the mind.
In essence, Tilak transcends its cosmetic appearance, serving as a conduit for spiritual elevation and divine connection. It embodies the ancient wisdom of our philosophical traditions, guiding practitioners towards inner enlightenment and profound spiritual growth.
