What is the glory of the 12 names of Hanuman ji?

Shri Hanuman Ji, the embodiment of strength, devotion, courage, and selfless service, holds a special place in the hearts of millions of devotees. Known as an ardent devotee of Lord Rama and the son of the wind god Vayu, Hanuman Ji’s name itself instills courage and removes fear. Among the many powerful mantras and stotras dedicated to him, the "Hanuman Dvadasha Nama Stotra", or the 12 Names of Hanuman Ji, holds a special significance in the spiritual traditions of Hinduism.

This stotra, which lists twelve powerful names of Hanuman Ji, is revered for its divine energy, protective power, and the blessings it bestows upon its reciter. Each name encapsulates a unique attribute of Hanuman Ji and acts as a spiritual shield, invoking his blessings for health, strength, success, and protection from negative forces.

Origin and Scriptural Significance

The 12 names of Hanuman Ji are mentioned in several texts, including the Ananda Ramayana, a devotional scripture in honor of Lord Rama and his devotees. This stotra is recited in various traditions, especially during Hanuman Jayanti and other auspicious occasions related to Hanuman worship. It is said that sage Narada once advised its regular recitation to a devotee for spiritual and worldly benefits.

Image : The Glory of the 12 Names of Hanuman Ji | 12 names of hanuman

The 12 names are:

1. Om Hanumate Namah

2. Om Anjaneyaya Namah

3. Om Marutatmajaya Namah

4. Om Tatvajnaya Namah

5. Om Chit Gunasagaraya Namah

6. Om Ramadootaya Namah

7. Om Pratapavate Namah

8. Om Vanarinamadhishthaya Namah

9. Om Sita Shoka Vinashakaya Namah

10. Om Lakshmana Praana Datre Namah

11. Om Dashagriva Darpaha Namah

12. Om Shriram Bhakta Namah

Let us explore the deeper meanings and spiritual glory associated with each of these divine names.

1. Om Hanumate Namah

This is the most common and widely used name of the Lord. “Hanuman” means one who is victorious over pride or ego. This name is chanted to invoke courage, intelligence, and physical strength. It removes fear and instills valor.

2. Om Anjaneyaya Namah

This name refers to Hanuman as the son of Anjana Devi. It reminds the devotee of his divine birth and connection with purity and penance. It also signifies the role of motherly blessings and grace in spiritual development.

3. Om Marutatmajaya Namah

This name highlights Hanuman as the son of the wind god, Vayu. The wind signifies life force (prana), and invoking this name helps balance vital energies, improve vitality, and invoke divine grace.

4. Om Tatvajnaya Namah

Hanuman is a knower of spiritual truths (Tatva Jnana). He is not just a warrior, but also a great philosopher and a yogi. This name is especially meaningful for seekers on the path of knowledge, as it invokes clarity and wisdom.

5. Om Chit Gunasagaraya Namah

"Chit" refers to consciousness and "Gunasagara" means ocean of virtues. This name praises Hanuman as the ocean of divine qualities such as humility, devotion, fearlessness, and intelligence. It uplifts the mind and purifies the soul.

6. Om Ramadootaya Namah

This means “the messenger of Rama.” Hanuman carried Lord Rama’s message to Sita in Lanka, symbolizing devotion and unwavering loyalty. It teaches us the importance of selfless service and surrender to God’s will.

7. Om Pratapavate Namah

This refers to Hanuman as the powerful and valiant one. His strength is not merely physical but also spiritual. Chanting this name instills a sense of power, courage, and confidence in the devotee.

8. Om Vanarinamadhishthaya Namah

This name honors Hanuman as the leader of the vanaras (monkey warriors). It signifies leadership, organization, and the ability to inspire others. It is especially useful for those in positions of responsibility.

9. Om Sita Shoka Vinashakaya Namah

This beautiful name means “the one who removed Sita’s sorrow.” When Hanuman met Sita in Lanka, he gave her hope and courage. This name is chanted to overcome grief, depression, and emotional suffering.

10. Om Lakshmana Praana Datre Namah

During the war in Lanka, Hanuman brought the Sanjeevani herb to revive Lakshmana. This name honors his role as the giver of life. It is a powerful invocation for healing and health-related prayers.

11. Om Dashagriva Darpaha Namah

This name means “destroyer of Ravana’s pride.” Hanuman’s burning of Lanka and fearless acts in enemy territory are a testament to his power. This name destroys ego, arrogance, and obstacles in life.

12. Om Shriram Bhakta Namah

This final name beautifully encapsulates Hanuman Ji’s ultimate identity as a devotee of Lord Rama. It reminds us that devotion (bhakti) is the highest virtue. This name deepens our own devotion and connection to the Divine.

Benefits of Reciting the 12 Names of Hanuman Ji

Reciting the 12 names daily or on special days like Tuesdays, Saturdays, or Hanuman Jayanti brings a multitude of benefits:

• Protection: These names act as a shield against evil forces, accidents, and negative energies.

• Health: Especially names like Lakshmana Praana Datre help in healing and maintaining physical vitality.

• Mental Strength: Names like Tatvajnaya and Chit Gunasagaraya help in attaining mental clarity and emotional stability.

• Spiritual Progress: Shriram Bhakta and Ramadoota lead one on the path of devotion and surrender.

• Success in Endeavors: Hanuman Ji is known to remove obstacles. These names, when chanted with sincerity, help in achieving goals and fulfilling desires.

How to Incorporate the Practice

You can incorporate the 12 names of Hanuman Ji into your daily or weekly sadhana (spiritual practice) as follows:

• Chant them after lighting a lamp or incense in front of Hanuman’s image or idol.

• Meditate briefly on each name’s meaning as you chant.

• Recite them in times of fear, illness, or emotional distress.

• Use them as a part of your daily mantra, japa, or prayer time.

Conclusion

The 12 names of Hanuman Ji are not just a string of praises; they are a spiritual powerhouse packed with divine energy. They teach us the values of strength, humility, service, devotion, and divine wisdom. For those who seek divine protection, spiritual growth, and inner strength, the regular chanting of these names offers a direct path to connect with Hanuman Ji's blessings.

In the turbulent times of modern life, the presence of Hanuman Ji, invoked through these sacred names, acts as a beacon of hope and strength. May the chant of his twelve names echo in our hearts and homes, guiding us through every trial with faith and fortitude.

Jai Hanuman! Jai Shri Ram!