Mihira – The Third Great General of Medicine Buddha

Guardian of the South | Protector of Vital Energy and the Fire Element


📜 Introduction

General Mihira is one of the Twelve Yaksha Generals (Dvādaśa Yakṣa Rājā), each of whom commands an army of 7,000 yakshas to safeguard sentient beings and the healing teachings of the Medicine Buddha, Bhaiṣajyaguru. These divine generals are invoked in rituals and sutras, especially the Medicine Buddha Sutra, where their vows are recited as sacred protections for the sick, the weak, and spiritual practitioners.


🧿 Name and Etymology

AttributeDetails
Sanskrit NameMihira (मिहिर)
Chinese Name彌訶羅 (Míhēluó)
Meaning“Sun” or “Radiance”; Mihira is another name for the Sun God in Hindu-Buddhist tradition, symbolizing vitality and energy
DirectionSouth

🌞 Symbolism and Associations

SymbolMeaning
ElementFire – representing vital heat, transformation, life force
SeasonSummer
ColorRed, Gold
Symbolic RoleThe Bringer of Light and Vitality – protector against metabolic, circulatory, and fire-related disorders

⚔️ Iconography and Representation

FeatureDepiction
WeaponFlaming spear, sun wheel, or radiant sword
AppearanceRadiates solar brilliance; often shown with flames or sun disk behind
PoseDynamic, warrior-like posture, sometimes riding a fiery beast
MoodFierce yet noble; balances heat and compassion

💎 Sacred Vow

When Mihira heard the Medicine Buddha’s twelve vows, he made a solemn promise:

“I shall protect those who recite the sacred name of the Medicine Buddha. I will dispel diseases related to heat, blood, and circulation. I vow to shine light on their karma, so they may be healed and free from suffering.”


💠 Healing Domain and Devotional Significance

AspectSignificance
Healing FocusDisorders of the blood, metabolism, heat regulation, liver, and circulatory system
Spiritual ProtectionDispels anger, excess heat, burnout, and emotional rage
Inner WorkEncourages passion balanced with wisdom, energizes spiritual practice
Devotee BenefitsHelps practitioners overcome fatigue, burnout, and inflammation in the body and mind

🙏 Invocation and Practice

PracticeDetails
Invocation Phrase“Namo Yaksha Mihira Mahārāja!” (Homage to General Mihira of the South!)
MeditationVisualize Mihira surrounded by solar light, purifying inner heat and inflammation
Mantra UseRecite in combination with Medicine Buddha Mantra to enhance healing effects
OfferingsRed or orange flowers, sunlight lamps, saffron incense

📖 Ritual Role

In rituals dedicated to the Medicine Buddha, Mihira’s energy is summoned to revitalize patients, especially those suffering from:

  • Fevers and heat-related illnesses
  • Inflammatory diseases (hepatitis, skin flare-ups)
  • Blood pressure disorders
  • Exhaustion and chronic fatigue
  • Excessive anger or fiery emotions

He is also a patron of those performing healing work, especially those whose energy or motivation is depleted.


🌀 Visualization Practice

Imagine Mihira standing in the southern direction, surrounded by flames of golden-red light. His right hand holds a flaming vajra or sun disk, which emits healing energy toward your heart. His left hand holds a healing herb or jewel. With each breath, absorb his radiance and feel warmth dispelling sickness, fatigue, and emotional heaviness.


🔺 Comparative Table of First Three Yaksha Generals

GeneralName (Sanskrit)DirectionDomain of HealingSymbol
1stKumbhīraEastFoundation, stability, bonesTurtle or guardian tower
2ndVajraSoutheastMental clarity, resolveDiamond thunderbolt
3rdMihiraSouthVitality, fire, blood, metabolismSun, flame, radiant spear

🧘 Spiritual Message

“True healing is not only the removal of disease—but the rekindling of your inner fire.”
– Mihira, Yaksha General of the South

Through honoring Mihira, devotees not only receive protection from fiery afflictions but also gain access to the motivating force behind spiritual awakening and life purpose.


Would you like to continue with the 4th Great General, or receive a combined infographic/poster of all 12 Yaksha Generals?

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