The Kala Bhairava Ashtakam is a powerful Sanskrit hymn composed by Adi Shankaracharya, dedicated to Kala Bhairava, a fierce form of Lord Shiva associated with time (Kala) and protection. Chanting this ashtakam is believed to grant spiritual protection, liberation from the cycle of time, and inner strength.

Here is the Kala Bhairava Ashtakam with meaning:

Verse 1
Deva-raja-sevyamana-pavana-anghri-pankajam,
Vyala-yajna-sutra-mindra-kantha-ratna-dipakam,
Damara-hasa-madhya-mantra-rupam-avyayam,
Kala-bhairavam bhaje shiva-lokya-nayakam.

Meaning:
I worship Kala Bhairava, the supreme lord of the city of Shiva, whose sacred lotus feet are revered by the king of devas, whose neck shines with the snake-adorned sacrificial thread, whose mantra is eternal, and who radiates with the brilliance of jewels.
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Verse 2
Bhanu-koti-bhasvaram bhavabdhi-tarakam param,
Neelakantha-meepsitam chatur-ashrama-sanyutam,
Kala-kala-mambujaksha-maksha-shoola-maksharam,
Kala-bhairavam bhaje...