Bilvashtakam is a devotional hymn or stotram dedicated to Lord Shiva. It consists of eight verses and is known for its powerful spiritual significance. This hymn is often recited or chanted by devotees of Lord Shiva, especially during the worship of the Shiva Lingam or on special occasions like Maha Shivaratri. Each verse of the Bilvashtakam praises Lord Shiva and extols the virtues of offering Bilva leaves (leaves of the Bael tree) to Lord Shiva. Bilva leaves are considered highly sacred and are believed to be a favorite offering to Lord Shiva.

Here is the text of the Bilvashtakam in Sanskrit, along with its English transliteration:

Sanskrit: 

दरिद्रदुर्गभयहरणि कालनाशनम् कालभैरवं शरणमामि कालभैरवम् ।

कणाकलापं त्रिनेत्रं पञ्चाननं च पशुचर्मवासनं रक्तमालाधरं भजे ॥ १ ॥

Transliteration: daridra-durgabhaya-haraṇi kāla-nāśanam kāla-bhairavaṁ śaraṇam-āmi kāla-bhairavam kaṇākalāpaṁ tri-netraṁ pañcānanaṁ ca paśu-carma-vāsanaṁ rakta-mālā-dharaṁ bhaje

Each verse of Bilvashtakam describes various aspects of Lord Shiva and his divine attributes. The hymn is a beautiful expression of devotion and a way for devotees to seek the blessings and protection of Lord Shiva.

You can recite or chant the Bilvashtakam as a part of your worship or meditation practice to connect with Lord Shiva and seek his grace.