tilaka | तिलक
Tilak is a sacred forehead mark signifying the chosen spiritual guide. Discover its materials, like sandalwood and musk, and its role in identifying a disciple's Guru.
Tilaka (Devanagari: तिलक; ISO 15919: tilaka) refers to a sacred marking worn on the center of the forehead. It is typically applied using sandalwood paste (chandan), saffron, or other auspicious substances.
Shri Krishna's Tilak Shri Krishna is often described as wearing a black Kasturi Tilak (musk). While material musk is a strong-smelling substance derived from the musk deer, in the divine context, it enhances His supreme beauty and fragrance.
Significance and Tradition Traditionally, every Guru adopts a distinctive shape of Tilak. Disciples wear this specific style to signify their allegiance. Thus, the Tilak serves a dual purpose: it acts as a constant spiritual reminder to the wearer and identifies their spiritual family to others.
Further Reading and Reference
- Alternate Spelling: tilak
- Related Concepts: kanthi
- Reference: Prema Rasa Madira - The Intoxicating Bliss of Divine Love, Vol. 1, Ch. 3