Sri Maha Shasta Ashtakam

1.    I bow to the primordial Lord Shasta, whose lotus feet are worshipped by sages, who rides elephants, tigers, and lions, and is ever surrounded by the twin goddesses.
    2.    The one essence of Hari and Hara, embodiment of truth, consciousness, and bliss, remover of worldly fear, upholder of Dharma, and protector of devotees.
    3.    The glorious son of Hari and Hara, supreme among heroes, lord of the gods, who descended in Kali Yuga to destroy fear and grant liberation, residing on the Malaya mountain.
    4.    The adorable Bhuthanatha, manifestation of Lord Shiva, holding a lotus, fivefold in divine aspect, crowned with gems, adorned with jasmine garlands, and ever compassionate.
    5.    The radiant reflection of the divine union of Vishnu and Shiva, shining brighter than countless suns, spotless as the moon, embodiment of Om — beyond mind yet realized by sages.
    6.    Dressed in golden robes, perfumed with sandalwood, smiling gently, delighting the noble-hearted, giver of joy and destroyer of worldly sorrow.
    7.    Worshipped by sages, source of liberation, teacher of sacred wisdom, destroyer of the six inner enemies, the Taraka Brahman — the supreme refuge of seekers.
    8.    Ever pleased by offerings of sweet rice and ghee, affectionate to those who bow at His feet, dwelling in the lotus of the devotee’s heart.
    9.    Whoever recites this Maha Shasta Ashtakam with devotion gains both worldly pleasures and spiritual liberation, ever blessed by the Lord Himself.

Summary:
The Sri Maha Shasta Ashtakam extols Lord Dharmashasta (Ayyappa), the divine son of Hari and Hara, as the compassionate protector, teacher, and liberator of humanity. He is depicted as radiant like a thousand suns, calm as the moon, seated on the Malaya mountains, and worshipped by sages. Through these eight verses, His qualities of strength, wisdom, mercy, and grace are praised. Regular recitation grants protection, prosperity, peace, and ultimate liberation.