shiv ji om jai jagdish hare aarti lyrics dhaarmi

Maha Shivratri, the Great Night of Lord Shiva, is a significant Hindu festival celebrated with immense devotion and reverence. It is a time when devotees honor Lord Shiva, the destroyer of evil, and seek his blessings for spiritual growth and liberation. Understanding what to offer, what to avoid, the best time for temple visits, and the significance of fasting can enhance the spiritual experience of this auspicious occasion.

Offerings to Lord Shiva on Shivratri 2024:

  1. Milk and Water: Abhishekam, the ritual bathing of the Shiva Lingam, is a key practice on Shivratri. Offering milk and water to the Lingam is believed to purify the soul and bring peace and prosperity.
  2. Bilva Leaves: The Bilva (Bael) leaf is dear to Lord Shiva. Offering Bilva leaves to the Lingam is considered highly auspicious and is said to absolve one of sins and lead to spiritual upliftment.
  3. Honey and Curd: Offering honey and curd during the Abhishekam is believed to promote healing and good health.
  4. Sandalwood Paste: Applying sandalwood paste to the Shiva Lingam is a mark of respect and devotion. It is said to cool the Lingam and please Lord Shiva.
  5. Flowers: Flowers such as white lotus, jasmine, and others are offered to Lord Shiva. They symbolize purity, devotion, and the beauty of nature.
  6. Fruits: Offering fruits to Lord Shiva is a sign of sacrifice and detachment. It is believed to bring abundance and fulfillment in life.
  7. Dhatura and Akanda Flowers: These are believed to be favorite offerings of Lord Shiva and are said to remove negative energies and promote spiritual growth.

What Not to Offer:

  1. Tulsi (Basil) Leaves: Tulsi is not offered to Lord Shiva as it is associated with his consort, Goddess Parvati, and is considered inappropriate for Shiva worship.
  2. Ketaki Flower: According to mythology, the Ketaki flower is not offered to Lord Shiva due to its role in a dispute between Lord Brahma and Lord Shiva.
  3. Turmeric: Turmeric is generally avoided in Shiva worship as it is associated with feminine energy and fertility, which is not considered suitable for the ascetic nature of Lord Shiva.

Best Time to Visit the Temple:

The best time to visit a Shiva temple on Shivratri is during the Nishita Kaal, which is the midnight hour. It is believed that Lord Shiva performed the Tandava dance at this time. Devotees often visit temples during the four ‘prahars’ (divisions of the night) to perform the Abhishekam and participate in the rituals.

Fasting on Shivratri:

Fasting on Shivratri is observed by devotees seeking spiritual growth, purification, and the blessings of Lord Shiva. It is believed that fasting helps in self-discipline, detoxification, and enhances one’s focus on meditation and prayers. There are different types of fasts:

  1. Nirjala Fast: A strict fast where one abstains from both food and water. This is observed by those seeking intense spiritual experiences.
  2. Phalahar Fast: A more common fast where devotees consume fruits, milk, and other non-grain items. This is suitable for those who cannot observe a complete fast due to health reasons.
  3. Partial Fast: Some devotees opt for a partial fast where they consume a single meal during the day.

Fasting on Shivratri is also believed to purify the mind and body, leading to greater clarity and focus in meditation. It is a time to connect with the divine, seek inner transformation, and celebrate the cosmic dance of creation, preservation, and destruction. However, those with health issues, pregnant women, and the elderly should consult a doctor before fasting. It is important to listen to one’s body and not overexert oneself.