Om Namah Shivaya and Maha Shivaratri
Maha Shivaratri is a significant Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva and spiritual elevation. Devotion to Shiva on this sacred night leads to self-purification, mental peace, and spiritual progress.
Maha Shivaratri and the “Bam” Seed Mantra
The word “Bam” is a seed mantra—chanting it 125,000 times on the night of Shivaratri helps alleviate air-borne ailments, arthritis, mental stress, etc. Chanting “Bam Bam Bhole” on Shivaratri removes air-related diseases and balances an individual’s energy.
Planetary Alignment and Spiritual Impact
On the Amavasya (new moon) of the Phalguna month, a special planetary alignment occurs, making the energy on this day more powerful than usual. This day is considered the best for meditation, spiritual practices, and devotion. Observing fasting and self-restraint on Shivaratri helps elevate one’s mind and intellect to a higher spiritual plane.
The Importance of Restraint and Shiva Worship
Chanting Om Namah Shivaya and practicing self-discipline leads to spiritual well-being. The influence of Shivaratri affects the mind, intellect, and consciousness. On this day, husband and wife should observe celibacy, as engaging in worldly acts can generate negative energy, leading to despair, disappointment, and even suicidal thoughts.
The Glory of Sanatan Culture
There are four major ancient civilizations—the Egyptian, Roman, Chinese, and Indian Sanatan culture. While other cultures have faded, Sanatan Dharma still thrives. Even today, millions of devotees chant Om Namah Shivaya in Shiva temples, proving the eternal nature of Indian culture.
Symbolism in the Worship of Lord Shiva
Lord Shiva is not addicted to intoxicants like Bhang (cannabis), but he is intoxicated by the vastness of the universe. Shiva, as the gardener of creation, sometimes disrupts the old world to create a new and beautiful universe. His appearance conveys profound life lessons:
- Garland of skulls – Symbolizes that he accepts only those whose minds are illuminated with divine wisdom.
- Serpent around the neck – Represents life’s impermanence and illusion.
- Ash from cremation grounds – Teaches that the body is mortal and that ego should be renounced.
- Trident (Trishul) – Represents the destruction of three types of suffering—divine, physical, and spiritual.
- Residence on Mount Kailash – Represents a higher spiritual state and mental stability.
Lessons from Lord Shiva’s Family
Lord Shiva’s entire family symbolizes harmony, tolerance, and balance in life:
- Shiva’s vehicle is the bull, while Goddess Parvati’s is a lion—natural enemies, yet they coexist peacefully under Shiva’s guidance.
- Ganesha rides a mouse, while Kartikeya rides a peacock—also natural adversaries, but they live in unity within Shiva’s family.
Rituals of Maha Shivaratri Worship
- Fasting and self-restraint – Observe a complete fast or consume cow’s milk, apples, or grapes.
- Shivalinga Abhishek – Offer water, milk, curd, honey, bilva leaves, and Ganga water to Lord Shiva.
- Chant Om Namah Shivaya – Recite at least 108 times.
- Night Vigil (Jagran) – Stay awake all night, engaging in Shiva stories, mantra chanting, and meditation.
- Offering Bilva leaves – Highly revered by Lord Shiva, they help eliminate air-borne diseases.
The Four Great Spiritual Nights
- Maha Shivaratri – Known as “Ahoratri” (the great night).
- Krishna Janmashtami – Called “Moharatri” (the night of illusion).
- Holi – Referred to as “Darunaratri” (the night of intense energy).
- Kali Chaudas – Known as “Kalaratri” (the night of darkness).
Practicing meditation, restraint, and spiritual discipline on these four nights elevates the mind and intellect to higher consciousness, leading to peace, prosperity, and spiritual enlightenment.
The Power of Omkar and Shiva Devotion
- Chanting Om Namah Shivaya is the best way to attain desired goals and spiritual upliftment.
- Reciting Om 108 times daily leads to Brahmaloka (the supreme abode).
- Chanting twice as much grants Vishnu’s divine presence.
- Chanting three times as much merges one into Shiva-consciousness.
The Importance of Aarti and Temple Visits
- Raising hands while entering a temple elevates the mind and life energy.
- Ringing the temple bells silences negative thoughts and instills positivity.
- Each item used in Shiva worship holds deep spiritual significance.
Conclusion
Maha Shivaratri is a sacred occasion for self-purification, devotion, and meditation. Practicing restraint, prayer, and mantra chanting on this day brings spiritual progress.
Maha Shivaratri Vrat: 26th February
- Nishith Kaal (Midnight Period): 12:15 AM to 1:04 AM
- Four Prahars (Watches of the Night):
- First Prahar: 6:29 PM (Evening)
- Second Prahar: 9:34 PM (Night)
- Third Prahar: 12:39 AM (Midnight)
- Fourth Prahar: 27th February, 3:45 AM (Early Morning)
- Parana (Breaking the Fast): 27th February
Let us all chant Om Namah Shivaya this Maha Shivaratri and fill our lives with spiritual energy.
Om Namah Shivaya!