- By Kashish Rai
- Sat, 22 Feb 2025 01:41 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Maha Shivratri 2025: Mahashivratri is a sacred Hindu festival that marks Lord Shiva's divine union with Goddess Shakti. This year, Maha Shivratri vrat will be observed on 26th February 2025. Performing Shivling Abhishekam on this day holds immense spiritual significance as it is believed to purify the mind, body and soul. By bathing the Shivling with sacred waters, devotees seek Lord Shiva's blessings, forgiveness and protection. This ritual is believed to bring balance, harmony and spiritual growth.
However, devotees can follow certain rules while performing the Shivling Abhishekam to escape misfortune. Below is the list of 7 prominent rules that everyone must adhere to while offering water to the Shivling:
Maha Shivratri 2025: 7 Rules You MUST Follow While Performing Shivling Abhishekam
1. When offering water to the Shivling, always face north, as this direction is associated with Mother Parvati, who resides on the left side of Lord Shiva. By doing so, you'll receive blessings from both Shiva and Parvati. Avoid facing south or east as these directions are considered inauspicious. Ensure you're mindful of your direction to maximise the benefits of your offering.
2. To make your water offering effective, sit down while performing the ritual. Standing while offering water is believed to yield no results. Sitting demonstrates humility and respect, allowing you to connect with Lord Shiva on a deeper level. Find a comfortable and quiet spot to sit and offer water with devotion.
3. When selecting a vessel to offer water, choose a copper one, as it's considered auspicious. Avoid using steel or iron vessels, as they're deemed inauspicious. Copper vessels are believed to possess spiritual significance, allowing for a more meaningful connection with Lord Shiva. Ensure you use a copper vessel to amplify the benefits of your offering.
People must follow certain rules while performing abhishekam of the sacred Shivling to avoid misfortune. (Image Source: Canva)
4. While offering water, maintain a continuous stream to ensure the ritual's effectiveness. Avoid breaking the stream, as this can disrupt the flow of energy. If you're offering milk instead of water, however, avoid using a copper vessel. Be mindful of the vessel and the flow of liquid to maximise the benefits of your offering.
5. Refrain from using a conch shell to offer water, as it's prohibited in Shiva worship. According to legend, Lord Shiva killed the demon Shankhchud, and the conch is believed to be made from the demon's bones. Using a conch shell can negate the benefits of your offering, so it's essential to choose an alternative vessel.
6. When offering water, be mindful of the timing. The most auspicious time is between 5 am and 11 am. Avoid offering water in the evening, as this can reduce the effectiveness of the ritual. Plan your offering accordingly to maximise the benefits and connect with Lord Shiva on a deeper level.
7. While performing Jalabhishek, ensure you use pure, unadulterated water. Avoid mixing any other materials, such as flowers or herbs, as this can reduce the water's purity. Using pure water allows for a more meaningful connection with Lord Shiva and amplifies the benefits of your offering.
To maximise the benefits of your water offering, maintain a respectful and reverent attitude. Avoid distractions, and focus on the ritual. By doing so, you'll create a deeper connection with Lord Shiva and amplify the benefits of your offering. Approach the ritual with an open heart and mind to experience its transformative power.
(Disclaimer: This is based on general public information, Jagran English does not confirm its veracity. Before adopting any measures, consult an expert in the relevant field.)
