Natraja Media - Maha Shivratri 2024

Maha Maha Shivratri Shivratri

commemorates

THEGREATNIGHT OF LORDSHIVA

SHIVRATRI RITUALS

THE FOUR PARTS OF THE NIGHT OF MAHA SHIVRATRI

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PonderingsofthePublisher

Greetings to our readers,

As the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivaratri approaches, it beckons us to delve into the depths of our spiritual consciousness and embrace a profound sense of renewal

This sacred festival, dedicated to Lord Shiva, holds timeless significance, offering devotees an

opportunity to embark on a journey of introspection, devotion, and transcendence

Until next time, stay safe and stay healthy.

JAREDDRAJOO

Greetings to our readers,

As we come together to celebrate Maha Shivaratri, let us open our hearts to the divine presence within and around us. Let us reflect on the timeless teachings of Lord Shiva –of compassion, righteousness, and selfrealization. And let us emerge from this sacred night, renewed in spirit and reinvigorated in our pursuit of truth and enlightenment

In the darkness of the night, let us kindle the flame of divine love and illuminate our path with the light of wisdom. For in embracing the essence of Maha Shivaratri, we discover the infinite potential that lies within us – the power to transcend limitations, to awaken our highest consciousness, and to journey towards ultimate liberation

Be sure to like our page on Facebook and stay up to date with the latest from Natraja Media. As always we love feedback and love hearing from our readers.

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May this Maha Shivaratri be a time of profound transformation and spiritual awakening for all. Let us embrace the divine grace of Lord Shiva and embark on a journey of selfdiscovery, renewal, and inner peace.

RAVIKANAICKER

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Unity

Divine

OUR TEAM

Significance and Celebration

Maha Shivratri is a Hindu festival that celebrates Lord Shiva, one of the trinity gods in Hinduism. Maha Shivaratri, which means "Great Night of Shiva" in Sanskrit occurs on the fourteenth night of the dark fortnight of the Hindu lunar month of Phalguna. In the year 2024, Mahashivratri would be celebrated on March 8. The festival is a way to promote peace and spirituality and to help people make positive changes in their lives.

Why is Maha Shivratri celebrated?

The festival signifies several events important to devotees.

Shivaratri commemorates the wedding night of Lord Shiva to his consort Parvati Thus it is a festival particularly marked by married couples.

During this night Lord Shiva as Nataraja, the Lord of the Dance, first performed the Dance of Bliss – the “Anandatandava” This dance portrays the cyclical nature of the universe reflected by the cyclical nature of daily life as experienced by individual souls

Another is that when the Gods and demons churned the ocean together to obtain ambrosia that lay in its depths, a pot of poison emerged Lord Shiva consumed this poison, saving both the Gods and mankind The poison lodged in the Lord’s throat, turning him blue To honor the savior of the world, Shivratri is celebrated.

One more legend is that as Goddess Ganga descended from heaven in full force, Lord Shiva caught her in his matted locks, and released her on to Earth as several streams This prevented destruction on Earth. As a tribute to Him, the Shivalinga is bathed on this auspicious night.

Also, it is believed that the formless God Sadashiv appeared in the form of a Lingodhbhav Moorthi at midnight Hence, people stay awake all night, offering prayers to the God

FASTING DURING SHIVRATRI IS A COMMON PRACTICE AMONG DEVOTEES FOR SEVERAL REASONS:

Spiritual purification: Fasting is believed to purify the body and mind, enabling devotees to meditate - focus more intensely on their prayers and spiritual practices during this auspicious occasion

Self-discipline: Fasting is an exercise in selfdiscipline and self-control It helps devotees develop restraint over their physical desires and strengthens their determination

Seeking blessings: Fasting is often seen as a way to seek blessings from Lord Shiva Devotees believe that by abstaining from food and other worldly pleasures, they can express their devotion and receive divine grace

Symbolic significance: Fasting symbolizes sacrifice and penance in Hinduism By foregoing food and other comforts, devotees demonstrate their dedication to Lord Shiva and their willingness to make sacrifices for spiritual growth

Health benefits: Some people also fast for health reasons, as intermittent fasting has been associated with various health benefits such as improved metabolism, weight management, and detoxification

Overall, fasting during Shivratri is considered a way to deepen one's spiritual connection with Lord Shiva and to seek his blessings for spiritual progress and well-being.

Fasting during Shivratri can be a spiritually enriching experience, but it's important to approach it with mindfulness and care for your health.

SHIVARATRI RITUALS

The rituals observed during Shivratri may vary based on regional customs and personal preferences, but here are some common rituals associated with the festival:

1.

Fasting (Vrat): Many devotees observe a fast on Shivratri as a mark of devotion and purification Fasting typically involves abstaining from food and sometimes even water for the entire day or specific periods

2.

Abhishekam (ritual bathing of the Shiva Lingam): Devotees perform abhishekam, the ritual bathing of the Shiva Lingam, with water, milk, yogurt, honey, ghee, and other sacred substances Each of these offerings holds symbolic significance and is believed to purify the soul and bring blessings

3.

5. Nightlong vigil (Jaagran): Many devotees stay awake throughout the night, engaging in prayers, singing bhajans (devotional songs), and listening to stories and discourses related to Lord Shiva.

Offering Bilva leaves: Bilva leaves, also known as bel patra, are considered sacred to Lord Shiva Devotees offer these leaves to the Shiva Lingam along with other offerings during prayers and rituals

4.

Chanting of mantras and prayers: Devotees recite various mantras, prayers, and hymns dedicated to Lord Shiva throughout the day and night. The most common mantra associated with Shiva is "Om Namah Shivaya "

6 Visiting temples: Devotees visit Shiva temples to offer prayers and seek blessings Special pujas and ceremonies are conducted at temples during Shivratri

7. Meditation and introspection: Shivratri is considered an auspicious time for meditation and introspection Devotees often spend time in quiet contemplation, reflecting on the significance of Lord Shiva in their lives and seeking spiritual growth

8. Charity and acts of kindness: Many people engage in charitable activities such as feeding the poor, donating to the needy, and performing acts of kindness as a way of expressing devotion and compassion

9. Reading and listening to Shiva-related scriptures: Devotees may read or listen to scriptures and stories related to Lord Shiva, such as the Shiva Purana, during Shivratri as a means of deepening their understanding and reverence for the deity

10. Breaking the fast: The fast is typically broken the morning after Shivratri with a simple meal or prasad (blessed food) offered to Lord Shiva This marks the end of the fasting period and is often celebrated with family and friends

During Shivratri, devotees often observe certain restrictions or "don'ts" as part of their spiritual practice. Here are some common things that are generally avoided during Shivratri:

Consumption of non-vegetarian food: Devotees usually refrain from consuming non-vegetarian food during Shivratri as a mark of respect for Lord Shiva, who is often associated with vegetarianism.

Consumption of alcohol and intoxicants: Alcohol and intoxicants are typically avoided during Shivratri, as they are considered impure and inhibit spiritual practices

Smoking: Smoking is generally discouraged during Shivratri, as it goes against the principles of purity and self-discipline associated with the festival

Negative thoughts and speech: Devotees try to maintain a positive and peaceful mindset during Shivratri, avoiding negative thoughts, gossip, and harsh speech

Engaging in worldly activities: Many devotees avoid engaging in worldly activities such as shopping, entertainment, and socializing during Shivratri Instead, they focus on spiritual practices and rituals dedicated to Lord Shiva

Overindulgence: Overeating and indulging in rich or heavy foods are generally avoided during Shivratri Devotees prefer to consume simple, sattvic (pure) foods that are easily digestible

Excessive sleep: Some devotees stay awake throughout the night on Shivratri, engaging in prayers, meditation, and other spiritual activities Excessive sleep is therefore avoided to fully immerse oneself in the spiritual significance of the festival.

Wasting time: Shivratri is considered an auspicious occasion for spiritual growth and self-reflection

Devotees try to avoid wasting time on frivolous activities and instead utilize the day for meaningful spiritual practices

Neglecting personal hygiene: Maintaining personal hygiene is important during Shivratri as it reflects purity of body and mind Devotees take care to bathe, wear clean clothes, and maintain cleanliness throughout the day

Disrespecting religious sentiments: It's important to show respect for the religious sentiments of others during Shivratri. Avoid mocking or disrespecting religious practices and beliefs associated with the festival

These "don'ts" help devotees maintain a sense of purity, discipline, and reverence during Shivratri, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the spiritual significance of the festival.

SHIVA LINGA

The Linga Purana also indicates that on this day Shiva took the form of the Lingam, a column of light with no beginning and no end to signify His infinite existence.

Symbolism: The Shiva Linga represents the formless aspect of Lord Shiva, known as Shiva's transcendent and immutable nature It symbolizes the divine power of creation, preservation, and destruction.

Shape and structure: The Linga is typically depicted as a cylindrical or oval-shaped stone, often set on a pedestal called the yoni, representing the feminine creative energy. The shape of the Linga is said to represent the cosmic pillar or axis mundi, the center of the universe.

Attributes: The Shiva Linga is often depicted with other attributes of Lord Shiva, such as the crescent moon on the top, the third eye representing wisdom and knowledge, the snake around the Linga representing Kundalini energy, and the trident (trishula) symbolizing the three fundamental aspects of existencecreation, preservation, and destruction.

Worship: The Shiva Linga is worshipped by devotees in temples, homes, and sacred sites dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees offer prayers, flowers, water, milk, honey, and other sacred substances to the Linga as a mark of reverence and devotion.

Significance: Worship of the Shiva Linga is believed to bestow blessings, protection, and spiritual upliftment upon devotees. It is also considered a means of attaining liberation (moksha) from the cycle of birth and death.

Philosophical significance: The Shiva Linga represents the union of Purusha (consciousness) and Prakriti (matter), symbolizing the inseparable relationship between the transcendental and the manifest aspects of reality.

Types of Lingas: There are various types of Shiva Lingas, including Swayambhu Lingas (selfmanifested), Spatika Lingas (crystal), Parad Lingas (mercury), and Banalingas (stone Lingas found in riverbeds). Each type is believed to possess unique spiritual qualities and significance.

Mantras

On Shivratri, devotees chant various mantras dedicated to Lord Shiva to seek his blessings and invoke his divine presence.

Here are some commonly chanted mantras on Shivratri:

Om Namah Shivaya

This is the most popular and widely recited mantra dedicated to Lord Shiva. It translates to "I bow to Shiva" and is considered highly auspicious for meditation and devotion.

Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra

Also known as the "Great Death-conquering Mantra," this powerful mantra is believed to bestow health, longevity, and protection. It is especially chanted for overcoming physical, mental, and emotional ailments.

Om Tryambakam Yajamahe Sugandhim Pushtivardhanam Urvarukamiva Bandhanan

Mrityor Mukshiya Maamritat

Shiva Gayatri Mantra

This mantra is a variation of the traditional Gayatri Mantra, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is chanted to invoke Shiva's divine wisdom and blessings.

Om Tatpurushaya Vidmahe

Mahadevaya Dhimahi

Tanno Rudrah Prachodayat

Shiva Dhyan Mantra

This mantra is chanted during meditation to focus the mind and invoke the presence of Lord Shiva.

Karacharana Kritham Vaakkaayajam

Karmajam Vaa

Shravananayanajam Vaa Maanasam Vaa

Aparadham

Vihitham Avihitham Vaa Sarvametat Kshamasva

Mantras

Rudra Gayatri Mantra

This mantra is dedicated to Rudra, a fierce aspect of Lord Shiva, and is chanted for protection and liberation.

Om Tatpurushaaya Vidmahe

Mahaadevaaya Dheemahi

Tanno Rudrah Prachodayaat

Shiva Ashtakam

This is a set of eight stanzas praising Lord Shiva's qualities and attributes. It is often recited with devotion on Shivratri.

Prabhum Prananatham Vibhum

Vishwanatham

Jagannatham Sadasivanishkam Namami

Shiva Stotram

Various stotras (hymns) dedicated to Lord Shiva are chanted on Shivratri, such as the Shiva Tandava Stotram, Lingashtakam, and Shiva Panchakshari Stotram.

These mantras are chanted with devotion and reverence during the auspicious occasion of Shivratri to seek Lord Shiva's blessings, protection, and spiritual upliftment.

The four parts of Shivaratri night

These four parts of Shivaratri night hold deep spiritual significance for devotees, providing opportunities for devotion, purification, and spiritual growth. Each part is marked by specific rituals and practices aimed at honoring Lord Shiva and seeking his blessings.

Here are the four parts of Shivaratri night:

These offerings are made with sincerity and devotion, seeking the grace and blessings of Lord Shiva during the auspicious occasion of Shivaratri.

Part One of Shivaratri night: Part One of Shivaratri night: Offerings

Evening (Pradosha Kaal):

The evening marks the beginning of Shivaratri celebrations. Devotees usually visit temples in the evening to offer prayers and perform rituals dedicated to Lord Shiva. The evening is considered auspicious for performing puja (worship) and abhishekam (ritual bathing) of the Shiva Lingam.

Evening (Pradosha Kaal):

Flowers: Fresh flowers, especially white flowers like jasmine and lotus, are commonly offered to Lord Shiva as a symbol of purity and devotion.

Bilva leaves: Bilva leaves, also known as bel patra, hold great significance in Shiva worship. They are offered to the Shiva Lingam during prayers and rituals.

Fruits: Offerings of fresh fruits such as bananas, coconuts, and seasonal fruits are made to Lord Shiva as a gesture of gratitude and devotion

Incense: Devotees burn incense sticks or dhoop (aromatic resin) as an offering to create a fragrant atmosphere during worship.

The four parts of Shivaratri night

Part Two of Shivaratri night: Part Two of Shivaratri night: Offerings

Night (Nishita Kaal):

The night is the most important part of Shivaratri, as it is believed to be the time when Lord Shiva performs his cosmic dance known as the Tandava. Devotees often stay awake throughout the night, engaging in prayers, chanting of mantras, singing bhajans (devotional songs), and listening to discourses about Lord Shiva. Many devotees also perform jaagran (nightlong vigil) during this time, staying awake to honor Lord Shiva.

Night (Nishita Kaal):

Abhishekam: Devotees perform abhishekam, the ritual bathing of the Shiva Lingam, with water, milk, yogurt, honey, ghee, and other sacred substances. Each of these offerings holds symbolic significance and is believed to purify the soul and bring blessings.

Vibhuti (sacred ash): Vibhuti, symbolic of destruction and purification, is offered to Lord Shiva during prayers and rituals as a mark of devotion

Prasad: Devotees prepare special food items such as kheer (sweet rice pudding), fruits, and sweets as prasad and offer them to Lord Shiva. This prasad is later distributed among devotees as a blessed offering.

Deepam (lamp): Lighting lamps or candles in front of the Shiva Lingam is a common offering made during Shivaratri night to dispel darkness and ignorance

The four parts of Shivaratri night

Part Three of Shivaratri night: Part Three of Shivaratri night: Offerings

Pre-dawn (Brahma Muhurta): The predawn period, known as Brahma Muhurta, is considered highly auspicious for spiritual practices. It is believed that prayers and rituals performed during this time have greater potency. Devotees wake up early in the morning to take a bath and offer prayers to Lord Shiva before sunrise. The predawn period is often spent in meditation and introspection, preparing the mind for spiritual awakening.

Pre-dawn (Brahma Muhurta):

Water: Offering water to Lord Shiva during the pre-dawn period is considered highly auspicious.

Devotees sprinkle water on the Shiva Lingam as a symbol of purification and renewal

Milk: Offering milk to Lord Shiva during the pre-dawn hours symbolizes purity, nourishment, and devotion.

Chandan (sandalwood paste): Applying sandalwood paste on the Shiva Lingam is a traditional offering o

The four parts of Shivaratri night

Part four of Shivaratri night: Part four of Shivaratri night: Offerings

Dawn (Usha Kaal): Dawn marks the end of Shivaratri night and the beginning of a new day. Devotees continue their prayers and rituals, offering special prayers to Lord Shiva as the sun rises. The fast observed during Shivaratri is often broken at dawn with a simple meal or prasad (blessed food) offered to Lord Shiva.

Dawn (Usha Kaal): Arati (ritual waving of lamps): Devotees perform arati to Lord Shiva at dawn, waving lit lamps or camphor flames in a circular motion to honor the deity.

Naivedyam (food offering): Devotees offer freshly prepared food items such as fruits, sweets, and cooked rice as naivedyam to Lord Shiva during dawn prayers. Prayer and gratitude: The dawn prayers are often accompanied by heartfelt prayers and expressions of gratitude for the blessings received from Lord Shiva throughout the night.

Shiva Aarti along with its English translation:

Om Jai Shiv Omkara

ओम जय शव कारा, हर शव कारा। ा, वण, सदाशव, अागी धारा॥

Om Jai Shiv Omkara, Hara Shiv Omkara Brahma, Vishnu, Sadashiva, Ardhangi Dhara

(Chant the above lines with devotion, praising Lord Shiva, who is the essence of the primordial sound OM. He is the destroyer of evil and the bestower of blessings. He is known by various names such as Brahma, Vishnu, Sadashiva, and is the embodiment of the divine trinity.)

एकनन चतरानन पचानन राज। हसासन गड़ासन वषवाहन साज॥

Ekanan Chaturanan Panchanan Raje Hansasan Garudasan Vrishvahan Saje (Oh Lord Shiva, You have one face, four faces, or even five faces. You are the king of all. You sit on a swan, eagle, or bull.)

दो हस का वाहन, जटा क शलधारी। करत सदा शन काट मोह वचारी॥

Do Hanso Ka Vahan, Jata Ke Trishuldhari Karte Sada Shatrun Kaati Mohi Vichari (You ride on a vehicle of swans and hold the trident in your matted hair. You always protect your devotees and destroy their enemies.)

ादक सत नाम को, याव मन यही। तही तो सकट काट मट सब पीरही॥

Brahmadik Sanatana Ma Ko, Dhyave Man Yahi Tehee To Sankat Kate Mitaye Sab Peerihi (Those who meditate on your name, which is chanted by Brahma and other sages, all their troubles and sorrows vanish.)

जय शव कारा, हर शव कारा। ा, वण, सदाशव, अागी धारा॥

Om Jai Shiv Omkara, Hara Shiv Omkara Brahma, Vishnu, Sadashiva, Ardhangi Dhara (Chant the refrain again, glorifying Lord Shiva and the divine trinity.)

दो भज चार चतभज, दसभज अत सोह। भवन मन मोहन प, तह आद समर पह॥

Do Bhuj Chaar Chaturbhuj, Dashabhuja Ati Sohe Tribhuvan Man Mohan Roop, Tuhi Aadi Sumiro Pahi (You have two, four, or even ten arms, and your form is enchanting to the three worlds. I meditate on you, the primordial being.)

गण वामी, जी क दास जनता, दनह क भ, व सदा पजता॥ Trigun Swami Ji Ke Dasa Janata, Dinahin Ki Bhakti, Ve Sada Pujata (Oh Lord of the three worlds, your devotees worship you with devotion day and night.)

जय शव कारा, हर शव कारा। ा, वण, सदाशव, अागी धारा॥ Om Jai Shiv Omkara, Hara Shiv Omkara Brahma, Vishnu, Sadashiva, Ardhangi Dhara (Chant the refrain once more, expressing reverence for Lord Shiva and the divine trinity.)

ताबर पीताबर बघबर अग। सनकादक ादक भतदबर साग॥ Shwetambar Peetambar Baghambar Ange Sanakadi Brahmadi Bhootadhambar Sange (You wear white, yellow, or tiger skin garments. You are accompanied by sages like Sanaka and others, Brahma, and other beings.)

हाथ जो गह, अबजासोय, सोह शल सोह भाल॥ Haath Jo Gahin, Ambe Soye Sohe Trishul Sohe Bhale (You hold the divine mother Amba's hand, and you look resplendent with the trident and the crescent moon on your forehead.)

जटा म गगा बहाय, मगवज को मलाय। भाला चमा सोह, मख म दम धराय॥ Jata Mein Ganga Bahaye, Mrigadhvaja Ko Milaye Bhala Chandrama Sohe, Mukh Mein Damru Dharaaye (Ganga flows from your matted hair, and the deer flag adorns your head. The crescent moon shines on your forehead, and you hold the damru (drum) in your hand.)

जय शव कारा, हर शव कारा। ा, वण, सदाशव, अागी धारा॥

Om Jai Shiv Omkara, Hara Shiv Omkara Brahma, Vishnu, Sadashiva, Ardhangi Dhara (Chant the refrain, offering obeisance to Lord Shiva and the divine trinity.)

ादक सत नाम को, याव मन यही। तही तो सकट काट मट सब पीरही॥

Brahmadik Sanatana Ma Ko, Dhyave Man Yahi Tehee To Sankat Kate Mitaye Sab Peerihi (Those who meditate on your name, which is chanted by Brahma and other sages, all their troubles and sorrows vanish.)

जय शव कारा, हर शव कारा। ा, वण, सदाशव, अागी धारा॥

Om Jai Shiv Omkara, Hara Shiv Omkara Brahma, Vishnu, Sadashiva, Ardhangi Dhara (Chant the refrain one last time, expressing reverence for Lord Shiva and the divine trinity.)

Natraja Media specializes in digital and print media. Our services include graphic design, social media posts, video editing, voiceovers and much more. Our publications are available to view online at issuu.com.

For more information contact us at:

Email:natrajamedia@gmail.com