Considered the destroyer amongst the Holy Trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh, Bholenath is not just fearsome. He is also known to be the most benevolent to His followers. He is worshipped by all, be it humans, animals or demons. One of His most famous followers was Ravana, who worshipped Him ardently. Lord Shiva bestows His blessings upon whoever worships Him selflessly. He is easily pleased.
Shiva is completed by Shakti. Lord Shiva represents consciousness while Shakti embodies energy and power. When the two come together, they form the universe. Lord Shiva holds a trident which is represents Ishwara, Purusha and Prakriti. Ishwara is the Almighty, Purusha means consciousness while Prakriti is Mother Nature. Shiva and Shakti are inseparable and often worshipped together as Ardhnarishwara. Shiva is the masculine side and Shakti embodies the feminine aspect. One is incomplete without the other.
Maha Shivratri is the festival dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to some legends, it is the celebration of the marriage of Lord Shiva with Goddess Parvati. It is also believed that on this night, Lord Shiva performed Tandava, the dance of creation, preservation and destruction.
Follow these simple steps to ensure the blessings of Lord Shiva:
- Offer water mixed with gangajal on Shivling to attain inner peace.
- Offer grape juice on Shivling to remove hurdles at workplace.
- Offer rice powder on Shivling to get rid of debts.
- Offer sugarcane juice on Shivling to enjoy good health and to avoid enmity.
- Offer coconut juice on Shivling to have a happy and satisfied life.
- Offer sandalwood paste (chandan) on Shivling to enjoy the grace of Lakshmi.
- Offer lime juice on Shivling for recovery from illness and to overcome the fear of death.
Note: Offering something has nothing to do with quantity. You can offer one spoonful of milk or juice or any offering and distribute the rest among the poor.