Maha Shivaratri at Manidweepa
MARCH 8, 2024
We can begin to understand the Glory of Lord Shiva when one understands his unbounded love, infinite compassion and endless Grace. He is revered as the Lord who is easily pleased. The Vedas also go on to explain that the Lord has one extreme addiction. What affliction could possible take root in the heart of the Almighty?
The answer is that the Lord cannot control His habit to help those in need and to rush to the aid of the devout.
Amma’s Maha ShivaRatri Message
During this year’s Maha Sivaratri, , the Great Lord, Maha Dev will be worshiped at Manidweepa in the very auspicious form of the 5-faced Marakatam Jade Lingam, which has been enlivened by the performance of Ati Rudram ceremonies.
From early in the morning until the late hours of night, Lord Shiva will be worshiped through a number of very traditional and devotional ways. Both Sri Rudra Homam as well as Sri Rudra Abhishekam will be performed to promote worldwide harmony and healing through individual peace, prosperity and spiritual elevation.
Shivaratri and the Significance of Lord Shiva
Shivaratri is a holy festival dedicated to Lord Shiva, observed on the 13th night or 14th day of the Hindu lunar month of Phalguna, usually falling in February or March, this festival holds immense spiritual significance for devotees.
The Divine Nature of Lord Shiva
Lord Shiva is revered as Mahadeva, the deity of destruction, transformation, and regeneration. In Hindu philosophy, destruction is seen as an integral step in the cycle of creation, preservation, and destruction. Lord Shiva represents the embodiment of purity and consciousness, worshiped as the Lord of Yoga and Meditation. His presence transcends all material forms and is pure consciousness itself.
Shivaratri Observances and Practices
On Shivaratri, devotees observe a fast and spend the night in prayer and meditation, either at home or at Shiva temples. One of the most significant rituals performed on this day is the Rudra Abhishekam, where milk, honey, and other sacred substances are poured over a Shiva Linga, symbolizing the purification of the mind and body and the seeking of blessings from Lord Shiva.
Sri Rudram, a Hindu hymn dedicated to Lord Shiva, holds great importance during Shivaratri. It is a powerful invocation of Lord Shiva, extolling his many divine qualities and attributes. The chanting of the Sri Rudram invokes the blessings of Lord Shiva and is believed to bring peace, prosperity, and spiritual growth to those who recite it with devotion and intention.
The Importance of Shivaratri
Shivaratri is a day to reflect on the values of devotion, spiritual knowledge, and selflessness, embodied by Lord Shiva. Through the celebration of this festival, devotees strive to purify their souls and reach a higher state of consciousness. The observances of this day aim to connect with the transcendent aspect of Lord Shiva and seek spiritual knowledge and liberation.
The Rudra Abhishekam, the Sri Rudram, and other rituals performed on Shivaratri hold immense spiritual significance for devotees. They provide an opportunity to delve into the inner self, find peace, and connect with the divine. Through these rituals, devotees recognize Lord Shiva’s presence in their lives and seek his protection, leading them closer to the path of self-realization and liberation.
Rudra Homa: A Sacred Offering to Lord Shiva
Rudra Homa is another spiritual offering performed in honor of Lord Shiva. Through the chanting of powerful mantras, offerings of sacred ingredients into the fire, and visualization of Lord Shiva, the devotee transcends their limited individual ego and unites with the infinite, unchanging nature of the self. The smoke and fire symbolize the transformation and purification of the mind and soul, burning away negative karma and elevating the soul towards spiritual growth.
Shivaratri and its associated practices, including the Rudra Abhishekam, Sri Rudram, and Rudra Homa, hold great spiritual significance for devotees of Lord Shiva. These observances provide a path towards self-realization and union with the divine, helping one connect with the transcendent presence of Lord Shiva and attain spiritual knowledge and liberation.
Shivaratri pujas
8 Mar, 2024
