Sawan: What is the significance of Jal Abhishek. Rules for offering water to Shivling

 

Significance of Jalabhishek of Lord Shiva in Sawan 

What is the significance of Jal Abhishek?

According to the Shiv Purana, the churning of the ocean took place in Sawan month, in which Lord Shiva saved the entire creation/universe by drinking poison, but due to this halal poison, he became uncomfortable and feeling  unbearable pain arose in his throat.

To reduce the effect of poison, all the deities offered water to him. This is the reason why there is a ritual to perform Jalabhishek of Shivling.

It is believed that if Jalabhishek is performed on Shivling on auspicious dates in Sawan, then all the sorrows, faults and diseases of a person go away.

 Rules for offering water to Shivling

Vessel for offering water - It is said in the scriptures that copper, bronze or silver vessel is considered best for offering water to Shivling. Use brass or silver utensils to offer milk there.

Correct Direction - While offering water to the Shivling, the seeker should face north. It is believed that by performing Jalabhishek facing this direction, blessings of both Mother Parvati and Shiva are received.

How to offer water -  While offering water to shivling, make a thin stream of water and while offering water chant the mantra-om namah shivay.

Don't use this thing - Conch shell is prohibited in the worship of Shiva Shambhu, in this case don't use conch shell to offer water to Shivling. As per the  Shivpuran, Lord Shiva killed a demon named Shankhchud. It is believed that the conch shells are made from the bones of the same demon Shankhchud. Hence,water should not be offered on Shivling with conch shell.

Benefits and Spiritual Significance of Jalabhishek

Sawan Jalabhishek Niyam holds immense spiritual significance and is believed to bestow several benefits upon the devotees. Here are some of the key benefits associated with this sacred ritual:

Purification of Mind and Body: The act of performing the ritual helps in purifying the mind, body, and soul, enabling devotees to attain spiritual clarity and inner peace.

Blessings of Lord Shiva: By offering prayers and performing the abhishek, devotees seek the blessings of Lord Shiva, who is believed to grant protection, strength, and wisdom.

Removal of Obstacles: Sawan Jalabhishek Niyam is thought to remove obstacles and challenges from one's life, fostering a path of growth and success.

Attainment of Moksha: Devotees believe that by performing this sacred ritual with utmost devotion and sincerity, they can accelerate their spiritual journey and achieve liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Sawan Jalabhishek Niyam is a deeply revered ritual that offers devotees a profound spiritual experience and a chance to connect with the divine. By following the prescribed guidelines and performing the ritual with pure devotion, devotees can seek blessings, experience inner transformation, and foster a deeper connection with Lord Shiva.

Remember, Sawan Jalabhishek Niyam is not merely a ritual but an opportunity to embark on a sacred journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth. May this guide serve as your companion, guiding you through the intricacies of this divine practice.

Worship Lord Shiva like this in Sawan

• Wake up early in the morning and first take a bath.

• After this, offer water and Gangajal on the Shivling in the Shiva temple or at home.

• After this, offer Akshat(Unbroken Rice), white flowers, white sandalwood, dhatura, cow's milk, incense, panchamrit to Bholenath.

• While offering the ingredients, chant Om Namah Shivaya 

• You must  offer Belpatra on Shivling.

• Chant the mantra 'Om Namah Shivay' after worshiping Bholenath.

•  Mahamrityunjaya Mantra can be  chanted 108 times 

• After this, pray to Lord Shiva  to fulfill your wish.