Guest guest Posted March 5, 2008 Report Share Posted March 5, 2008 Dear Members, In past noticed many Lord Shiva bhakts in this group.....would request them....to share any astro_significance of this Maha_Shiva_Ratri.....would appreciate...and would like to hear more about it...... Anything small or big...no matter ...correct or not...do not bother...just share..... With regards, Sreeram_Srinivas Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 5, 2008 Report Share Posted March 5, 2008 Some observations whcih may not be astrological. We humans celebrate a few festivals on days which are astrologically very "heavy". Diwali is celebrated on Amavasya day when the Sun is also in its sign of debilitation. Thus both the Luminaries are weak. Mahashivratri is celebrated on the 14th day ( 1 day before Amavasya ) when Sun is in the 7th house from its own sign- LEO, thus weak.--- On Wed, 5/3/08, sreeram srinivas <sreeram64 wrote: sreeram srinivas <sreeram64 Mahashiva_Ratri Date: Wednesday, 5 March, 2008, 1:18 PM Dear Members,In past noticed many Lord Shiva bhakts in this group.....would requestthem....to share any astro_significance of thisMaha_Shiva_Ratri. ....would appreciate.. .and would like to hear moreabout it......Anything small or big...no matter ...correct or not...do notbother...just share.....With regards,Sreeram_Srinivas Why delete messages? Unlimited storage is just a click away. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 5, 2008 Report Share Posted March 5, 2008 This is the Info that i have received from a Friend .Please read and revert . Bam Bam Bhole . A Sivarathri could not be as special as this. Saturn in the Simmam and Sun and Moon in the Kumbam with Rahu and Kethu alignment on the same two houses makes a big event once in 120 years. Saturn is very close to earth now and looking at the event of Sivarathri which is that moon and sun falling into the vessel of Kumbam to makes this world dark. Siva and His actions are to be watched. Such an intense dark to be happening to this world and Saturn look is always trivial to that event. There coul not be happening something just like that in this universe without reasoning. Only, we are not aware of this event reason. Hence, your prayer to Lord Siva is meaningful on this occasion. Noticing, we have two calendars: Vaakyam and Kanitham. We MTS follow Vaakyam. According to old writings, according to Guru Rajrathna Bhattar, a SIva rathri on purna amavasai (new moon) is not observed in tradition. Hence, he decided to move the date one earlier and that happen to be Pradosam as well. Hence The Sivarathri in Sri Meenakshi Temple is moved to March 5th Wednesday at 5 PM with Pradosam first and then Sivarathri follows at 7PM till 4AM next day. .. Saattvik picture of Lord Shiva Shivratri is the time when Shiva takes a rest. Shiva rests for one 'prahar' (three hours) of the night. This 'prahar' is referred to as the Shivratri. When Lord Shiva takes rest, the function of 'Shivtatva' (Shiva Principle) ceases, i.e. Lord Shiva goes into a meditative state. Shiva's meditative state is the time when He is engrossed in His own spiritual practice. During that time, the 'Shivtatva' does not accept any tamogun (most base of the 3 elements in us - sattva, raja & tama) or any halahal (venom churned from the ocean) coming from the Universe. As a result, the ratio of halahal or the pressure of the negative energies increases. For protection from this pressure, things like 'bilva patra', white flowers, 'rudraksha' beads etc are offered to Lord Shiva. These things attract the 'Shivtatva' from the atmosphere, thus providing protection from the increasing effect of the negative energies. The Eart is a gross object. Gross objects have very low velocities i.e. they require more time to cover a specific distance in space. Gods on the other hand, are subtle hence they are capable of traversing space within a few seconds. That is why one year on the earth is equivalent to just one day of heaven. - Brahma-tatva (18.02.2004, 3.05 p.m.) Science in the worship of Lord Shiva on Mahashivratri The function of the 'Shivpindi' 1. Emitting waves of Knowledge, Devotion and renunciation Predominantly 'sattva' waves of knowledge, 'raja' waves of devotion and 'tama' waves of Renunciation (Vairagya) are emitted by the 'Shivpindi'. During Mahashivratri, the emission increases by 30 percent. 2. Emission of subtle vibrations of chaitanya, bliss and peace The 'Shivpindi' emits subtle vibrations of chaitanya, bliss and peace. During the Mahashivratri, the emission increases by 25 percent. This helps purify the subtle-body of one who worships the Shivpindi on this day. The 'sun' or the 'moon' channels in the body get activated as per necessity. The capacity to absorb the sattvaguna and chaitanya also increases. Due to the presence of the unmanifest Shiva principle in the Shivpindi and the vibrations of peace emitted, the Shivpindi remains cool and the mind too experiences peace. Worship of Shivpindi with devotion, activates the dormant Shiva principle. An offering of puffed rice and milk reaches Lord Shiva in the subtle form. 3. Receiving the 'tarak or marak tatva (element)' as required There is a confluence of the manifest and the unmanifest elements along with the 'tarak and marak tatva' in the Shivpindi. (Tarak = Saviour; Marak = Destroyer). That is how worshipers receive the required element. The temperature of the Shivpindi increases due to the emission of the marak tatva and there one experiences bliss. Similarly, when the tarak tatva is emitted, the temperature drops and one experiences peace and bliss. Bilvapatra (Bel leaves) Bilvapatra contains 2% Shiva tatva. By offering bilvapatra to the Shivpindi on Mahashivratri, the manifest Shiva tatva near the stalk of the bilvapatra gets activated. Due to this, waves of chaitanya as well as Shiva tatva are emitted by the bilvapatra. The bilvapatra attracts 20% of the Shiva tatva present in the Shivpindi towards itself. By immersing this bilvapatra in water or by placing it in grains, the Shiva tatva present in the bilvapatra is transmitted to them. The Shiva tatva in the bilvapatra is activated to a larger extent on Mondays when it transmits 10% of the Shiva tatva and sattvikta. On other days only 1% of the Shiva tatva is activated in the bilvapatra. Bilvarchan Offering bilvapatra to the Shivpindi and chanting the mantra 'Om Namah Shivaya' with each offering is known as bilvarchan. Continue offering the bilvapatra until the pindi is completely covered. Offer the bilvapatra from the lower part of the pindi. By starting from the feet of the idol, more benefit is derived and the idol can be covered completely. - Brahma-tatva (22.02.2004, 9.30 p.m.) Chanting on Mahashivratri 'Om Namah Shivaya' Om represents an unmanifest state beyond the 3 gunas (elements of sattva, raja & tama). We bow to Lord Shiva, from whom Om was created. 1. The word Shiva has been derived by reversing the letters of the word vash. Vash means to enlighten; thus the one who enlightens is Shiva. He remains radiant and also illuminates the universe. 2. He is the auspicious and prosperity-bestowin g principle. Some unique attributes 1. Physical attributes a. Ganga : Just as the sun is the focal point of the solar system and the soul that of the body, the focal point of divine consciousness (chaitanya) in every object and pure particles (pavitrakas) is ga-aum. The flow from which ga-aum originates is gan gaha = Ganga. Ga-aum flows from Shiva's head. This is called the descent of the Ganga from Shiva's head. Since the river Ganga has a fraction of the principle of the spiritual Ganga, no matter how polluted it becomes, its purity is perpetually retained. Hence, when compared to any other water in the world, the water from the Ganga is the purest. This is realised not only by those who can perceive the subtle dimension but also by scientific researchers. b. Moon : Shiva adorns the chandra (moon) on His forehead. The point where the three frequencies - affection (mamata), mercifulness (kshamashilata) and motherly love (vatsalya) originate is referred to as the chandra (moon). Thus, one can conclude that chandrama (the moon principle) is the state in which the three attributes of affection, mercifulness and motherly love are present. c. Third eye : Shankar is three-eyed, i.e. He can perceive events of the past, present and future.According to the science of Yoga the third eye means the Sushumna nadi (channel). d. Serpent : One of the Names of Lord Shankar is Bhujanga-patihari. Bhujang means a serpent or pure particles (pavitrakas) , pati means the nurturer and hari means one with a garland around His neck. Bhujangapatihari thus means the One who nurtures pure particles and wears them like a garland. Various serpents represent groups of pure particles. Though externally they appear like serpents, internally they are a kind of ladder. To make spiritual progress one has to climb up holding onto the tail of the serpent. Lord Shankar adorns serpents at nine points on His body - one on the head, one around the neck, one on each arm, one on each wrist, one around the waist and one on each thigh. This implies that His body is comprised of pure particles or that serpents of pure particles play all over the body of Lord Shankar who has the universe as His form. 2. Spiritual attributes a. One performing severe austerities and the great yogi Shiva is always seated in a bandha or a mudra. His temperature rises due to heat generated by performing severe austerities; Hence, He uses the Ganga, the moon and serpents which endow a cooling effect and lives on the snow-clad Kailas mountain. b. Short tempered If someone disturbs His meditation the radiance generated by spiritual practice will be suddenly expelled and whoever is in front of Him will not be able to tolerate it, and gets destroyed. This is referred to as being 'reduced to ashes by Shankar's opening of the third eye'. c. One who is willing to undergo any distress for the sake of imparting happiness to others The poison generated during the churning of the celestial ocean (samudramanthan) was burning the entire Universe but no deity came forward to accept it. At that time Shiva drank that poison and saved the world from destruction. d. One who has both, deities and demons, as His worshippers Neither did demons like Banasur, Ravan, etc. worship Lord Vishnu nor did Lord Vishnu bestow any boon upon any demon. However, they worshipped Lord Shiva who blessed them. e. Master of the spirits Since Lord Shiva is the master of spirits, His worshippers are generally not possessed by them. About Maha Shivaratri Maha Shivaratri is celebrated throughout the country; it is particularly popular in Uttar Pradesh. Maha Shivratri falls on the 14th day of the dark half of 'Margasirsa' (February-March) . The name means " the night of Shiva " . The ceremonies take place chiefly at night. This is a festival observed in honour of Lord Shiva and it is believed that on this day Lord Shiva was married to Parvati. On this festival people worship 'Shiva - the Destroyer'. This night marks the night when Lord Shiva danced the 'Tandav'. In Andhra Pradesh, pilgrims throng the Sri Kalahasteshwara Temple at Kalahasti and the Bharamarambha Malikarjunaswamy Temple at Srisailam. About The Lord Shiva - the word meaning auspicious - is one of the Hindu Trinity, comprising of Lord Brahma, the creator, Lord Vishnu, the preserver and Lord Shiva or Mahesh, the Destroyer and Re-Producer of life. Shiva is known by many names like " Shankar " , " Mahesh " , " Bholenath " , " Neelakanth " , " Shambhu Kailasheshwar " , " Umanath " , " Nataraj " and others. For few people, Shiva is " Paramatman " , " Brahman " , the Absolute, but many more prefer to see Shiva as a personal God given to compassion for his worshippers, and the dispenser of both spiritual and material blessings. Related to the Absolute concept is Shiva as " Yoganath " meaning the Lord of Yoga, wherein he becomes teacher, path and goal. As such he is the " Adi Guru " or the Highest Guru of 'Sannyasins' who have renounced the world to attain the Absolute. He is the most sought-after deity amongst the Hindus and they pray to him as the god of immense large-heartedness who they believe grants all their wishes. Around him are weaved many interesting stories that reveal His magnanimous heart. Not only this, but these stories and legends also enrich the Indian culture and art. Time is invisible and formless. Therefore Mahakal Shiva, as per the Vedas, manifested himself as " LINGUM " to make mankind aware of the presence of Eternal Time. That day when Shiva manifested himself in the form of " Lingum " was the fourth day of the dark night in the month of 'Magha' i.e. February-March. Maha Shivratri continues to be celebrated forever and ever. The Story Of King Chitrabhanu In the Shanti Parva of the Mahabharata, Bhishma, whilst resting on the bed of arrows and discoursing on Dharma, refers to the observance of Maha Shivaratri by King Chitrabhanu. The story goes as follows - Once upon a time King Chitrabhanu of the Ikshvaku dynasty, who ruled over the whole of Jambudvipa, was observing a fast with his wife, it being the day of Maha Shivaratri. The sage Ashtavakra came on a visit to the court of the king. The sag asked the king the purpose of his observing the past. King Chitrabhanu explained that he had the gift of remembering the incidents of his previous birth. The king said to the sage that in his previous he was a hunter in Varanasi and his name was Suswara. His only livelihood was to kill and sell birds and animals. One day while roaming through forests in search of animals he was overtaken by the darkness of night. Unable to return home, he climbed a tree for shelter. It happened to be a Bael tree. He had shot a deer that day but had no time to take it home. So he bundled it up and tied it to a branch on the tree. As hunger and thirst tormented him, he was kept awake throughout the night. He shed profuse tears when he thought of his poor wife and children who were starving and anxiously waiting for his return. To pass away the time that night he engaged himself in plucking the Bael leaves and dropping them down onto the ground. The next day he returned home and sold the deer and then bought some food for himself and his family. The moment he was about to break his fast a stranger came to him, begging for food. He served the food first to stranger and then had his own. At the time of his death, he saw two messengers of Lord Shiva. They were sent down to conduct his soul to the abode of Lord Shiva. He learnt then for the first time of the great merit he had earned by the unconscious worship of Lord Shiva during the night of Shivaratri. The messengers told him that there was a Lingam at the bottom of the tree. The leaves I dropped fell on the Lingam. His tears, which had shed out of pure sorrow for his family, fell onto the Lingam and washed it and he had fasted all day and all night. Thus, he unconsciously worshiped the Lord. As the conclusion of the tale the King said that he lived in the abode of the Lord and enjoyed divine bliss for long ages and now he has reborn as Chitrabhanu. The Festivity People observe a strict fast on this day. Some devotees do not even take a drop of water and they keep vigil all night. The Shiva Lingam is worshipped throughout the night by washing it every three hours with milk, curd, honey, rose water, etc., whilst the chanting of the Mantra " Om Namah Shivaya " continues. Offerings of Bael leaves are made to the Lingam as Bael leaves are considered very sacred and it is said that Goddess Lakshmi resides in them. Hymns in praise of Lord Shiva, such as the " Shiva Mahimna Stotra " of Pushpadanta or Ravana's " Shiva Tandava Stotra " are sung with great fervour and devotion. People repeat the 'Panchakshara' Mantra, " Om Namah Shivaya " . He, who utters the names of Shiva during Shivratri, with perfect devotion and concentration, is freed from all sins. He reaches the abode of Shiva and lives there happily. He is liberated from the wheel of births and deaths. Many pilgrims dock to the places where there are Shiva temples. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 5, 2008 Report Share Posted March 5, 2008 Dearest Bunts, A Sivarathri could not be as special as this. Saturn in the Simmam and Sun and Moon in the Kumbam with Rahu and Kethu alignment on the same two houses makes a big event once in 120 years. Saturn is very close to earth now and looking at the event of Sivarathri which is that moon and sun falling into the vessel of Kumbam to makes this world dark. Siva and His actions are to be watched. Such an intense dark to be happening to this world and Saturn look is always trivial to that event. There coul not be happening something just like that in this universe without reasoning. Only, we are not aware of this event reason. Hence, your prayer to Lord Siva is meaningful on this occasion. Noticing, we have two calendars: Vaakyam and Kanitham. We MTS follow Vaakyam. According to old writings, according to Guru Rajrathna Bhattar, a SIva rathri on purna amavasai (new moon) is not observed in tradition. Hence, he decided to move the date one earlier and that happen to be Pradosam as well. Hence The Sivarathri in Sri Meenakshi Temple is moved to March 5th Wednesday at 5 PM with Pradosam first and then Sivarathri follows at 7PM till 4AM next day. .. Saattvik picture of Lord Shiva Shivratri is the time when Shiva takes a rest. Shiva rests for one 'prahar' (three hours) of the night. This 'prahar' is referred to as the Shivratri. When Lord Shiva takes rest, the function of 'Shivtatva' (Shiva Principle) ceases, i.e. Lord Shiva goes into a meditative state. Shiva's meditative state is the time when He is engrossed in His own spiritual practice. During that time, the 'Shivtatva' does not accept any tamogun (most base of the 3 elements in us - sattva, raja & tama) or any halahal (venom churned from the ocean) coming from the Universe. As a result, the ratio of halahal or the pressure of the negative energies increases. For protection from this pressure, things like 'bilva patra', white flowers, 'rudraksha' beads etc are offered to Lord Shiva. These things attract the 'Shivtatva' from the atmosphere, thus providing protection from the increasing effect of the negative energies. The Eart is a gross object. Gross objects have very low velocities i.e. they require more time to cover a specific distance in space. Gods on the other hand, are subtle hence they are capable of traversing space within a few seconds. That is why one year on the earth is equivalent to just one day of heaven. - Brahma-tatva (18.02.2004, 3.05 p.m.) Science in the worship of Lord Shiva on Mahashivratri The function of the 'Shivpindi' 1. Emitting waves of Knowledge, Devotion and renunciation Predominantly 'sattva' waves of knowledge, 'raja' waves of devotion and 'tama' waves of Renunciation (Vairagya) are emitted by the 'Shivpindi'. During Mahashivratri, the emission increases by 30 percent. 2. Emission of subtle vibrations of chaitanya, bliss and peace The 'Shivpindi' emits subtle vibrations of chaitanya, bliss and peace. During the Mahashivratri, the emission increases by 25 percent. This helps purify the subtle-body of one who worships the Shivpindi on this day. The 'sun' or the 'moon' channels in the body get activated as per necessity. The capacity to absorb the sattvaguna and chaitanya also increases. Due to the presence of the unmanifest Shiva principle in the Shivpindi and the vibrations of peace emitted, the Shivpindi remains cool and the mind too experiences peace. Worship of Shivpindi with devotion, activates the dormant Shiva principle. An offering of puffed rice and milk reaches Lord Shiva in the subtle form. 3. Receiving the 'tarak or marak tatva (element)' as required There is a confluence of the manifest and the unmanifest elements along with the 'tarak and marak tatva' in the Shivpindi. (Tarak = Saviour; Marak = Destroyer). That is how worshipers receive the required element. The temperature of the Shivpindi increases due to the emission of the marak tatva and there one experiences bliss. Similarly, when the tarak tatva is emitted, the temperature drops and one experiences peace and bliss. Bilvapatra (Bel leaves) Bilvapatra contains 2% Shiva tatva. By offering bilvapatra to the Shivpindi on Mahashivratri, the manifest Shiva tatva near the stalk of the bilvapatra gets activated. Due to this, waves of chaitanya as well as Shiva tatva are emitted by the bilvapatra. The bilvapatra attracts 20% of the Shiva tatva present in the Shivpindi towards itself. By immersing this bilvapatra in water or by placing it in grains, the Shiva tatva present in the bilvapatra is transmitted to them. The Shiva tatva in the bilvapatra is activated to a larger extent on Mondays when it transmits 10% of the Shiva tatva and sattvikta. On other days only 1% of the Shiva tatva is activated in the bilvapatra. Bilvarchan Offering bilvapatra to the Shivpindi and chanting the mantra 'Om Namah Shivaya' with each offering is known as bilvarchan. Continue offering the bilvapatra until the pindi is completely covered. Offer the bilvapatra from the lower part of the pindi. By starting from the feet of the idol, more benefit is derived and the idol can be covered completely. - Brahma-tatva (22.02.2004, 9.30 p.m.) Chanting on Mahashivratri 'Om Namah Shivaya' Om represents an unmanifest state beyond the 3 gunas (elements of sattva, raja & tama). We bow to Lord Shiva, from whom Om was created. 1. The word Shiva has been derived by reversing the letters of the word vash. Vash means to enlighten; thus the one who enlightens is Shiva. He remains radiant and also illuminates the universe. 2. He is the auspicious and prosperity-bestowin g principle. Some unique attributes 1. Physical attributes a. Ganga : Just as the sun is the focal point of the solar system and the soul that of the body, the focal point of divine consciousness (chaitanya) in every object and pure particles (pavitrakas) is ga-aum. The flow from which ga-aum originates is gan gaha = Ganga. Ga-aum flows from Shiva's head. This is called the descent of the Ganga from Shiva's head. Since the river Ganga has a fraction of the principle of the spiritual Ganga, no matter how polluted it becomes, its purity is perpetually retained. Hence, when compared to any other water in the world, the water from the Ganga is the purest. This is realised not only by those who can perceive the subtle dimension but also by scientific researchers. b. Moon : Shiva adorns the chandra (moon) on His forehead. The point where the three frequencies - affection (mamata), mercifulness (kshamashilata) and motherly love (vatsalya) originate is referred to as the chandra (moon). Thus, one can conclude that chandrama (the moon principle) is the state in which the three attributes of affection, mercifulness and motherly love are present. c. Third eye : Shankar is three-eyed, i.e. He can perceive events of the past, present and future.According to the science of Yoga the third eye means the Sushumna nadi (channel). d. Serpent : One of the Names of Lord Shankar is Bhujanga-patihari. Bhujang means a serpent or pure particles (pavitrakas) , pati means the nurturer and hari means one with a garland around His neck. Bhujangapatihari thus means the One who nurtures pure particles and wears them like a garland. Various serpents represent groups of pure particles. Though externally they appear like serpents, internally they are a kind of ladder. To make spiritual progress one has to climb up holding onto the tail of the serpent. Lord Shankar adorns serpents at nine points on His body - one on the head, one around the neck, one on each arm, one on each wrist, one around the waist and one on each thigh. This implies that His body is comprised of pure particles or that serpents of pure particles play all over the body of Lord Shankar who has the universe as His form. 2. Spiritual attributes a. One performing severe austerities and the great yogi Shiva is always seated in a bandha or a mudra. His temperature rises due to heat generated by performing severe austerities; Hence, He uses the Ganga, the moon and serpents which endow a cooling effect and lives on the snow-clad Kailas mountain. b. Short tempered If someone disturbs His meditation the radiance generated by spiritual practice will be suddenly expelled and whoever is in front of Him will not be able to tolerate it, and gets destroyed. This is referred to as being 'reduced to ashes by Shankar's opening of the third eye'. c. One who is willing to undergo any distress for the sake of imparting happiness to others The poison generated during the churning of the celestial ocean (samudramanthan) was burning the entire Universe but no deity came forward to accept it. At that time Shiva drank that poison and saved the world from destruction. d. One who has both, deities and demons, as His worshippers Neither did demons like Banasur, Ravan, etc. worship Lord Vishnu nor did Lord Vishnu bestow any boon upon any demon. However, they worshipped Lord Shiva who blessed them. e. Master of the spirits Since Lord Shiva is the master of spirits, His worshippers are generally not possessed by them. About Maha Shivaratri Maha Shivaratri is celebrated throughout the country; it is particularly popular in Uttar Pradesh. Maha Shivratri falls on the 14th day of the dark half of 'Margasirsa' (February-March) . The name means " the night of Shiva " . The ceremonies take place chiefly at night. This is a festival observed in honour of Lord Shiva and it is believed that on this day Lord Shiva was married to Parvati. On this festival people worship 'Shiva - the Destroyer'. This night marks the night when Lord Shiva danced the 'Tandav'. In Andhra Pradesh, pilgrims throng the Sri Kalahasteshwara Temple at Kalahasti and the Bharamarambha Malikarjunaswamy Temple at Srisailam. About The Lord Shiva - the word meaning auspicious - is one of the Hindu Trinity, comprising of Lord Brahma, the creator, Lord Vishnu, the preserver and Lord Shiva or Mahesh, the Destroyer and Re-Producer of life. Shiva is known by many names like " Shankar " , " Mahesh " , " Bholenath " , " Neelakanth " , " Shambhu Kailasheshwar " , " Umanath " , " Nataraj " and others. For few people, Shiva is " Paramatman " , " Brahman " , the Absolute, but many more prefer to see Shiva as a personal God given to compassion for his worshippers, and the dispenser of both spiritual and material blessings. Related to the Absolute concept is Shiva as " Yoganath " meaning the Lord of Yoga, wherein he becomes teacher, path and goal. As such he is the " Adi Guru " or the Highest Guru of 'Sannyasins' who have renounced the world to attain the Absolute. He is the most sought-after deity amongst the Hindus and they pray to him as the god of immense large-heartedness who they believe grants all their wishes. Around him are weaved many interesting stories that reveal His magnanimous heart. Not only this, but these stories and legends also enrich the Indian culture and art. Time is invisible and formless. Therefore Mahakal Shiva, as per the Vedas, manifested himself as " LINGUM " to make mankind aware of the presence of Eternal Time. That day when Shiva manifested himself in the form of " Lingum " was the fourth day of the dark night in the month of 'Magha' i.e. February-March. Maha Shivratri continues to be celebrated forever and ever. The Story Of King Chitrabhanu In the Shanti Parva of the Mahabharata, Bhishma, whilst resting on the bed of arrows and discoursing on Dharma, refers to the observance of Maha Shivaratri by King Chitrabhanu. The story goes as follows - Once upon a time King Chitrabhanu of the Ikshvaku dynasty, who ruled over the whole of Jambudvipa, was observing a fast with his wife, it being the day of Maha Shivaratri. The sage Ashtavakra came on a visit to the court of the king. The sag asked the king the purpose of his observing the past. King Chitrabhanu explained that he had the gift of remembering the incidents of his previous birth. The king said to the sage that in his previous he was a hunter in Varanasi and his name was Suswara. His only livelihood was to kill and sell birds and animals. One day while roaming through forests in search of animals he was overtaken by the darkness of night. Unable to return home, he climbed a tree for shelter. It happened to be a Bael tree. He had shot a deer that day but had no time to take it home. So he bundled it up and tied it to a branch on the tree. As hunger and thirst tormented him, he was kept awake throughout the night. He shed profuse tears when he thought of his poor wife and children who were starving and anxiously waiting for his return. To pass away the time that night he engaged himself in plucking the Bael leaves and dropping them down onto the ground. The next day he returned home and sold the deer and then bought some food for himself and his family. The moment he was about to break his fast a stranger came to him, begging for food. He served the food first to stranger and then had his own. At the time of his death, he saw two messengers of Lord Shiva. They were sent down to conduct his soul to the abode of Lord Shiva. He learnt then for the first time of the great merit he had earned by the unconscious worship of Lord Shiva during the night of Shivaratri. The messengers told him that there was a Lingam at the bottom of the tree. The leaves I dropped fell on the Lingam. His tears, which had shed out of pure sorrow for his family, fell onto the Lingam and washed it and he had fasted all day and all night. Thus, he unconsciously worshiped the Lord. As the conclusion of the tale the King said that he lived in the abode of the Lord and enjoyed divine bliss for long ages and now he has reborn as Chitrabhanu. The Festivity People observe a strict fast on this day. Some devotees do not even take a drop of water and they keep vigil all night. The Shiva Lingam is worshipped throughout the night by washing it every three hours with milk, curd, honey, rose water, etc., whilst the chanting of the Mantra " Om Namah Shivaya " continues. Offerings of Bael leaves are made to the Lingam as Bael leaves are considered very sacred and it is said that Goddess Lakshmi resides in them. Hymns in praise of Lord Shiva, such as the " Shiva Mahimna Stotra " of Pushpadanta or Ravana's " Shiva Tandava Stotra " are sung with great fervour and devotion. People repeat the 'Panchakshara' Mantra, " Om Namah Shivaya " . He, who utters the names of Shiva during Shivratri, with perfect devotion and concentration, is freed from all sins. He reaches the abode of Shiva and lives there happily. He is liberated from the wheel of births and deaths. Many pilgrims dock to the places where there are Shiva temples. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 5, 2008 Report Share Posted March 5, 2008 Dear Sreeramji and friends,Happy maha_shiv_ratriSince Shiv is the jyoti within us, I think the maha-shiv-ratri is the night when we can try to kindle/rekindle/brighten this jyoti. I had sometime back, on the net, found a nice astrological link-up of Jyotir linghams. Don't ask me the vedic refereces...for I wouldn't know myself...but it makes an interesting reading..and looks perfectly natural...pls read on..if you like.. Shiva as light inside us – and the jyotir lingams Once Brahma and Vishnu were arguing about who was the most powerful Deva. Brahma, the great architect, thought he was best as he created the whole of creation. But Vishnu argued he wouldn't be able to keep it all running if it wasn't for Him the sustainer, and everyone recognized this worshiping Vishnu in his many forms. Brahma argued back, that love of materialism was love of Him and therefore…As they argued a huge pillar of light appeared, infinite and bright it stretched from one side of forever to the other. Awed they wanted to know of where and who this came from. Brahma went upward to search for and end or beginning, Vishnu went down to search the cause. Aeons passed, and no end of this was found. In surrender they both prostrated before the blazing pillar of Light, and Shiva gave his blessing, acknowledging he was the infinite Jyoti (light). Soul is seem as an infinite column of light stretching through the universe. The Jyotir Lingam represents the atman, the soul, which is seen as light, infinite and eternal light. It is the light of knowledge, the light of illumination, the light of Truth, Aum Tat Sat. The Lingam is the energy of creation, it is represented by a round stone symbolic of the dome of the sky) and sitting in the yoni (representing the earth). Sometimes it has a more phallic presentation symbolic of the interwoven Divine male and female energies. There are twelve Jyotir Lingam temples found throughout India, where there are naturally occurring Lingas. These are places where the Linga was found and a temple was built around it. The found Linga already had the power of Shiva within it, it did not need pranpratishta to awaken it or instill Shiva's energy into it. The jyotir Lingam represents the atman. There is a Jyotir Lingam associated with each sign of the zodiac. The cause of one's creation, the purpose of ones being is seen from the Linga that is associated with the sign. By meditation on this individual lingam, using its special mantra, and by pilgrimage to this holy site, one comes closer to an understanding of the purpose of the atman's creation. It will help reveal one's purpose of creation. As the Jyotir Lingam is the form of Lord Shiva as light, it is important for Jyotishis to worship the Jyotir Lingam. To get in touch with the Jyotir Vidya and awaken the light of the Atman, to help make the inner light shine. Rameshwar is named after Lord Ram, who is the incarnation of Visnu who represents perfect Dharma. Aries is the Sun's exaltation, this is where the Sun has the most vitality, vigor and ability to express its energy. This is a place of power and control, a place of leadership, kings and generals. The Sun significates our dharma, it is concerned with righteousness, justice and truth. Somanath is the Moon's exaltation. It is the place of abundance and fulfilment. It is the place of Rasa, the nectar, good taste. Also health, the strength of Ojas, the immune system. Nageshwar is named after the Snake lord. According to Jaimini it is the exaltation place of Rahu. It has the power to reach the masses, the power to manipulate communication. Omkareshwar is named after omkar (the sound of Aum). Patanjali says Om is the word denoting Ishwara. Constant repetition of Om and meditation on its meaning is surrender to God. From that practice, the consciousness turns inwards and obstacles are overcome. Omkareshwar is the jyotir lingam which represents the Lord in the form of omkar. Sometimes Aum is connected with Siva as it is the primal sound of which all others arise. Sometimes it is connected with Ganesh as it comes before all other words in prayer. Sometimes it is used as a transcendental word for denoting the divine, or the primal and vibration of the universe. Cancer is Jupiter's exaltation and thereby is the strength and blessings of the Guru. It is the place of the highest use of the Dhi shakti, the power of intelligence. Omkareshwar is an island situated in the Narmada river in Madya Pradesh where the popular naturally formed lingas are found and sold throughout the world. The island contains many modern and ancient temples and shrines with Shiva Lingas. The Jyotir Linga is found when one first enters the island. Also worth visiting on the top of the island is a six foot high large onyx lingam, and on the far side of the island is an old debilitated Surya temple. Ghurneshwar is the Lord of Tapasvi who lives in the jungles or remote areas. It has the power to forgive you of earlier sins. Dhusaneshwar vowed to forgive everyone.Malikarjuna is the greatest bhakta. It is the exaltation of Mercury. It is located in Srisailam is located in Kurnool district of Andhra PradeshMahakala is Shiva as great Time. It is the exaltation place of Saturn as the governor of time. Saturn is the son of Chaya, the shadowy one, who has all the curses. Jyotishis go to this Lingam to get the knowledge of time, Varahamahira used to worship at this Lingam. A watch is the yantra of Mahakala, and therefore should not be worn on the right hand, the right hand belongs to Jupiter, the left hand belongs to Venus. Mahakala is in Ujjain. Vaidyanth is Shiva as the divine physician. Vaidya is the Sanskrit word for doctor which literally means one who has the knowledge, and nath means lord. From the Vedas, Rudra was called the first physician, Shiva is the modern day form of Rudra. Vaidyanath has an eighth house connection being associated with Scorpio the natural ruler of the eighth house. It is healing that has to do with holistic modalities working on the spiritual, and psychological as well as physical level of healing. Vaidyanath is located near Bodhagaya. Vishwanath is the lord of all gods. According to Jaimini, Sagittarius is the exaltation of Ketu. It is a place of spiritual liberation. Ashes are taken to Kasi Vishwanath to get liberation. Vishwanath is located in Varanasi. Bhimashankar is Shiva as the great warrior. Capricorn is the exaltation of Mars. Shiva has always incarnated with Lord Vishnu whenever He can be of service. In the Ramayana Shiva incarnated as Hanuman, the hero of the epic. In the Mahabarata, Shiva incarnated as the great warrior Bhima. Kedarnath is located in the high Himalyayas. Aquarius is the sign of Saturn and Rahu. It is a sign of ingenuity. Triambakeshwar is the three eyed Lord. Pisces is the exaltation place of Venus. Venus did Tapasya (hung from one leg in a tree for twenty years) to have the power to bring back to life. On a material level Venus brings us back with the sperm and ovum (shukra dhatu), love, and the sexual act. This is why the 7th house is the house of rebirth. Spiritually, Venus brings us back again and again to get moksa (liberation). One will come with Venus uchha when ready for liberation, it is She who is exalted in the last sign of the zodiac. Bija Aum Jum Sa. The mantra associated with Triambakeshwar is the Mritanjayi mantra which cures disease and asks that one be made ready for liberation like a ripe fruit ready to fall off the vine. The Jyotirlinga are not a simple way to see the life purpose, the whole chart is the reason for incarnating. The Jyotir Lingams are showing a higher purpose in life beyond what we are incarnating for. We still need to see a person's dharma, artha, kama, moksa, and everything associated with that in the chart. The Ishta guides our Atman to moksa (as it is seen from the 12th to karakamsa- jivanmuktamsa). The Ishta is to be worshiped everyday. The Jyotirlinga is the light inside us always, and we can be aware of it always, it is connected to the AK, the light that illuminates the individual atma. It is connected to Shiva. External worship of the Jyotirlinga for the average person can be done on Mondays. Note the peculiarities of the sign of the zodiac representing the Tithi in an individual rasi chart. See the combinations of planets with that sign, the house that it occupies with reference to the lagna, and the yogas involving it. Notice the nature of benefics or malefics, their Chara karakatwa, as well as other factors influencing that sign. The sign indicated by the Tithi is very specific to the divine's reason for the individual's incarnation. The purpose of creation is seen from the tithi. The jyotir Lingam that physically created you is seen from the lingam of the Sun sign. If the two signs are the same, then this will be a very powerful focus in the life of an individual. One can also see the relation between the Ishta Deva sign and the Jyotir Lingam sign, there will be some link to be spiritual. Sun is Shiva in all signs the Sun as the Shivalingam. Sun is karaka for the first house, so for health purposes use the Jyotir lingam of the Sun. Hope you all enjoyed this.regardsneelam On 05/03/2008, sreeram srinivas <sreeram64 wrote: Dear Members, In past noticed many Lord Shiva bhakts in this group.....would request them....to share any astro_significance of this Maha_Shiva_Ratri.....would appreciate...and would like to hear more about it...... Anything small or big...no matter ...correct or not...do not bother...just share..... With regards, Sreeram_Srinivas Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 5, 2008 Report Share Posted March 5, 2008 hullo, last year i had also posted a similar query on some forum because i was told that mahashivratri is a very special day or night when there is some special arrangement of constellations. i could not get any answer abt. the constellations but the most convincing reply i got was that this is the night of union of shiva (sun) with shakti(moon). there are 12 nights of such union every year, in every sign of the zodiac....so there are actually 12 shivratris of which one is MAHA shivratri...in the lunar month of magha when this union takes place in the sign of kumbha. shivratri is on the 14th day of krishna paksha....just one day before amavasya. the 14th tithi is ruled by ....venus?...just before rahu takes over as the next tithi? there is a tradition to keep awake the whole night on mahashivratri with the spine reasonably erect to recieve the grace of shiva which falls like amrit from heaven. the spiritually sensitive can actually experience an upsurge of energy on this day/night. it is said that citing shiva mantra is specially auspicious...leading to one's " evolution " and helping one to inch closer to " moksha " . leaving u with this excerpt from sadhguru: " Mahashivratri is a night of many possibilities. It is the darkest night of the month. Its very darkness is cause for celebration. Normally, we tend to resist darkness and opt for light. On Shivratri, however, darkness is venerated as the symbol of creation and destruction. The word Shiva literally means that which is not. That which is, is existence; that which is, is creation. That which is not is Shiva. That which is not means, if you open your eyes and look around, if your vision is for small things, you will see lots of creation. If your vision is really looking for big things, you will see that the biggest presence in existence is a vast emptiness. Just a few spots – which we call galaxies – are noticed, not the vast emptiness that holds. This vastness or unbounded emptiness is Shiva. When we say Shiva, we are referring to this vast emptiness of existence. It is in the lap of this vast emptiness that all Creation has happened. Our ancient prayers are not about saving yourself, protecting yourself, or about doing better in life. The prayers have always been about `Oh lord, destroy me, so that I can become like Yourself.' So when we say Shivratri, which is the darkest night of the month, it is an opportunity for us to dissolve our limitedness, to experience the unboundedness of the source of Creation, which is the seed in every human being. Shivaratri is an opportunity to bring yourself to that experience of the vast emptiness within every human being, which is the source of all Creation " . Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev http://mail.nic.in/uwc/webmail/en/mail.html?lang=en & laurel=on & cal=1 , " sreeram srinivas " <sreeram64 wrote: > > > Dear Members, > > In past noticed many Lord Shiva bhakts in this group.....would request > them....to share any astro_significance of this > Maha_Shiva_Ratri.....would appreciate...and would like to hear more > about it...... > > Anything small or big...no matter ...correct or not...do not > bother...just share..... > > With regards, > > Sreeram_Srinivas > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 5, 2008 Report Share Posted March 5, 2008 Yoga Mahashivarathri – Opening the third eye The 14th day of every month or the day before the New Moon which is the darkest night in the lunar month, is known as Shivarathri. Among all the 12 Shivarathris in a year Mahashivarathri is the most powerful one. On this day the planetary positions, especially in the northern hemisphere, are such there is a natural upsurge of energies in the human system. In the yogic tradition, Shiva is not worshipped as a God but considered as the Adi Guru, the first Guru from whom the knowledge originated. For the ascetics that is the day he became one with the Kailash; he became like a mountain - still, absolutely still. After many millennia in meditation, one day he became absolutely still; that day is Mahashivarathri. All movement in him stopped and he became utterly still, so ascetics see Mahashivarathri as the day of stillness. Shiva has always been referred to as Triambaka in so many ways because he has a third eye. The third eye is the eye of vision. These two eyes are sensory organs; they feed the mind with all nonsense because what you see is not the truth. You see this person, think something about him; if you see that person it is something about him, but you are not able to see the Shiva in him. These two eyes don't see the truth so another eye, an eye of deeper penetration, has to be opened up. In this country, in this tradition, knowing doesn't mean reading books, knowing doesn't mean listening to someone, knowing doesn't mean getting information from here and there. Knowing means opening up a new vision into life. So true knowing means your third eye has to open up. If your third eye is not opened then there is no way you can see Shiva. So this day, the Mahashivarathri day, that possibility, nature is bringing it close. Everyday it is possible; it is not that you will have to wait for this day. But this day nature offers it to you easily. One of the prescriptions for today is you do not lie down in horizontal positions; remain in a vertical position. Remaining vertical alone is not sufficient; we will have to be in such position where we are not ourselves. Allow him to be; you are not. Shiva means `that which is not'. If you become like that the possibility of opening up new vision into life, looking at life with clarity is possible. Any amount of thinking, any amount of philosophising, will not bring clarity into your mind. Only when vision opens, only then there is clarity. Nobody, no situation, can distort this clarity within you. But the logical clarity you create, anybody can distort it. So today is an opportunity for you to become a " Triambaka " , for you to open your third eye. Mahashivarathri is very significant for people who are in the spiritual process, it is also very significant for people who are in family situations, and it is also very significant for the ambitious in the world. By people who live in family situations, Mahashivarathri is worshiped as Shiva's wedding anniversary. For the ascetics that is the day he became one with the Kailash, because he became like a mountain - still, absolutely still. And the ambitious of the world see that day as the day Shiva conquered all his enemies. Now, why are this day and this night held in so much importance in yogic traditions? Modern science has gone through many phases and arrived at a point today where they're out to prove to you that everything that you know as life, everything that you know as matter and existence, everything that you know as the cosmos, as galaxies, it is all just one energy manifesting itself in millions and millions of ways. This reality is an experiential reality in every yogi; the word " yogi " means just that. As you know, the word " yoga " means union. The word " yogi " means one who has known the oneness of existence. When I say " yoga, " I'm not referring to any one particular practice or system; all longing to know the unbounded, all longing to know the oneness in the existence is yoga. This night offers one such opportunity to experience this. The sages and seers of the past recognised this natural phenomenon in the human body and they made it a part of the tradition to make use of that day as a day of sadhana, as a day of intensifying the spiritual processes. In Isha we have set up a tradition where the Shivarathri day every month is of importance to people who are here. The Mahashivarathri, which occurs once in a year, is of even greater significance. We want to be aware, awake, focused, and vertical also. So various situations are created at Isha Yoga Center on this day, combining powerful meditations and celebration, which will definitely keep you awake. Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 5, 2008 Report Share Posted March 5, 2008 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HK7Y3LCU7Pg & feature=related Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 6, 2008 Report Share Posted March 6, 2008 Respected Neelam Gupta, Thanks for such a brilliant article on Shiva ratri --- neelam gupta <neelamgupta07 wrote: > Dear Sreeramji and friends, > Happy maha_shiv_ratri > Since Shiv is the jyoti within us, I think the > maha-shiv-ratri is the night > when we can try to kindle/rekindle/brighten this > jyoti. > I had sometime back, on the net, found a nice > astrological link-up of Jyotir > linghams. Don't ask me the vedic refereces...for I > wouldn't know > myself...but it makes an interesting reading..and > looks perfectly > natural...pls read on..if you like.. > > *Shiva as light inside us – and the jyotir lingams* > > Once Brahma and Vishnu were arguing about who was > the most powerful Deva. > Brahma, the great architect, thought he was best as > he created the whole of > creation. But Vishnu argued he wouldn't be able to > keep it all running if it > wasn't for Him the sustainer, and everyone > recognized this worshiping Vishnu > in his many forms. Brahma argued back, that love of > materialism was love of > Him and therefore… > As they argued a huge pillar of light appeared, > infinite and bright it > stretched from one side of forever to the other. > Awed they wanted to know of > where and who this came from. Brahma went upward to > search for and end or > beginning, Vishnu went down to search the cause. > Aeons passed, and no end of > this was found. In surrender they both prostrated > before the blazing pillar > of Light, and Shiva gave his blessing, acknowledging > he was the infinite > Jyoti (light). > > Soul is seem as an infinite column of light > stretching through the universe. > The Jyotir Lingam represents the atman, the soul, > which is seen as light, > infinite and eternal light. It is the light of > knowledge, the light of > illumination, the light of Truth, Aum Tat Sat. > > The Lingam is the energy of creation, it is > represented by a round stone > symbolic of the dome of the sky) and sitting in the > yoni (representing the > earth). Sometimes it has a more phallic presentation > symbolic of the > interwoven Divine male and female energies. There > are twelve Jyotir Lingam > temples found throughout India, where there are > naturally occurring Lingas. > These are places where the Linga was found and a > temple was built around it. > The found Linga already had the power of Shiva > within it, it did not need > pranpratishta to awaken it or instill Shiva's energy > into it. The jyotir > Lingam represents the atman. > > There is a Jyotir Lingam associated with each sign > of the zodiac. The cause > of one's creation, the purpose of ones being is seen > from the Linga that is > associated with the sign. By meditation on this > individual lingam, using its > special mantra, and by pilgrimage to this holy site, > one comes closer to an > understanding of the purpose of the atman's > creation. It will help reveal > one's purpose of creation. > > As the Jyotir Lingam is the form of Lord Shiva as > light, it is important for > Jyotishis to worship the Jyotir Lingam. To get in > touch with the Jyotir > Vidya and awaken the light of the Atman, to help > make the inner light shine. > > > 1. *Rameshwar* is named after Lord Ram, who is > the incarnation of > Visnu who represents perfect Dharma. Aries is the > Sun's exaltation, this is > where the Sun has the most vitality, vigor and > ability to express its > energy. This is a place of power and control, a > place of leadership, kings > and generals. The Sun significates our dharma, it > is concerned with > righteousness, justice and truth. > 2. *Somanath* is the Moon's exaltation. It is the > place of abundance > and fulfilment. It is the place of Rasa, the > nectar, good taste. Also > health, the strength of Ojas, the immune system. > 3. *Nageshwar *is named after the Snake lord. > According to Jaimini it > is the exaltation place of Rahu. It has the power > to reach the masses, the > power to manipulate communication. > 4. *Omkareshwar *is named after omkar (the sound > of Aum). Patanjali > says Om is the word denoting Ishwara. Constant > repetition of Om and > meditation on its meaning is surrender to God. > From that practice, the > consciousness turns inwards and obstacles are > overcome. Omkareshwar is the > jyotir lingam which represents the Lord in the > form of omkar. Sometimes Aum > is connected with Siva as it is the primal sound > of which all others arise. > Sometimes it is connected with Ganesh as it comes > before all other words in > prayer. Sometimes it is used as a transcendental > word for denoting the > divine, or the primal and vibration of the > universe. Cancer is Jupiter's > exaltation and thereby is the strength and > blessings of the Guru. It is the > place of the highest use of the Dhi shakti, the > power of intelligence. > Omkareshwar is an island situated in the Narmada > river in Madya > Pradesh where the popular naturally formed > lingas are found and sold > throughout the world. The island contains many > modern and ancient temples > and shrines with Shiva Lingas. The Jyotir Linga > is found when one first > enters the island. Also worth visiting on the top > of the island is a six > foot high large onyx lingam, and on the far side > of the island is an old > debilitated Surya temple. > 5. *Ghurneshwar* is the Lord of Tapasvi who lives > in the jungles or > remote areas. It has the power to forgive you of > earlier sins. Dhusaneshwar > vowed to forgive everyone. > 6. *Malikarjuna *is the greatest bhakta. It is > the exaltation of > Mercury. It is located in Srisailam is located in > Kurnool district of > Andhra Pradesh > 7. *Mahakala* is Shiva as great Time. It is the > exaltation place of > Saturn as the governor of time. Saturn is the son > of Chaya, the shadowy one, > who has all the curses. Jyotishis go to this > Lingam to get the knowledge of > time, Varahamahira used to worship at this > Lingam. A watch is the yantra of > Mahakala, and therefore should not be worn on the > right hand, the right hand > belongs to Jupiter, the left hand belongs to > Venus. Mahakala is in > Ujjain. > 8. *Vaidyanth* is Shiva as the divine physician. > Vaidya is the > Sanskrit word for doctor which literally means > one who has the knowledge, > and nath means lord. From the Vedas, Rudra was > called the first physician, > Shiva is the modern day form of Rudra. Vaidyanath > has an eighth house > connection being associated with Scorpio the > natural ruler of the eighth > house. It is healing that has to do with holistic > modalities working on the > spiritual, and psychological as well as physical > level of healing. > Vaidyanath is located near Bodhagaya. > 9. *Vishwanath* is the lord of all gods. > According to Jaimini, > Sagittarius is the exaltation of Ketu. It is a > place of spiritual > liberation. Ashes are taken to Kasi Vishwanath to > get liberation. Vishwanath > is located in Varanasi. > 10. *Bhimashankar* is Shiva as the great warrior. > Capricorn is the > exaltation of Mars. Shiva has always incarnated > with Lord Vishnu whenever He > can be of service. In the Ramayana Shiva > incarnated as Hanuman, the hero of > the epic. In the Mahabarata, Shiva incarnated as > the great warrior Bhima. > 11. *Kedarnath* is located in the high > Himalyayas. Aquarius is the > sign of Saturn and Rahu. It is a sign of > ingenuity. > 12. *Triambakeshwar* is the three eyed Lord. > Pisces is the exaltation > place of Venus. Venus did Tapasya (hung from one > leg in a tree for twenty > years) to have the power to bring back to life. > On a material level Venus > brings us back with the sperm and ovum (shukra > dhatu), love, and the sexual > act. This is why the 7th house is the house of > rebirth. Spiritually, Venus > brings us back again and again to get moksa > (liberation). One will come with > Venus uchha when ready for liberation, it is She > who is exalted in the last > sign of the zodiac. Bija Aum Jum Sa. The mantra > associated with > Triambakeshwar is the Mritanjayi mantra which > cures disease and asks that > one be made ready for liberation like a ripe > fruit ready to fall off the > vine. > > The Jyotirlinga are not a simple way to see the life > purpose, the whole > chart is the reason for incarnating. The Jyotir > Lingams are showing a higher > purpose in life beyond what we are incarnating for. > We still need to see a > person's dharma, artha, kama, moksa, and everything > associated with that in > the chart. The Ishta guides our Atman to moksa (as > it is seen from the 12th > to karakamsa- jivanmuktamsa). The Ishta is to be > worshiped everyday. The > Jyotirlinga is the light inside us always, and we > can be aware of it always, > it is connected to the AK, the light that > illuminates the individual atma. > It is connected to Shiva. External worship of the > Jyotirlinga for the > average person can be done on Mondays. > Note the peculiarities of the sign of the zodiac > representing the Tithi in > an individual rasi chart. See the combinations of > planets with that sign, > the house that it occupies with reference to the > lagna, and the yogas > involving it. Notice the nature of benefics or > malefics, their Chara > karakatwa, as well as other factors influencing that > sign. The sign > indicated by the Tithi is very specific to the > divine's reason for the > individual's incarnation. > > The purpose of creation is seen from the tithi. The > jyotir Lingam that > physically created you is seen from the lingam of > the Sun sign. If the two > signs are the same, then this will be a very > powerful focus in the life of > an individual. One can also see the relation between > the Ishta Deva sign and > the Jyotir Lingam sign, there will be some link to > be spiritual. > > Sun is Shiva in all signs the Sun as the > Shivalingam. Sun is karaka for the > first house, so for health purposes use the Jyotir > lingam of the Sun. > > Hope you all enjoyed this. > > regards > > neelam > > > On 05/03/2008, sreeram srinivas <sreeram64 > wrote: > > > > > > Dear Members, > > > > In past noticed many Lord Shiva bhakts in this > group.....would request > > them....to share any astro_significance of this > > Maha_Shiva_Ratri.....would appreciate...and would > like to hear more > > about it...... > > > > Anything small or big...no matter ...correct or > not...do not > > bother...just share..... > > > > With regards, > > > > Sreeram_Srinivas > > > > > > > ______________________________\ ____ Never miss a thing. Make your home page. http://www./r/hs Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 6, 2008 Report Share Posted March 6, 2008 Namaste madamji, Quote " pls read on..if you like..." Unquote Read and felt enlightened ...... this groups truly has really some core Lord Shiva Bhakts ..... ofcourse .... One Self Professed Bhakt is missing....may be busy collecting Bilwa Leaves !!! Hope to hear her version, if any !! with regards, Sreeram_Srinivas , "neelam gupta" <neelamgupta07 wrote:>> Dear Sreeramji and friends,> Happy maha_shiv_ratri> Since Shiv is the jyoti within us, I think the maha-shiv-ratri is the night> when we can try to kindle/rekindle/brighten this jyoti.> I had sometime back, on the net, found a nice astrological link-up of Jyotir> linghams. Don't ask me the vedic refereces...for I wouldn't know> myself...but it makes an interesting reading..and looks perfectly> natural...pls read on..if you like.. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 6, 2008 Report Share Posted March 6, 2008 Dear Mr. Vinay v Kapoor ji, That was a great write up or article .... informative ...... just adding a request.....any body to comment on the great Lord Shiva Bhakts of all times... i.e. Lankapati Lord Ravana { Lanka - place, may or may not be the Sri Lanka today, pati = actually here its meaning is King}....correct me if you have any Superior Bhakts than Lankapati Lord Ravana. With regards, Sreeram_Srinivas Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 6, 2008 Report Share Posted March 6, 2008 Dear Sreenivas jithat feature was not mine, otherwise i would've said...pls. pls. pls. read on...nevertheless it has some amusement value. It goes on further to give you a way to calculate your jyotirlingam (using your tithi of birth).. .as if shivji would be waiting for that person out there...defying HIS own theory of being all pervasive for all... Some time back in this forum...we all seemed to agree that SHIVA is Kaalpurush. Thus our astrology would be.... KAALPURUSH (read SHIVA) doing HIS taandav in the zodiac (read houses) with all the planets in row. Was I enlightened!!! Before I could find out, it was shiv ratri and I thought of capturing the KAALPURUSH in my heart...and head if possible (I see no difference between my grey and HIS bhasm). I went all over, tried to collect whatever would please him and am now coming back after making the offering to HIM. Now hoping to be blessed... at least for the year ahead…till i renew it next year.Of course I prayed for all, and asked him to bestow on us (especially on our 2K+ group), the astro-gyan as only HE could... Regardsneelam Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 6, 2008 Report Share Posted March 6, 2008 Dear Kursija ji,This writeup appeared on one of the innumerable astro-websites we have today. I don't know who is the brilliant writer.Also it has nothing to do with Shiv Ratri. It contains general information about the significance of Jyotirlinghams in astrology. regardsneelam On 06/03/2008, S.C. Kursija <sckursija wrote: Respected Neelam Gupta, Thanks for such a brilliant article on Shiva ratri --- neelam gupta <neelamgupta07 wrote: > Dear Sreeramji and friends, > Happy maha_shiv_ratri > Since Shiv is the jyoti within us, I think the > maha-shiv-ratri is the night > when we can try to kindle/rekindle/brighten this > jyoti. > I had sometime back, on the net, found a nice > astrological link-up of Jyotir > linghams. Don't ask me the vedic refereces...for I > wouldn't know > myself...but it makes an interesting reading..and > looks perfectly > natural...pls read on..if you like.. > > *Shiva as light inside us – and the jyotir lingams* > > Once Brahma and Vishnu were arguing about who was > the most powerful Deva. > Brahma, the great architect, thought he was best as > he created the whole of > creation. But Vishnu argued he wouldn't be able to > keep it all running if it > wasn't for Him the sustainer, and everyone > recognized this worshiping Vishnu > in his many forms. Brahma argued back, that love of > materialism was love of > Him and therefore… > As they argued a huge pillar of light appeared, > infinite and bright it > stretched from one side of forever to the other. > Awed they wanted to know of > where and who this came from. Brahma went upward to > search for and end or > beginning, Vishnu went down to search the cause. > Aeons passed, and no end of > this was found. In surrender they both prostrated > before the blazing pillar > of Light, and Shiva gave his blessing, acknowledging > he was the infinite > Jyoti (light). > > Soul is seem as an infinite column of light > stretching through the universe. > The Jyotir Lingam represents the atman, the soul, > which is seen as light, > infinite and eternal light. It is the light of > knowledge, the light of > illumination, the light of Truth, Aum Tat Sat. > > The Lingam is the energy of creation, it is > represented by a round stone > symbolic of the dome of the sky) and sitting in the > yoni (representing the > earth). Sometimes it has a more phallic presentation > symbolic of the > interwoven Divine male and female energies. There > are twelve Jyotir Lingam > temples found throughout India, where there are > naturally occurring Lingas. > These are places where the Linga was found and a > temple was built around it. > The found Linga already had the power of Shiva > within it, it did not need > pranpratishta to awaken it or instill Shiva's energy > into it. The jyotir > Lingam represents the atman. > > There is a Jyotir Lingam associated with each sign > of the zodiac. The cause > of one's creation, the purpose of ones being is seen > from the Linga that is > associated with the sign. By meditation on this > individual lingam, using its > special mantra, and by pilgrimage to this holy site, > one comes closer to an > understanding of the purpose of the atman's > creation. It will help reveal > one's purpose of creation. > > As the Jyotir Lingam is the form of Lord Shiva as > light, it is important for > Jyotishis to worship the Jyotir Lingam. To get in > touch with the Jyotir > Vidya and awaken the light of the Atman, to help > make the inner light shine. > > > 1. *Rameshwar* is named after Lord Ram, who is > the incarnation of > Visnu who represents perfect Dharma. Aries is the > Sun's exaltation, this is > where the Sun has the most vitality, vigor and > ability to express its > energy. This is a place of power and control, a > place of leadership, kings > and generals. The Sun significates our dharma, it > is concerned with > righteousness, justice and truth. > 2. *Somanath* is the Moon's exaltation. It is the > place of abundance > and fulfilment. It is the place of Rasa, the > nectar, good taste. Also > health, the strength of Ojas, the immune system. > 3. *Nageshwar *is named after the Snake lord. > According to Jaimini it > is the exaltation place of Rahu. It has the power > to reach the masses, the > power to manipulate communication. > 4. *Omkareshwar *is named after omkar (the sound > of Aum). Patanjali > says Om is the word denoting Ishwara. Constant > repetition of Om and > meditation on its meaning is surrender to God. > From that practice, the > consciousness turns inwards and obstacles are > overcome. Omkareshwar is the > jyotir lingam which represents the Lord in the > form of omkar. Sometimes Aum > is connected with Siva as it is the primal sound > of which all others arise. > Sometimes it is connected with Ganesh as it comes > before all other words in > prayer. Sometimes it is used as a transcendental > word for denoting the > divine, or the primal and vibration of the > universe. Cancer is Jupiter's > exaltation and thereby is the strength and > blessings of the Guru. It is the > place of the highest use of the Dhi shakti, the > power of intelligence. > Omkareshwar is an island situated in the Narmada > river in Madya > Pradesh where the popular naturally formed > lingas are found and sold > throughout the world. The island contains many > modern and ancient temples > and shrines with Shiva Lingas. The Jyotir Linga > is found when one first > enters the island. Also worth visiting on the top > of the island is a six > foot high large onyx lingam, and on the far side > of the island is an old > debilitated Surya temple. > 5. *Ghurneshwar* is the Lord of Tapasvi who lives > in the jungles or > remote areas. It has the power to forgive you of > earlier sins. Dhusaneshwar > vowed to forgive everyone. > 6. *Malikarjuna *is the greatest bhakta. It is > the exaltation of > Mercury. It is located in Srisailam is located in > Kurnool district of > Andhra Pradesh > 7. *Mahakala* is Shiva as great Time. It is the > exaltation place of > Saturn as the governor of time. Saturn is the son > of Chaya, the shadowy one, > who has all the curses. Jyotishis go to this > Lingam to get the knowledge of > time, Varahamahira used to worship at this > Lingam. A watch is the yantra of > Mahakala, and therefore should not be worn on the > right hand, the right hand > belongs to Jupiter, the left hand belongs to > Venus. Mahakala is in > Ujjain. > 8. *Vaidyanth* is Shiva as the divine physician. > Vaidya is the > Sanskrit word for doctor which literally means > one who has the knowledge, > and nath means lord. From the Vedas, Rudra was > called the first physician, > Shiva is the modern day form of Rudra. Vaidyanath > has an eighth house > connection being associated with Scorpio the > natural ruler of the eighth > house. It is healing that has to do with holistic > modalities working on the > spiritual, and psychological as well as physical > level of healing. > Vaidyanath is located near Bodhagaya. > 9. *Vishwanath* is the lord of all gods. > According to Jaimini, > Sagittarius is the exaltation of Ketu. It is a > place of spiritual > liberation. Ashes are taken to Kasi Vishwanath to > get liberation. Vishwanath > is located in Varanasi. > 10. *Bhimashankar* is Shiva as the great warrior. > Capricorn is the > exaltation of Mars. Shiva has always incarnated > with Lord Vishnu whenever He > can be of service. In the Ramayana Shiva > incarnated as Hanuman, the hero of > the epic. In the Mahabarata, Shiva incarnated as > the great warrior Bhima. > 11. *Kedarnath* is located in the high > Himalyayas. Aquarius is the > sign of Saturn and Rahu. It is a sign of > ingenuity. > 12. *Triambakeshwar* is the three eyed Lord. > Pisces is the exaltation > place of Venus. Venus did Tapasya (hung from one > leg in a tree for twenty > years) to have the power to bring back to life. > On a material level Venus > brings us back with the sperm and ovum (shukra > dhatu), love, and the sexual > act. This is why the 7th house is the house of > rebirth. Spiritually, Venus > brings us back again and again to get moksa > (liberation). One will come with > Venus uchha when ready for liberation, it is She > who is exalted in the last > sign of the zodiac. Bija Aum Jum Sa. The mantra > associated with > Triambakeshwar is the Mritanjayi mantra which > cures disease and asks that > one be made ready for liberation like a ripe > fruit ready to fall off the > vine. > > The Jyotirlinga are not a simple way to see the life > purpose, the whole > chart is the reason for incarnating. The Jyotir > Lingams are showing a higher > purpose in life beyond what we are incarnating for. > We still need to see a > person's dharma, artha, kama, moksa, and everything > associated with that in > the chart. The Ishta guides our Atman to moksa (as > it is seen from the 12th > to karakamsa- jivanmuktamsa). The Ishta is to be > worshiped everyday. The > Jyotirlinga is the light inside us always, and we > can be aware of it always, > it is connected to the AK, the light that > illuminates the individual atma. > It is connected to Shiva. External worship of the > Jyotirlinga for the > average person can be done on Mondays. > Note the peculiarities of the sign of the zodiac > representing the Tithi in > an individual rasi chart. See the combinations of > planets with that sign, > the house that it occupies with reference to the > lagna, and the yogas > involving it. Notice the nature of benefics or > malefics, their Chara > karakatwa, as well as other factors influencing that > sign. The sign > indicated by the Tithi is very specific to the > divine's reason for the > individual's incarnation. > > The purpose of creation is seen from the tithi. The > jyotir Lingam that > physically created you is seen from the lingam of > the Sun sign. If the two > signs are the same, then this will be a very > powerful focus in the life of > an individual. One can also see the relation between > the Ishta Deva sign and > the Jyotir Lingam sign, there will be some link to > be spiritual. > > Sun is Shiva in all signs the Sun as the > Shivalingam. Sun is karaka for the > first house, so for health purposes use the Jyotir > lingam of the Sun. > > Hope you all enjoyed this. > > regards > > neelam > > > On 05/03/2008, sreeram srinivas <sreeram64 > wrote: > > > > > > Dear Members, > > > > In past noticed many Lord Shiva bhakts in this > group.....would request > > them....to share any astro_significance of this > > Maha_Shiva_Ratri.....would appreciate...and would > like to hear more > > about it...... > > > > Anything small or big...no matter ...correct or > not...do not > > bother...just share..... > > > > With regards, > > > > Sreeram_Srinivas > > > > > > > ________ Never miss a thing. Make your home page. http://www./r/hs Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 6, 2008 Report Share Posted March 6, 2008 Dear Chandramouliswer ji, "Lanka-pathi" means "Pathi" (Husband or Rular) of Lanka. Ravana was the "Rular of Lanka Kingdom". "Lanka Adhipathi" clealy means "The Autocratic ruler of Lanka" the Emperor. Ravana was an Emporor who ruled Lanka - the King of Kings. There fore both the words "Lanka Pathi" and "Lanka Adhipati" are correct. Love and reagards,Sreenadh <Chandramouliswer Ghatti wrote....> Re: Re: Mahashiva_Ratri Dear Srinivas, It is not Lankpathi, He is called Lanka Adhipathi. Adhipathi means Emperor i.e.King of Kings. He is also called "RAVANA BRAHMA" He is the Worshiper of LORD SIVA.Super Powerful man on the Earth in that Yuga. He conqured Navagrahas.He ordered all the planets to sit in the 11th house when his son MEGHA NADH was about to take birth.Birth in that position of the planets make the person Immortal, Powerfull and nobody can defeat/ Kill him. All the Suras' (Devathas) or observing this position.Ravana went to labour room where Mandodari (his wife) was kept. AT this juncture Devatas rerquested "SANI" just to extend slowly his leg and put it in the 12 th house, House of longivity so that death is assured.Immediately after the delivary of the boy he has come back to see the planetary position.Furious on putting the leg of saturn in 12th (entering 12th House)cut his leg and made him lame and that is the reason for his slow movement in the charts takes longest time to cross each house.After that he put him in Pathaala Gruha so that no Asura can see his face and avoid Sani Dosha. When Hanuman came to LANKa in search of Sita Devi he first went to Paathaala Gruha thinking that she might have been kept Sita underground.He first met SANIgraha and hearing the entire story he freed him from the jail. Than Sanigraha promised Hanuma that "Whoever worthips Hanuma on Saturday(his day of the week) he will not trouble such people whatever may be the position of Saturn in the chart. In South most of the AStrologers suggest persons suffering from Sani-peeda to Pray/Worship Hanuma on saturday. Thanks & Regards, Chandramouliswer Ghatti .. --- On Thu, 6/3/08, sreeram srinivas <sreeram64 wrote: sreeram srinivas <sreeram64 Re: Mahashiva_Ratri Date: Thursday, 6 March, 2008, 2:04 PM Dear Mr. Vinay v Kapoor ji, That was a great write up or article .... informative ...... just adding a request.....any body to comment on the great Lord Shiva Bhakts of all times... i.e. Lankapati Lord Ravana { Lanka - place, may or may not be the Sri Lanka today, pati = actually here its meaning is King}....correct me if you have any Superior Bhakts than Lankapati Lord Ravana. With regards, Sreeram_Srinivas Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 6, 2008 Report Share Posted March 6, 2008 Markandeya was a great devotee of Lord Siva. His father Mrikandu performed rigorous austerities to get a son. Lord Siva appeared before him and said: " do you want a good son who will die in his sixteenth year or a bad and foolish son who will live for a long time? " Mrikandu asked for a good son.The boy came to know about his fate and began to worship Lord Siva whole-heartedly with intense faith and devotion. The boy entered into deep meditation and Samadhi on the day decreed as the day of his death. The messengers of Lord Yama were not able to approach him. Hence, Yama himself went to take away his life. The boy prayed to Lord Siva for protection and embraced the Linga. Then Yama threw his noose round the Linga and the boy. Lord Siva came out of the Linga immediately and killed Yama to protect the boy. Lord Siva was called Mrityunjaya and Kala-kala from that day. Also the 63 Nayanar Saints, esp. Kannappa Nayanar and Sirutonda Nayanar. , " sreeram srinivas " <sreeram64 wrote: > > > Dear Mr. Vinay v Kapoor ji, > > That was a great write up or article .... informative ...... just > adding a request.....any body to comment on the great Lord Shiva Bhakts > of all times... i.e. Lankapati Lord Ravana { Lanka - place, may or may > not be the Sri Lanka today, pati = actually here its meaning is > King}....correct me if you have any Superior Bhakts than Lankapati Lord > Ravana. > > With regards, > > Sreeram_Srinivas > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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