There are many rituals related to gods and goddesses in Hindu religion. Every ritual has its own special significance. It is believed that if the rituals are not followed, then they prove to be very harmful. Lord Shiva has special significance in Hindu religion. To please Lord Shiva, people take many measures like offering water, milk, fruits, betel leaves, flowers and curd etc. on Shivling and also do worship. Married women observe fast for the long life of their husbands and unmarried girls observe fast to get a good groom.
According to the scriptures, women are not allowed to touch Shivling while worshipping, because there are some reasons why touching Shivling is prohibited. Some people say that Shiva is Parvati’s husband. In such a situation, how can a woman touch Shivling. Shivling is a symbol of male element. Therefore, women are not allowed to touch Shivling. Virgin girls should not touch Shivling, because Lord Shiva is immersed in very serious penance. Women are prohibited from worshiping Shivling so that the penance of Mahadev, the God of Gods, is not disturbed. According to many religious beliefs, the worship of Shivling is performed only by men. There are many rules for worshiping Shivling-
Women should worship Shivling in Nandi Mudra
Mostly women touch Shivling during worship. In astrology, Shivling is considered a male element. In such a situation, touching it is considered forbidden for women. However, women who want to touch Shivling due to their devotion, should touch it in Nandi Mudra only.
What is nandi mudra
Nandi Mudra is the one in which one sits like Nandi Ji. In this Mudra, the first and the last finger are kept straight, while the middle two fingers are joined with the thumb. Worshipping Lord Shiva in this Mudra makes him very happy. The wish made in this state is fulfilled by the grace of Lord Shiva. Therefore, women should worship this Mudra.
How to worship Shivling for women
Women should worship Shivling daily and observe fast on every Monday. After bathing every morning, offer water to Shivling and then bathe it with Panchamrit, then offer rice, fruits and flowers. Belpatra is considered the most important in the worship of Lord Shiva, so definitely include Belpatra in the worship material.
Some rules while worshiping Shivling
- It is said in the scriptures that worship of Shivling should be done only after bathing and meditation. Worshiping Shivling with a pure mind and body gives special benefits and the fruits of worship are attained.
- Panchamrit must be offered on Shivling, after this ash or sandalwood tilak should be applied to Mahadev. This adorns Lord Shiva and he is pleased with his devotee.
- It is said in the scriptures that one should never offer turmeric, kumkum or vermillion on the Shivling. These are considered to be the form of adornment, but Lord Shiva is Adiyogi. Only sandalwood and ash are considered suitable for his adornment.
- While worshipping Shivling, offer milk, water, black sesame seeds and Bel leaves to Lord Shiva. This pleases Mahadev.
- Also keep in mind that do not offer Kevada or Champa flower on Shivling. Along with this, offer rose or Ganga flower only after consultation.
- It is said in the scriptures that only the fruits of Kaner, Dhatura, Aak, Jasmine or Juhi should be offered on Shivling. Also, the Prasad offered on Shivling should not be consumed.
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- Along with this, one should not do a complete parikrama of the Shivlinga at the time of Shivlinga. Worship Goddess Lakshmi before worshipping the Shivlinga.
- While worshipping Shivling, do chant Mahamrityunjaya Mantra. It is said in the scriptures that chanting Mahamrityunjaya Mantra while offering water gives the full benefit of worship and the worship of the devotee becomes successful.
Can women offer water to Shivling?
Yes, women can offer water to Shivling, but cannot touch it. It is believed that Shiva mostly remains in meditation, if women touch Shivling, Shiva’s trance is disturbed and he becomes angry.
What is the benefit of worshipping Shivling?
By worshipping Parad Shivling, a person gets all the happiness like wealth, prosperity, success, respect, honour, children, wisdom etc. throughout his life. Also, in the end, he attains salvation.
Why should women not touch Shivlinga?
It is considered inappropriate to disturb Lord Shiva’s penance, so unmarried women are prohibited from touching the Shivalinga in the scriptures.
What happens by worshiping Lord Shiva daily?
By offering water to Lord Shiva daily, one gets blessings of happiness, prosperity, wealth and riches. Along with this, one gets rid of the fear of untimely death.
Why is black pepper offered on Shivlinga?
By offering black pepper on Shivling, a person is freed from diseases. According to the belief, offering black pepper on Shivling on the day of Mahashivratri or on monthly Shivratri brings happiness and prosperity.