Why Celebrate the Night of shiva on Shivratri?
Maha Shivratri, meaning “The Great Night of Shiva”, is one of the most important Hindu festivals dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is observed on the 14th night (Chaturdashi) of the krishna Paksha in the month of Phalguna or Magha (February-March). This night holds immense spiritual and cosmic significance, as mentioned in the shiva Purana and other sacred texts.
1️⃣ The Night of Shiva’s Divine Manifestation (Lingodbhava)
According to the shiva Purana, on this night, Lord shiva appeared as a limitless pillar of fire (Jyotirlinga) before Lord vishnu and Lord Brahma.
Vishnu and Brahma were arguing about who was supreme.
To test them, shiva manifested as an infinite column of light.
Brahma flew upwards, and vishnu dug downwards but neither could find the beginning or end of Shiva.
This established Lord shiva as the supreme Divine Power.
💡 maha shivratri is observed to honor this divine event of Shiva’s infinite nature.
2️⃣ The Sacred marriage of shiva and Parvati
It is believed that on this night, shiva married Goddess Parvati, symbolizing the union of shakti (divine energy) with shiva (consciousness).
Devotees pray for marital bliss, harmony, and spiritual unity.
💡 Many unmarried women observe Shivratri to seek a devoted husband like Shiva.
3️⃣ The Day shiva Drank Poison to Save the Universe (Neelkanth Story)
During the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean), a deadly poison called Halahala emerged.
Lord shiva drank the poison to save the world but held it in his throat, turning it blue (Neelkanth).
Devotees observe Shivratri in gratitude for Shiva’s selflessness.
💡 This represents how Lord shiva absorbs negativity and transforms it into wisdom.
4️⃣ The Night of Cosmic Energy and Spiritual Awakening
Ancient yogis believe that on maha shivratri, cosmic energy is at its highest.
The planetary positions create a natural upward flow of energy, making it the best night for meditation and spiritual awakening.
💡 Staying awake and meditating on this night helps in self-realization and enlightenment.
5️⃣ Overcoming Darkness and Ignorance
The word "Ratri" means night, symbolizing darkness or ignorance.
Worshipping shiva on this night represents destroying ignorance, ego, and negative karma, leading to inner peace and liberation (moksha).
💡 maha shivratri is the night of surrendering to shiva and attaining divine wisdom.
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S Venkateshwari

26/02/2025 08:06 AM