Dakshinamurti literally means 'one who is facing south (dakṣiṇa)' in Sanskrit. South is the direction of Death, hence change. In every Siva temple the stone image of Dakshinamurthy is installed, facing south, on the southern circumambulatory path around the sanctum sanctorum. Perhaps, of all Hindu Gods, he is the only one sitting facing south.
Dakshinamurthy is portrayed as being in the yogic state of abstract meditation - and as a powerful form brimming with ever flowing bliss and supreme joy. Variations of this iconic representation include Veenadhara Dakshinamurthy, Rishabharooda Dakshinamurthy (mounted on a Rishabha the bull) etc. Maharshi Kardamshankara Jnanadeva, a mystic seer says that Dakshinamurthy means the abstract or hidden power of the absolute which expressed in all enlightened masters.
The
fifth day of the week Thursday is associated with the planet Jupiter and is
referred to as Guru (Guruvar or Guruvaaram). Thursdays are considered
auspicious to start any educational endeavors. It is on Thursdays that special
worship services are offered to Dakshinamurthy in many Saivite temples.
Some temple traditions hold full moon nights, particularly the night of
the Guru Purnima as the appropriate time for worship services to Dakshinamurthy.
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