Lord Dhakshinamurthy is an aspect of the Hindu god shiva as a guru (teacher) of all types of knowledge. This aspect of shiva is his personification as the supreme or the ultimate awareness, understanding and knowledge. This form represents shiva as a teacher of yoga, music, and wisdom, and giving exposition on the shastras. He is worshiped as the god of wisdom, complete and rewarding meditation.
Dakshinamurti literally means 'one who is facing south and 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, in the Hindu system of beliefs is regarded as the ultimate Guru the embodiment of knowledge and the destroyer of ignorance (as represented by the demon being crushed under the feet of the deity).
The fifth day of the week and 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.
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