SRI SIVA

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Sri Siva

 

Siva is one of the three principal deities of the Hindu pantheon; the other

two are Brahma and Vishnu. His name means 'auspicious'. He has the power of

annihilation or destruction of evil. He is an ideal for simplicity in our

life and to be detached from worldly objects. He is also called Mruthyunjaya

(the conqueror of Death).

SLOKA/PRAYER

Vandhe Sambhum Umaapathim Suragurum

Vandhe Jagath Kaaranam

Vandhe Pannaga Bhooshanam Mrigadharam

Vandhe Pasoonaam Pathim

Vandhe Soorya Sasaanga Vahnni Nayanam

Vandhe Mukundha Priyam

Vandhe Baktha Janaasryam Cha

Varadham Vandhe Sivam Sankaram

MEANING

I bow to Sambu the Lord of Uma and the teacher of the Devas. I bow to the

Lord Who is the root cause of the entire world. I bow to the Lord, Who has

the serpent as His ornament, Who carries a deer. I bow to the Lord of all

beings. I bow to the Lord Who has the Sun, the Moon and the Fire as His

three eyes. I bow to Him Who is fond of Mukundha. I bow to Him, Who is the

refuge of all devotees and Who grants boons to them. I bow to Siva, the

creator of all auspicious things.

AUSPICIOUS DAYS AND FESTIVALS

Mondays and Pradhosham, thirteenth day of the fortnight are very auspicious

to Siva. Maha Sivarathri is celebrated in grand style with puja's and

bhajans throughout the night. Dharsan of Siva on days with 'Aardha star and

prashodam puja on Mondays and Saturdays are very auspicious.

SPECIAL OFFERINGS

Siva is Abhishekapriya, meaning one who adores sacred bath. Rudraabishekam,

Rudra homam, Mrithyunjaya homam are performed to Lord Siva. Bilva leaf,

Erukku, Thumba and Oleander flowers are auspicious to Siva.

GAYATHRI

Tathpurushaaya Vidhmahe Mahadevaaya Dheemahi

Thanno Rudra(h) Prachodayaath.

MEANING

We worship that ultimate being. Salutations to the Great Lord. May that

Rudra stimulate our faculties.