Mumbai: During the holy month of Sawan, millions of devotees seek to please Lord Shiva by offering sacred water (jal) to the Shivling — a powerful symbol of divine energy and transformation. In Hindu tradition, this act is believed to bring the blessings of Bholenath, who is easily appeased and showers grace upon his devotees when the rituals are performed correctly.
Mondays of Sawan (Sawan Somwar), Shivratri, and Pradosh Vrat are considered especially auspicious for this offering, known as jalabhishek. However, there are specific rules and spiritual guidelines associated with this ritual that must be followed to receive its full benefits. Here’s what every devotee should know:
On the day of the ritual, one must wake up during Brahma Muhurat (approximately 1.5–2 hours before sunrise), take a bath, and wear clean clothes. Fill a copper, brass, or silver vessel with Ganga water or purified water. Add a few grains of akshat (unbroken rice), sandalwood paste, and fresh flowers to the water.
When pouring water on the Shivling, always face the northeast (Ishaan Kon) or east direction. Begin by offering water to the right side of the Shivling, followed by the left side, and then the centre. Next, pour water over the circular base of the Shivling before finally offering it directly over the top of the Shivling — believed to be the symbolic form of Lord Shiva himself.
It is essential to continuously chant the sacred mantra “Om Namah Shivaya” while performing the jalabhishek. Scriptures say this chant accelerates the blessings of Lord Shiva. Performing the ritual without mantra chanting is believed to reduce the positive effects.
Brahma Muhurat: The most ideal time for offering water is before sunrise, during the Brahma Muhurat.
Morning Hours: If not possible during Brahma Muhurat, aim to complete the jalabhishek between 4 AM and 6 AM.
Extended Morning Window: For late risers, offering water between 7 AM and 11 AM is still spiritually effective.
Water should not be poured on the Shivling after sunset or during the night. Similarly, performing this ritual during the afternoon is believed to have diminished results. Devotees are advised to stick to the morning hours to receive the full spiritual rewards.
(Disclaimer: The information provided is based on traditional beliefs and religious texts. News9 Live does not endorse or validate these claims.)
