The 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva symbolize his divine power and glory, offering devotees a path to salvation and peace across India.
Lord Shiva, known as Bholenath, is a central figure in Indian religion and culture. The 12 Jyotirlingas are sacred sites dedicated to him, each with unique religious and historical significance. Let’s explore these 12 Jyotirlingas.
Religious significance of Jyotirlinga
Worshiping and visiting Jyotirlingas is believed to destroy sins and lead to salvation. Devotees receive Lord Shiva’s blessings, bringing happiness, prosperity, and peace. The pilgrimage to these sacred sites is a significant religious act for Hindus.
Each Jyotirlinga has unique significance and mythology, making them special. Visiting all 12 is considered a vital spiritual experience for devotees.
1. Somnath Jyotirlinga (Gujarat):
The Somnath Temple, located in Saurashtra, Gujarat, is considered the first Jyotirlinga of India. According to mythology, it was established by Chandradev, who performed penance here to lift King Daksha’s curse. The ancient temple has a rich history, having been demolished and rebuilt multiple times.
2. Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga (Andhra Pradesh):
This Jyotirlinga in Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh, known as the Kashi of the South, honors Lord Shiva and Mother Parvati. Mythology says Shiva and Parvati resided here to persuade their son Kartikeya when he moved south in anger.
3. Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga (Madhya Pradesh):
This Jyotirlinga in Ujjain is a sacred site known for its famous Mahakal Aarti and Bhasma Aarti, attracting many devotees. Darshan at the Mahakaleshwar temple is considered highly auspicious.
4. Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga (Madhya Pradesh):
This Jyotirlinga, located on the Narmada River in Khandwa district, Madhya Pradesh, is known as Omkareshwar. According to the Puranas, after the gods were defeated by demons, they prayed to Lord Bholenath for protection. Lord Shiva answered their prayers, defeated the demons, and established the Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga.
5. Kedarnath Jyotirlinga (Uttarakhand):
The Kedarnath Jyotirlinga is nestled in the Himalayas at a high altitude, making it a challenging pilgrimage. Devotees are drawn here by their faith. According to mythology, the Pandavas performed penance to Lord Shiva at this site after the Mahabharata war.
6. Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga (Maharashtra):
This Jyotirlinga in Pune district, Maharashtra, is known for its unique architecture and as the origin of the Bhima River. Lord Shiva defeated the demon Tripurasura here, leading to the name Bhimashankar.
7. Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga (Uttar Pradesh):
Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga located in Varanasi has its own special significance. This place is considered to be the main center for attaining salvation.
8. Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga (Maharashtra):
This Jyotirlinga near Nashik, at the Godavari river’s origin, worships Lord Shiva in his Tryambaka form. It is featured in the Mrityunjaya Mantra for immortality and is notable for its three faces, representing Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Rudra.
9. Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga (Jharkhand):
This Jyotirlinga in Deoghar, Jharkhand, known as Vaidyanath Dham or Kamana Linga, is believed to fulfill all devotees’ wishes. A special fair is held here during Shivaratri.
10. Nageshwar Jyotirlinga (Gujarat):
The Nageshwar Jyotirlinga near Dwarka, on the seashore, is significant for worshiping the Nageshwar form of Lord Shiva. Mythology says it is located in Darukavan, where Nageshwar, the lord of snakes, is revered.
11. Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga (Tamil Nadu):
Located on Rameshwaram island in Tamil Nadu, this Jyotirlinga is associated with the Ramayana. The Shivlinga established by Lord Rama is worshipped here, bringing blessings from both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu.
12. Ghrishneshwar Jyotirlinga (Maharashtra):
Located in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, this Jyotirlinga is known as Ghrishneshwar or Ghushmeshwar. According to legend, Lord Shiva established it here after being pleased with the penance of the devotee Ghushma.
