Parikrama

Parikrama of Lord Shiva involves circumambulating the Shiva Lingam or a sacred shrine, typically done in odd numbers, as an act of devotion and respect.

Parikrama or Pradakshina is a significant devotional practice in Hinduism, particularly in the worship of Lord Shiva. It involves walking around a sacred object or deity, in this case, the Shiva Lingam or a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, in a clockwise direction. This ritual is a form of showing reverence, seeking blessings, and connecting with the divine.

Spiritual Significance:

Symbolism: Parikrama symbolizes the cycle of life, death, and rebirth, which is central to Lord Shiva's role as the destroyer and transformer in the Hindu trinity. The act of circumambulation represents the devotee's journey through life while keeping the divine at the center.

Purification: It is believed that performing Parikrama purifies the mind, body, and soul, helping devotees shed negative karma and progress on their spiritual path.

Devotion and Surrender: The act of walking around the deity signifies surrender and devotion, acknowledging the supreme power of Lord Shiva and placing him at the center of one's life.

How to Perform Parikrama:

Preparation: Before starting Parikrama, devotees often perform a ritual bath and wear clean clothes. They may also perform initial prayers and offerings to Lord Shiva.

Direction: The Parikrama is performed in a clockwise direction, symbolizing auspiciousness and alignment with the cosmic order.

Number of Circuits: Parikrama is typically performed in odd numbers such as 3, 5, or 7 circuits. Each number has its own significance:

Three Circuits (3): Represent the three aspects of existence - creation, preservation, and destruction.

Five Circuits (5): Symbolize the five elements (earth, water, fire, air, and ether) and the five senses.

Seven Circuits (7): Represent the seven chakras (energy centers) in the human body.

Steps of Parikrama:

Start with a Prayer: Begin by standing in front of the Shiva Lingam or the main deity's idol, offering a prayer or chant such as "Om Namah Shivaya".

Circumambulation: Walk slowly and mindfully around the Shiva Lingam or the temple. Keep the deity or the sacred object on your right side, maintaining a clockwise direction.

Chanting Mantras: While performing Parikrama, devotees often chant Shiva mantras, such as "Om Namah Shivaya" or the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra, to stay focused and invoke divine blessings.

Offerings: During each circuit, devotees may offer flowers, Bilva leaves, or sprinkle holy water on the Shiva Lingam.

Completion: After completing the desired number of circuits, devotees conclude with a final prayer, seeking Lord Shiva's blessings for themselves and their loved ones.

Special Occasions for Parikrama:

Maha Shivaratri: Performing Parikrama on this night is considered highly auspicious and is believed to bring immense spiritual benefits.

Pradosh Vrat: Circumambulation during the twilight period before the full moon and new moon is particularly powerful for gaining Lord Shiva's blessings.

Sawan Month: The month of Shravan (July-August) is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and performing Parikrama during this time holds special significance.

Temples Famous for Parikrama:

Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi: One of the most revered Shiva temples where devotees perform Parikrama around the sacred Jyotirlinga.

Somnath Temple, Gujarat: Another prominent Shiva temple known for its spiritual energy and the practice of Parikrama.

Kedarnath Temple, Uttarakhand: Pilgrims undertake Parikrama in this remote Himalayan shrine, seeking divine blessings from the Lord of the Mountains.

Amarnath Cave, Jammu and Kashmir: Devotees perform Parikrama around the naturally formed ice Lingam during the annual pilgrimage.

Parikrama is a profound spiritual practice that helps devotees express their unwavering devotion, seek divine grace, and experience a deeper connection with Lord Shiva.