The month of Ashadh holds special spiritual significance according to the Hindu calendar. It marks the transition between two seasons—summer and monsoon. During this time, Lord Vishnu enters yogic sleep, and Lord Shiva assumes responsibility for the governance of creation. It is believed that worshipping Shiva during Ashadh leads to self-purification, mental peace, and prosperity in life. This month prepares devotees mentally and spiritually for the devotion to Shiva during Shravan.
Religious Importance of Ashadh Month
In Hinduism, Ashadh holds a special place as it signifies a time of transformation in nature. The summer heat gradually gives way to the coolness of the monsoon rains. From a religious perspective, this period is not only an opportunity to purify the body and mind but is also considered an auspicious time to direct the soul towards spirituality.
This year, the Ashadh month began on June 12th and will continue until July 10th. Shiva worship, Jalabhishek (water offering), mantra chanting, and charity performed during this period are considered particularly fruitful.
Lord Vishnu's Yogic Sleep and Shiva's Governance of Creation
Ashadh Shukla Ekadashi, known as 'Devshayani Ekadashi', falls on July 6th this year. On this day, Lord Vishnu enters yogic sleep for four months in the Kshir Sagar (Ocean of Milk). This marks the beginning of 'Chaturmas'.
During Chaturmas, Lord Vishnu's daily activities are considered suspended, and Lord Shiva takes charge of the governance of creation. It is believed that during this time, Bholenath resides on Earth with his entire family. Devotees who worship Shiva during this period are believed to receive special spiritual benefits.
Tradition and Methods of Shiva Puja
During Ashadh, waking up before sunrise, bathing, offering water to the sun, and then worshipping one's chosen deity is considered very auspicious. This is followed by the traditional ritual of performing Jalabhishek to Lord Shiva.
Abhisheka with Water and Milk on the Shivling
Jalabhishek (water offering) and Dugdhaabhishek (milk offering) hold special significance among Shiva devotees. Offering Belpatra (Bilva leaves), Datura, Bhasma (holy ash), and Ak flowers to the Shivling is also considered auspicious.
Mantra Chanting and Aarti:
Chanting the "Om Namah Shivaya" mantra, reciting the Shiva Chalisa, and performing Shiva Aarti bring mental peace and dispel negative energy from life.
Importance of Charity:
Charity holds special significance during this month. Donating grains, clothes, water vessels, umbrellas, and other essential items earns merit.
The Special Significance of Reciting the Shiva Panchakshara Stotra
The Shiva Panchakshara mantra, "Om Namah Shivaya," is considered symbolic of the five elements—earth, water, fire, air, and ether. Based on this mantra is a hymn, the Shiva Panchakshara Stotra, the regular recitation of which is believed to increase spiritual power and self-confidence.
This stotra has five verses dedicated to the letters 'Na', 'Ma', 'Shi', 'Va', and 'Ya' respectively. Each verse extols a specific attribute or form of Shiva. Its recitation is believed to lead devotees to Shiva's abode and pave the way for liberation in life.
Ashadh Month and Preparation for Shravan
Ashadh can be considered a preparatory month for Shravan. Shiva devotees use this month to strengthen their faith, practice, and discipline, preparing themselves for the Shiva worship during Shravan.
Special worship of Shiva is performed in Shravan, and by undertaking preliminary practices in Ashadh, the mind is focused. Practices undertaken during this period are believed to have a greater effect, as this time represents a period of transformation both naturally and spiritually.
Beneficial for Health and Mind
Due to changes in climate during Ashadh, various diseases may spread. Therefore, following Ayurvedic principles to maintain bodily purity and mental stability is beneficial.
Practicing yoga, meditation, and pranayama in the morning not only keeps the body healthy but also fills the mind with positive energy. Shiva worship is the simplest and most effective means of this mental purification.
Importance of Pilgrimage and Meritorious Deeds
Undertaking pilgrimages is also considered auspicious during Ashadh. Specifically, bathing in the Ganges, visiting Shiva temples, and seeing sacred rivers are ways to gain religious merit.
Those unable to go on pilgrimage for any reason can bathe with Ganges water at home, and recite the Tulsi, Gita, and Shiva Purana to earn merit.
Attaining Spiritual Peace at the Feet of Shiva
The month of Ashadh is an opportunity for humans to take a break from the hustle and bustle of life and turn towards God. This month reminds us that the true direction of life lies in spiritual progress and inner balance.
Shiva Puja is not just a religious ritual; it is also a means of purifying our souls. Any devotee who sincerely worships Bholenath receives not only mental peace but also the strength to overcome life's difficulties.
