As the month of Sawan arrives, temples witness a surge in the crowds of devotees of Lord Shiva. This period is considered the most sacred for the worship and devotion of Lord Shiva. Especially on Sawan Mondays, people attempt to please Bholenath (Lord Shiva) by offering water, milk, bel leaves, and other puja materials on the Shivling.
However, many people are unaware of what should be offered first on the Shivling. Should one offer bel leaves first or water? To find the answer to this question, devotees seek advice from the internet to priests.
How to Begin Puja on the Shivling
According to religious beliefs and ancient scriptures, the worship of the Shivling begins with the offering of water. This is called 'Abhishek.' Performing the water abhishek purifies the Shivling and is considered a means to pacify and please Lord Shiva.
Only after offering water are bel leaves, milk, curd, honey, and other puja materials offered.
Why It Is Essential to Offer Water First
Various religious texts, such as the Shiva Purana and Skanda Purana, mention that Lord Shiva is especially fond of water. Offering water is associated with the purification of the body, mind, and environment. It is not only a part of the beginning of the puja but also activates the energy of the Shivling.
It is believed that if Gangajal (water from the Ganges) is available, it is the most auspicious. Water from other holy rivers like the Yamuna, Godavari, Narmada, and Krishna can also be used.
The Importance of Bel Leaves, But Later in Sequence
Bel leaves are Lord Shiva's most beloved leaves. They have three leaves, which are considered to symbolize the Trinetra (three eyes), the Trinity (Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh), and the Triguna (three qualities). However, they should be offered after offering water.
During the puja, it is considered auspicious to offer 3, 5, 7, 9, or 11 bel leaves. While offering them, one should chant the mantra 'Om Namah Shivaya' on each leaf.
Pay Special Attention to the Rules of Puja
There are some traditional beliefs associated with Shiva Puja that must be followed. One should take a bath and wear clean clothes before the puja.
- Bel leaves should not be torn or damaged
- The stalk on the bel leaf should be removed
- Turmeric, sindoor (vermilion), and ketaki flowers should not be offered on the Shivling
- During the puja, your face should be towards the east
- Use a clean vessel while offering milk or Panchamrit (a mixture of five ingredients) on the Shivling
These Things Are Also Used in Shiva Puja
Apart from water and bel leaves, many other items are offered to Lord Shiva in the puja. These include milk, curd, ghee (clarified butter), honey, and sugar, which are mixed to make Panchamrit. In addition, bhang (cannabis), dhatura (thorn apple), and white flowers are traditionally offered to Shivji.
In some places, sugarcane juice, coconut water, and sandalwood paste are also offered on the Shivling.
The Significance of Puja in Both Morning and Evening During Sawan
During the month of Sawan, Shiva devotees wake up early in the morning, take a bath, and offer water on the Shivling. It is believed that the puja performed during the Brahma Muhurta (the auspicious time before sunrise) in this month yields special benefits.
In addition, the evening, or the time of dusk, is also considered significant for Shiva Puja. Especially on Sawan Mondays, if someone worships Lord Shiva with full devotion and adherence to the rules, their wishes are fulfilled.
Offer Water to Bholenath with a Sincere Heart
It is a popular belief that if a devotee offers even a pot of water to the Shivling with a sincere heart, Lord Shiva becomes pleased. This is why, during the month of Sawan, people come from far and wide with water to offer at the temples and on the Shivling.
From villages to cities, towns, and even big cities, there is a huge crowd at temples on Sawan Mondays, and every devotee desires to obtain the blessings of Lord Shiva by offering their favorite items.
These Things Have Special Importance
- The water should be pure and clean, without any impurities
- The bel leaf should have three leaves and be connected to a single stalk
- No other deity's name should be written on the bel leaf
- The materials offered on the Shivling should not be reused
- While performing the puja, chant Shiva mantras with a focused mind and attention
