How to do pradakshina in Shiva Temple? Generally, whenever we go to a temple, we complete a pradakshina or circumambulation around the idol. And that is one of the most basic things that one do when one visits a temple. However, we do not worship every idol or goddess in the same way. Similarly, Hindus generally only complete a half-circumambulate around shiva lingam. In the following excerpt, you will get the answer to this and the significance of shiva lingam.
Pure Scientific Significance of Shiva Lingam
In the case of the Shiva lingam, we go around only half the distance and do not complete the circle for scientific reasons. And believe it or not, the reason is purely scientific. Well, the purpose of circumambulation is to receive divine vibrations. These vibrations are those that flow out of the deity’s image and enter into our body. This leads us to benefit as we go around the idol or the shiva lingam.
How to do pradakshina in Shiva Temple?
However, the catch is that this is only true of celebrated religious places where regular pujas are held. Enlightened souls and pundits carry out these tasks following the details laid down in the holy books. In such cases, the divine vibes flow out of the idols evenly.
One cannot claim this phenomenon in the case of common or roadside temples. Because this is where people conduct pujas for the primary aim of making money. They do not do it for any external spiritual gain. Also, in such temples, one does not install the idols ceremoniously. They don’t conduct a proper prana pratishtha ritual. Therefore, these idols are not very vibrant.
The Unique Aspect Of Shiva Lingam
Well, ordinarily, divine energy flows out evenly from the relic of the gods and goddesses. But the case of the Shiva lingam is unique and different. It is different in the aspect of its shape. Because of this shape, the energy gushes out forcefully from the outlet of the female part, the yoni, of the idol. And to ward off the thrust of this energy, there is a correct way to circumambulate a Shiva lingam. It is to go around from the left of the yoni and walk up to the right of it and then return to the left side without crossing the mouth of the yoni.
The reason being that one’s genital area is vulnerable in front of such high energy. The flow of the energy emanating out of that part of the image isn’t very favourable. There are several types of vayus or winds in the human body. Two of them are Devadatta and Dhananjaya that are related to our respective reproductive system. The exposure of one’s genital to that force of energy can harm the person. There is a belief that crossing the mouth of the yoni, particularly, that of male devotees isn’t a good omen.
Therefore, now you know why Hindus complete only a half-circle around Shiva Lingam. So make sure you convey it to your relatives and colleagues who needs to hear it today. Rituals and ceremonies that are in practice for ages aren’t for nothing. Every little ritual has a meaning to it and it’s always good to know about it.
