A Jyotirlinga is the Almighty’s radiant sign (phallus symbol). The words ‘Jyoti’ and ‘linga’ imply light and sign, respectively. Lord Shiva’s radiance is known as Jyotirlinga. Aas per mythology Jyotirlinga is revered because it is said that Lord Shiva first revealed himself on Earth on the night of the Aridra Nakshatra. The Jyotirlingas do not have a distinct look. Many people think that if you reach a great degree of spiritual development, you may see these lingas as columns of fire penetrating through the earth.
There are 64 of them, and we will be highlighting the best 6. They are all said to be distinct manifestations of Lord Shiva. The “lingam,” which represents the beginning and end stambh (pillar) or Lord Shiva’s limitless nature, is the main image of all these lingas. The 6 top Jyotirlingas and their story of existence are being discussed here. If you are planning to experience these religious symbols all by yourself or with family, read on to get exclusive details, but do not forget to get your online hotel booking completed to enjoy a comfortable stay.
Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Maharashtra
The Bhimashankar Temple is located in Pune, Maharashtra, in the Sahyadri area. The tale of this Jyotirlinga’s existence is linked to Kumbhakarna’s son Bhima. Bhima promised to avenge Lord Vishnu after learning that he was the son of Kumbhakarana, who was obliterated by Lord Vishnu in his incarnation as Lord Ram. He did penance to appease Lord Brahma, who bestowed tremendous strength upon him.
He began unleashing devastation on the planet after attaining this level of power. He overcame Kamrupeshwar, a devout follower of Lord Shiva, and imprisoned him in the dungeons. The Lords were enraged, and Shiva was summoned on Earth to put a stop to the oppression. The Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga was Shiva’s next manifestation. The Bhima River is said to have been created by the perspiration that flowed from Shiva’s body after the fight.
Kashi Vishwanath Varanasi
It is located in the congested alleyways of Banaras also known as India’s holiest city (Varanasi). The Shivalinga, more than the Ghats and Ganga of Varanasi, is the pilgrims’ spiritual focus. Banaras is said to be the location where the first Jyotirlinga demonstrated its superiority over other gods by breaking through the earth’s crust and blazing into the sky.
This temple is considered to be the most sacred to Lord Shiva, and those who die here are said to be liberated. Many think that Shiva, the provider of freedom and bliss, once lived here. This temple has been renovated numerous times, yet its ultimate importance has never changed.
Kedarnath Jyotirlinga
The Kedarnath Temple, one of India’s holiest pilgrimage destinations, is situated atop the Rudra Himalaya Range’s Kedar mountain. Haridwar is roughly 150 kilometres away. The temple housing the Jyotirlinga is only open for six months of the year. The pilgrimage to Kedarnath is traditionally preceded by a journey to Yamunotri and Gangotri.
According to mythology, Lord Shiva took up permanent residence in Kedarnath in the shape of this Jyotirlinga after being delighted by the extreme penance of the Nara and Narayana – two incarnations of Lord Vishnu. People think that by praying at this location, one can have all of their wishes granted.
Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, MP
Mahakaleshwar Temple is situated in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, on the banks of river Kshipra, amid the thick Mahakal forest. In Madhya Pradesh Central India, this Jyotirlinga is a significant pilgrimage spot. There are several tales surrounding the creation of this Jyotirlinga.
According to the Puranas, a five-year-old child named Shrikar was fascinated by King Chandrasena of Ujjain’s devotion to Lord Shiva. Shrikar picked a stone and pretended to be Shiva. Many others attempted to persuade him in various ways, but his love just became stronger. Lord Shiva took the shape of a Jyotirlinga and lived in the Mahakal forest, pleased by his devotion. It is also one of the seven “Mukti-Sthals” — places where a person can be liberated.
Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga Andhra Pradesh
The Mallikarjuna Temple is located on the Shri Shaila Mountain in Andhra Pradesh’s southern region, on the banks of the Krishna River. It is also known as the “Kailash of the South” and is one of India’s most important Shaivite temples. Mallikarjuna (Shiva) and Bhramaramba are the temple’s presiding deities (Devi).
Lord Ganesha was married off before Kartikeya, according to the Shiva Purana, which enraged Kartikeya. He headed towards Kraunch Mountain. All the Gods attempted, but in vain, to soothe him. They were devastated to see him in such a plight, so Shiva took the shape of a Jyotirlinga and took up residence on the peak known as Mallikarjuna. People believe that by simply witnessing the peak of this mountain, one is cleansed of all sins and set free from the cycle of life and death.
Rameshwar Jyotirlinga Tamil Nadu
Rameshwar Temple is situated on Rameshwaram island, the coast of Tamil Nadu, and is the southernmost of the 64 total Jyotirlingas. The architecture of this monument is well-known, particularly the lengthy elaborate halls, 36 theerthams and towers. This amazing Jyotirlinga is linked to the Ramayana and Ram’s triumphant homecoming from Sri Lanka.
Ram is said to have halted at Rameshwaram on his route to Sri Lanka and was sipping water from the beach when a celestial proclamation was made. Ram created a linga out of the sand and worshipped it, asking for its blessings to slay Ravana. He received Lord Shiva’s blessings, after which he transformed into a Jyotirlinga and stayed at the location for all eternity.
Here are the 6 biggest and famous Jyotirlingas in India, which will fill your mind and heart with devotion for sure.
