Day & deity
Introduction
Monday is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the embodiment of ultimate consciousness and simplicity. Performing a simple Abhishekam (ritual bath) on a Shivling at home brings mental peace, clarity, and liberation from stress.
Abhishekam Samagri
- Small Shivling and a deep copper/brass plate (Jaladhari tray)
- Fresh water in a copper pot (Lota)
- Raw cow milk (Kachha Doodh)
- Belpatra (Bael leaves) - 3 or 5 undamaged leaves
- White Sandalwood paste (Bhasma or Chandan)
- White flowers or Dhatura (if available)
- Diya with Ghee and Incense
- Prasad (Sugar crystals/Mishri or seasonal fruits)
Step-by-step procedure
Step 1
Sthapana (Placement of Shivling)
Shastri Ji says: Place the Shivling inside a deep plate so that the bathing liquid collects neatly. Ensure the North direction faces the spout (Jaladhari) of the Shivling.
ॐ नमः शिवाय
Step 2
Jal & Doodh Abhishekam (Ritual Bath)
Pour fresh water slowly over the Shivling while continuously chanting 'Om Namah Shivaya'. Next, pour raw milk gently in a thin, steady stream. Conclude by pouring pure water once again to clean the Shivling.
ॐ नमः शिवायश्री शिवाय नमस्तुभ्यम्
Step 3
Shringaar & Belpatra Offerings (Adornment)
Wipe the Shivling gently with a clean cloth. Apply white sandalwood paste or Bhasma across the Shivling in three horizontal lines (Tripundra). Offer Belpatra with the smooth side facing the Shivling.
त्रिदलं त्रिगुणाकारं त्रिनेत्रं च त्रयायुधम् ।त्रिजन्मपापसंहारं एकबिल्वं शिवार्पणम् ॥
Step 4
Bhog & Shiva Aarti (Offerings & Aarti)
Offer fruits or Mishri as Bhog. Light the Ghee lamp and incense, ring the bell with your left hand, and perform Shiva Aarti.
जय शिव ओंकारा, हर ॐ शिव ओंकारा