Nirvana Shatkam is a set of six Sanskrit verses composed by Adi Shankaracharya that describe the nature of the Self as pure consciousness, beyond the mind, body, and ego. In a world full of noise, stress, and constant mental chatter, the ancient verses of Nirvana Shatkam offer a powerful invitation: to remember who you truly are beyond the mind, body, and ego. These six timeless verses aren’t just poetry — they are a declaration of freedom from suffering and a direct path to inner peace.

Whether you're a seeker, a meditator, or someone simply curious about Vedantic wisdom, understanding and chanting Nirvana Shatkam can shift your awareness from chaos to clarity. This article gently guides you through its meaning, benefits, and the correct way to chant it — not just with the tongue, but from the depth of your inner being.

Nirvana Shatkam

This article explores the heart of Nirvana Shatkam, delving into its meanings of the six verses, understanding its significance, historical roots, and unraveling its myriad benefits and blessings. It bestows upon those who tread the path of self-discovery, and self-realization.

Chanting Nirvana Shatkam is a personal and contemplative practice. Adjust the frequency and duration based on your schedule and comfort. Whether daily or occasional, chanting and meditating on Nirvana Shatkam can be a transformative tool on your journey towards self-realization and unity with the divine.

The verses of Nirvana Shatkam serve as a guiding light, illuminating the path toward profound spiritual awakening and a deeper connection with timeless truths embedded in the fabric of human consciousness. The declaration "Shivoham" in Nirvana Shatkam aligns with the essence of identifying oneself with the supreme consciousness embodied by Lord Shiva.

Nirvana Shatakam Meaning

Nirvana means "liberation" or "freedom" from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara). It is a state of ultimate peace, enlightenment, and unity with the Supreme Consciousness.

Shatkam means "six" (from Sanskrit "Shat" meaning six). It refers to a group of six verses or stanzas.

So, "Nirvana Shatkam" translates to "The Six Verses of Liberation", where each verse describes the realization of the true self beyond ego, mind, and body.

At the personal, inner level, Nirvana Shatkam emphasizes the essential nature of the Atman (individual soul), urging the practitioner again and again to recognize their true identity as pure consciousness, beyond the mind, ego, and body.

Nirvana means liberation from the cycle of samsara (birth, death, and rebirth). The chant symbolizes breaking free from mental attachments, desires, and the illusion of separateness, allowing one to experience inner peace and self-realization.

Cosmic meaning of the mantra: Just as an individual realizes their freedom from the limitations of ego, in a cosmic sense, the whole universe is also bound to the cycle of birth and rebirth until it achieves liberation (moksha). The chant echoes the vision that cosmic freedom is possible when the individual realizes their oneness with the infinite, thus contributing to the collective liberation of all.

What is Nirvana Shatkam?

"Nirvana Shatkam," meaning the six verses of liberation, was composed by Adi Shankaracharya, the great Indian philosopher and teacher of Advaita Vedanta. The verses point to the Atman as eternal, changeless, and pure. The more one contemplates these verses, the closer one comes to the realization that they are not the "doer" or the "experiencer," but the witness consciousness that pervades all existence.

Nirvana Shatkam, also known as Atma Shatkam, the Shivoham mantra, or Mano Buddhi Ahankara ChittaNi Naham mantra, comprises six powerful verses that serve as a guiding light for seekers on the path of self-realization. In these verses, Adi Shankaracharya eloquently dissects the layers of human identity and reveals the eternal truth of one's divine essence.

It is traditionally associated with Shankara’s teachings and is often recited as part of the Advaita tradition, but it does not come from a larger scripture like the Vedas or Upanishads.

Each verse begins with negation like—"I am not the mind, intellect, ego, or memory"—and culminates in the affirmation: "Chidananda Rupa Shivoham Shivoham"

(I am pure consciousness and bliss. I am Shiva. I am Shiva.)

Why is Nirvana Shatkam So Important?

The significance of Nirvana Shatkam lies in its ability to lead individuals towards self-awareness and spiritual awakening. The verses guide the seeker to recognize the impermanent nature of worldly identities and attachments, ultimately pointing towards the realization of the eternal, unchanging self. By emphasizing the negation of various aspects of the ego and affirming the true nature as pure consciousness and bliss (Shiva), the Nirvana Shatkam serves as a powerful tool for transcending the illusions of the material world.

Benefits and Blessings:

1. Self-Realization: Chanting the Nirvana Shatkam helps in cultivating self-awareness and realizing the true nature of the self beyond the transient aspects of the ego.
2. Emotional Equanimity: The verses guide practitioners towards detachment from dualities, fostering emotional balance and resilience in the face of life's challenges.
3. Spiritual Transformation: Regular recitation of the Nirvana Shatkam can lead to a profound spiritual transformation, helping individuals move beyond superficial identifications and recognize their oneness with the divine.
4. Clarity of Thought: The philosophical depth of the verses enhances mental clarity, providing insights into the nature of reality and the purpose of life.
5. Freedom from Attachments: The negation of various aspects of identity in the verses encourages liberation from attachments, paving the way for a more liberated and fulfilling life.
6. Inner Peace: The contemplative nature of the Nirvana Shatkam fosters inner peace, allowing practitioners to experience a sense of tranquility amidst life's ups and downs.
7. Connection with the Divine: By affirming the essence as pure consciousness and bliss (Shiva), the practitioner establishes a profound connection with the divine, fostering a sense of spiritual fulfillment.

When to Chant Nirvana Shatkam:

1. Morning Rituals: Consider chanting Nirvana Shatkam during your morning rituals. The serene atmosphere and the fresh start of the day can enhance the impact of these sacred verses.
2. Evening Contemplation: Chanting Nirvana Shatkam in the evening can serve as a reflective practice, helping you unwind from the day's activities and fostering a sense of inner peace.
3. Meditation Sessions: Integrate Nirvana Shatkam into your meditation sessions. The rhythmic chanting can act as a powerful mantra, aiding in focusing the mind and deepening your meditative experience.
4. Special Occasions: Choose significant occasions such as festivals, birthdays, or personal milestones to chant Nirvana Shatkam. It can add a spiritual dimension to these moments, fostering a deeper connection with your inner self.

The Six Verses: The Guiding Lights

These six verses serve as a guiding light on your path towards self-illumination and realizing the eternal truth of Brahman. 

Verse 1: Transcending the Limits of Mind and Ego

मनो बुद्धिअहंकार चित्तानि नाहं न च श्रोत्रजिह्वे न च घ्राणनेत्रे ।
न च व्योम भूमिर्न तेजो न वायुः चिदानन्दरूपः शिवोऽहम् शिवोऽहम् ॥१॥

manobuddhi ahaṅkāra cittāni nāhaṃ na ca śrotrajihve na ca ghrāṇanetre ।
na ca vyoma bhūmirna tejo na vāyuḥ cidānandarūpaḥ śivoham śivoham ॥1॥

Explanation:

In this verse, release yourself from the mental and sensory aspects, disidentifying with the mind, intellect, ego, and memory. Let go of attachment to the senses of hearing, taste, smell, and sight, as well as the elements of ether, earth, fire, water, and air. Affirm your essence as pure consciousness and bliss, declaring, "You are Shiva."

Verse 2: Transcending the Limits of Vital Functions

न च प्राणसंज्ञो न वै पञ्चवायुः न वा सप्तधातुः न वा पञ्चकोशः ।
न वाक्पाणिपादं न चोपस्थपायु चिदानन्दरूपः शिवोऽहम् शिवोऽहम् ॥२॥

na ca prāṇasaṃjño na vai pañcavāyuḥ na vā saptadhātuḥ na vā pañcakośaḥ ।
na vākpāṇipādaṃ na copasthapāyu cidānandarūpaḥ śivoham śivoham ॥2॥

Explanation:

In this verse, detach yourself from the life force, the five vital airs, the seven elements of the body, and the five sheaths covering your true self. Let go of attachment to the organs of speech, hands, feet, and the lower region. Reiterate your essential nature as pure consciousness and bliss, proclaiming, "You are Shiva."

Verse 3: Equanimity Beyond Your Dualities

न मे द्वेषरागौ न मे लोभमोहौ  मदो नैव मे नैव मात्सर्यभावः ।
न धर्मो न चार्थो न कामो न मोक्षः  चिदानन्दरूपः शिवोऽहम् शिवोऽहम् ॥३॥

na me dveṣarāgau na me lobhamohau mado naiva me naiva mātsaryabhāvaḥ ।
na dharmo na cārtho na kāmo na mokṣaḥ cidānandarūpaḥ śivoham śivoham ॥3॥

Explanation:

In this verse, embrace a state of equanimity, free from aversion, attachment, greed, and delusion. Let go of pride and jealousy. Disclaim attachment to righteousness, worldly goals, desires, and even liberation. Your essence remains pure consciousness and bliss, echoing, "You are Shiva."

Verse 4: Beyond Your Rituals and Desires

न पुण्यं न पापं न सौख्यं न दुःखं  न मन्त्रो न तीर्थं न वेदा न यज्ञाः ।
अहं भोजनं नैव भोज्यं न भोक्ता  चिदानन्दरूपः शिवोऽहम् शिवोऽहम् ॥४॥

na puṇyaṃ na pāpaṃ na saukhyaṃ na duḥkhaṃ  na mantro na tīrthaṃ na vedā na yajñāḥ ।
ahaṃ bhojanaṃ naiva bhojyaṃ na bhoktā  cidānandarūpaḥ śivoham śivoham ॥4॥

Explanation:

In this verse, relinquish the notions of virtue, sin, happiness, and sorrow. Let go of the significance of mantras, pilgrimage places, scriptures, and rituals. Neither the act of eating, the food, nor the eater holds relevance. The affirmed reality is pure consciousness and bliss, affirming, "You are Shiva."

Verse 5: Transcending Your Birth and Death

न मृत्युर्न शङ्का न मे जातिभेदः  पिता नैव मे नैव माता न जन्मः ।
न बन्धुर्न मित्रं गुरुर्नैव शिष्यं  चिदानन्दरूपः शिवोऽहम् शिवोऽहम् ॥५॥

"na mṛtyurna śaṅkā na me jātibhedaḥ  pitā naiva me naiva mātā na janmaḥ ।
na bandhurna mitraṃ gururnaiva śiṣyaṃ  cidānandarūpaḥ śivo'ham śivo'ham" ॥5॥

Explanation:

In this verse, transcend the fear of death and the distinctions of birth. Disclaim having a father, mother, or birth. Release attachment to relatives, friends, teacher, and disciple. Your affirmed reality is pure consciousness and bliss, echoing, "You are Shiva."

Verse 6: The Formless and Omnipresent Self

अहं निर्विकल्पो निराकाररूपो  विभुत्वाच्च सर्वत्र सर्वेन्द्रियाणाम् ।
न चासङ्गतं नैव मुक्तिर्न मेयः  चिदानन्दरूपः शिवोऽहम् शिवोऽहम् ॥६॥

ahaṃ nirvikalpo nirākārarūpo  vibhutvācca sarvatra sarvendriyāṇām ।
na cāsaṅgataṃ naiva muktirna meyaḥ  cidānandarūpaḥ śivo'ham śivo'ham ॥6॥

Explanation:

In this concluding verse, recognize your formless and attributeless nature. Realize your all-pervading presence within all senses. Embrace eternal equanimity, transcending both liberation and bondage. Affirm your reality as pure consciousness and bliss, declaring, "You are Shiva."

How to Chant Nirvana Shatkam Correctly

Chanting Nirvana Shatkam is not merely a vocal exercise — it's a meditative act of self-realization. To truly receive its transformative power, approach the chant with mindfulness, humility, and intention.

✅ 1. Create a Sacred Space

Find a quiet, clean space where you won’t be disturbed. You may light a candle or incense to mark the transition from outer activity to inner stillness.

✅ 2. Sit Comfortably and Center Yourself

Sit in a relaxed posture with your spine erect — either cross-legged on the floor or on a chair. Take a few deep breaths and bring your awareness inward.

✅ 3. Start with Intention (Sankalpa)

Before chanting, silently set an intention — such as “May I realize my true nature” or “Let this chant guide me beyond ego.”

✅ 4. Chant Slowly and Mindfully

Pronounce each Sanskrit word clearly. Don’t rush. Allow the vibration of each verse to settle into your body and mind.

Example from the first verse:

Mano Buddhi Ahankara Chittani Naham

(I am not the mind, intellect, ego, or memory)

Pause after each line. Let it echo within you. This is not about performance — it’s about presence.

✅ 5. Use a Reliable Audio or Teacher

If you're new to Sanskrit, it helps to learn the correct pronunciation through a traditional teacher or a trusted recording. Chanting with proper intonation enhances its spiritual impact.

✅ 6. Repeat It Daily

Consistency deepens the experience. Even if you chant just one verse a day with full awareness, the effects accumulate over time.

✅ 7. Chant With Bhava (Feeling)

It’s not enough to say the words — feel them. Chant as if you are shedding every label and identity, returning to the truth of your Being.

History of Nirvana Shatkam:

Adi Shankaracharya, an eminent Indian philosopher and theologian from the early medieval period, is credited with composing the Nirvana Shatkam. Born in the 8th century CE, Shankaracharya is renowned for reviving the Advaita Vedanta school of thought, emphasizing the non-dual nature of reality.

During his brief yet impactful life, he traveled across India, engaging in philosophical debates and composing numerous texts that continue to influence spiritual seekers to this day. The Nirvana Shatkam stands as a testament to his deep insights into the nature of the self and the quest for ultimate truth.

 

The Science Behind Nirvana Shatkam

While Nirvana Shatkam is rooted in Advaita Vedanta, its transformative power also resonates with discoveries in modern neuroscience, psychology, and consciousness studies.

From a neuroscientific standpoint, the practice of reciting and contemplating Nirvana Shatkam may influence brain function in several ways:

• Default Mode Network: Studies on meditation suggest practices that promote non-identification with thoughts may reduce activity in the brain's default mode network, associated with self-referential thinking.
• Studies show that ego-dissolving practices (like mantra meditation [1], non-attachment [2] or mystical experiences) reduce DMN activity, leading to feelings of expanded consciousness and non-duality — just like the essence of Shivoham.

Alpha & Theta Brainwaves

The slow, repetitive chanting of Nirvana Shatkam activates:

• Alpha waves (8–12 Hz): linked to calm, relaxed alertness
• Theta waves (4–8 Hz): associated with deep meditation and access to the subconscious This state fosters neuroplasticity, enabling deep shifts in identity perception and trauma healing.

Quantum Resonance with Consciousness

In Quantum Consciousness or quantum-inspired cognitive models (like the Quantum Attention Framework), the self is not a fixed identity but a field of dynamic awareness.

• Nirvana Shatkam mirrors this idea by pointing beyond time, thought, and memory to a non-local, observer consciousness.
• The final declaration “I am Shiva, pure awareness” corresponds to a quantum state of unconditioned being — an attractor field of wholeness.

Summary of Nirvana Shatkam:

1. Identification and Detachment: The verses systematically negate various aspects of human identity, such as the mind, intellect, ego, and sensory experiences. This process of negation, or "neti neti" (not this, not this), guides the seeker towards detachment from transient aspects of the self.
2. Pure Consciousness and Bliss: Amidst the negation, Nirvana Shatkam affirms the true nature of the self as pure consciousness and bliss (Shiva). By declaring "Shivoham" (I am Shiva) in each verse, the seeker acknowledges their divine essence beyond the limitations of the ego and the material world.
3. Beyond Dualities and Attachments: The hymn encourages the practitioner to rise above dualities, such as love and hate, pleasure and pain, and to relinquish attachments to worldly concepts of virtue, sin, and rituals. The seeker embraces a state of equanimity, recognizing the unity of all existence.

Embracing Your Divine Essence

As you reflect on these verses, let them serve as a guiding light on your spiritual journey. Embrace the wisdom within, disidentify from the transient aspects of existence, and realize the eternal truth of your divine essence.

Infuse your chanting with a sense of devotion and sincerity. Let each repetition be a heartfelt expression of your connection with the divine.

The Nirvana Shatkam invites you to go beyond rituals, dualities, and the limitations of birth and death, acknowledging the infinite and blissful nature that resides within you.

In the sacred journey of self-discovery, remember that "You are Shiva," the embodiment of pure consciousness and bliss, forever free from the illusions of the world.

FAQS

Who wrote Nirvana Shatakam?

It was written by Adi Shankaracharya, a great Indian philosopher and saint of the 8th century.

What are the Protocols for Reciting the Mantra

Reciting Nirvana Shatkam is a sacred act that goes beyond sound — it is a deep contemplative journey into the Self. Following a respectful and mindful approach enhances its spiritual effect.

Ideal Time for Chanting

• Brahma Muhurta (early morning) is considered most powerful (around 4:00–6:00 AM).
• Alternatively, chant during sunrise, sunset, or just before meditation.
• If morning is not possible, any quiet time when the mind is calm is good.

Face Direction (Optional)

• Traditionally, facing east or north is considered auspicious during spiritual practices.

Chanting Style

• Chant slowly, clearly, and with feeling (bhava).
• Do not rush — pause after each line and reflect on its meaning.
• Use proper Sanskrit pronunciation, based on your mother tongue, so that bhava is not disturbed.

Do I need to be Hindu or follow Advaita to chant it?

No. The verses express universal truth about consciousness and identity. Anyone seeking self-inquiry can benefit.

Can I chant Nirvana Shatkam without knowing Sanskrit?

Yes — start with transliterations and listen to accurate recitations. Over time, you'll naturally pick up pronunciation and meaning.

How often should I chant it?

Even once daily is transformative. If you're called, you can chant it three or 108 times, especially during meditation or spiritual retreats.

Is it okay to chant silently in the mind?

Absolutely. Silent chanting is powerful when the mind is calm and focused. Begin aloud if you're new, then move inward.

What are the benefits of chanting Nirvana Shatkam?

• Clarity of identity beyond ego
• Deep inner peace and stillness
• Dissolution of mental patterns
• Spiritual awakening and realization of the Self

Do I need a guru to recite Nirvana Shatkam?

While guidance helps, the verses are self-revealing. With sincerity and reflection, the mantra becomes your teacher.

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Lord Shiva is the divine cosmic ocean of peace, wisdom, and love. He is the Lord of inner peace, self-realization, spiritual growth, yoga, meditations, and devotions. This 9-week course provides a comprehensive understanding of Lord Shiva, his various aspects, mantras, and the meditative practices associated with his divine presence, as well as the profound power of Lord Shiva in meditations.

Discover the essence of the Sri Rudram, Shiva Sutras, and other Shiva traditions, and explore the cosmic dimensions of Shiva's abode, Shiva Loka. Immerse yourself in the devotional power of the main stotras dedicated to Lord Shiva, including the Sri Rudram, Shiva Tandava Stotra, Nataraja Stotra, and more.

Explore the compassion and love embodied by Shiva and connect with his diverse aspects. Learn the multifaceted aspects of Lord Shiva, exploring his symbolism, mythology, and profound meditative practices.

Shiva is depicted with a third eye, representing his all-seeing wisdom, and a crescent moon on his head, symbolizing the passage of time. Learn the wisdom Lord Shiva and the awakening of the third eye.

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Our courses primarily focused on One-on-One Guided meditations. Please note, the course content varies depending on the spiritual requirements of the individuals.  However, the general content of the NINE Classes of the course are as follows:

The general outline of the course modules of the NINE classes are as follows:

Module 1: Introduction to Lord Shiva

• Overview of Lord Shiva's significance in Yoga, Tantra, Vedas, and Puranas
• Shiva-Shakti and the cosmic aspects of Lord Shiva
• Historical, mythological, and spiritual aspects of Lord Shiva

Module 2: Mantras and Meditations on Lord Shiva

• List of different Shiva mantras and their uses and powers including Mahamrityunjaya Mantra, Shiva Panchakshara mantra, and more.
• Shiva Mantra Meditation for Centring, Grace, Expansion, and Blessings
• Guided meditation techniques centred on Lord Shiva
• Centring meditations on the Nadis and Shiva mantras

Module 3: The Sacred Symbols of Lord Shiva

• In-depth examination of Shiva's 12 main symbols
• Their profound spiritual significance and meditations

Module 4: The Mystery and Meditations of Shiva Lingams

• Symbolism and meditative practices related to Shiva Lingams
• Different types of Shiva Lingams. Their purposes, mantras, and meditations.
• How to incorporate Shiva Lingam meditation into your spiritual practice

Module 5: Mantras and Meditations on the Twelve Jyotirlingams

• Exploration of the twelve Jyotirlingams
• Mantras and meditation techniques for connecting with these sacred lights.

Module 6: Shiva, the Lord of Compassion and Love

• A deep dive into Shiva's compassionate and loving aspects
• How to cultivate compassion in your life through meditation

Module 7: Shiva's Other Aspects

• Detailed exploration of the 11 Rudras, 12 Bhairavas, Dakshinamurti, and Sadashiva
• Meditation practices to connect with these diverse aspects of Lord Shiva

Module 8: The Art of Shiva Sankalpa

• Understanding the power of sankalpa (intention) in meditation and life
• Meditation on Shiva Sankalpa Suktam
• How to set meaningful intentions aligned with Shiva's teachings
• Affirmations

Module 9: Shiva's Family and Attendants

• Shiva-Shakti the eternal relationship
• Delve into the divine family of Lord Shiva, including Parvati, Ganesha, Lakshmi, Saraswati, and Kartikeya
• Meditations
• Explore the symbolism and significance of Shiva's attendants like: Nandi, Chandrama (Moon), Vasuki Naga.

Module 10: Essence of Shiva Sutras and Kashmir Shaivism

• An introduction to Kashmir Shaivism and its central text, the Shiva Sutras
• Meditation techniques based on the Shiva Sutras and their teachings

Module 11: Shiva Loka and the Cosmic Dimensions

• Explore Shiva's abode, Shiva Loka, and its connection to the cosmic dimensions
• Meditation practices for experiencing the divine realms

Module 12: Main Stotras of Lord Shiva

• Study and recitation of key Stotras dedicated to Lord Shiva, such as the Shiva Tandava Stotra, Nataraja Stotra, Lingashtakam, Ardhanarishwara Stotram and more

Module 13: Meditations on Sri Rudram: Introduction

• Overview of the significance of Sri Rudram in Lord Shiva's worship
• The power and purpose of chanting the Rudram

 Module 14: Sri Rudram Chanting and Meditation

• Learn the fundamentals to chant the Sri Rudram verses
• Guided meditations using the vibrations and meanings of the mantras

Module 15: Sri Rudram - A Path to Inner Transformation

• Understanding the transformative power of Sri Rudram
• How the hymn can lead to inner purification and spiritual growth

Module 16: Personalizing Your Sri Rudram Meditation

• Tailoring Sri Rudram meditation to your individual spiritual journey
• Developing a deep personal connection with the sacred text

Module 17: Advanced Meditation Techniques

• Advanced meditation methods for deepening your connection with Lord Shiva
• Techniques for experiencing divine transcendence

Module 18: Integration, Course Conclusion and Blessings

• Review of the entire course, including Sri Rudram modules
• Summary of the mantras, and the meditation practices from the entire course, emphasizing Sri Rudram

• Summing up the course journey
• Receiving blessings for your spiritual path and devotion to Lord Shiva

This course provides a comprehensive understanding Lord Shiva, his various aspects, the meditative practices associated with his divine presence, and the profound power of Lord Shiva in meditations.

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How it Works

After you register and submit your payment for an online session, you are notified by email and offered a a set of choices for the dates and times for the online session. You choose one, and confirm by email. You can always email us, if you have a special preference.

Then the session follows - a session designed for you to learn the Lord Shiva meditation tailored to your taste temperament and need. You receive the energy of the Master on a one on one session and learn through an interactive experience.

Sri Amit Ray has many years of deep meditation experience in Himalaya and will explain the fundamentals and deeper aspects of Lord Shiva meditation in its non-dual purest form and will guide you through the practice to a state of deep spirituality, focus, calmness and total wellbeing.

The online meditation classes are provided by Sri Amit Ray, as one-to-one online  Google Meet /Skype / WhatsApp sessions at mutually convenient date and time. Depending on the course the number of session varies. The duration of each session is about an hour. The course includes guided meditations, discussions, and study material.

Upon completion of the online registration and payment process, you will be informed by email, about the date and time of your meditation classes, which are mutually adjustable.

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How to celebrate Mahashivratri in a grand way? Here, we share the science, significance, and the mystical dimensions of Lord Shiva and the Maha Shivaratri. 

Maha Shivaratri is the day of Spiritual Revolution of our inner world. It is the day of not remembering the past but remembering the Ever Present - the ultimate Self. It is the day to nourish our life from all dimensions. It is the day of balancing - balancing the 114 chakras and 72000 nadis in the body and the every aspects of the Universe.

It is the day Salvation of all Souls and the day of Establishing Divine Life on the Earth. In brief, Lord Shiva is the God and the embodiment of completeness and Maha Shivaratri is the celebration for that completeness with the Universe. 

Maha Shivaratri and Lord Shiva

The festival celebrates the grand marriage of the lord of compassion and auspiciousness - Shiva, with the goddess of love, beauty, nourishment and power - Parvati. The Maha Shivaratri also refers to the night when Shiva performs the heavenly cosmic dance. 

The celebration of Maha Shivratri, literally means celebration of the greatest night of Shiva. It is one of the most splendidly celebrated festivals across the country. It is the festival of joy, celebration, fasting, meditation, prayer and worship. Maha Shivaratri is observed on Chaturdashi Tithi during Krishna Paksha in the month of Magha.  Spiritually, it is the day when two greatest forces of the universe united.

On this occasion, devotees across the country are seen flocking to temples, that often witness long queues from as early as the break of the dawn and chants of 'Om Namah Shivaya' and 'Har Har Mahadev' reverberate. Special prayers are offered in all Shiva temples throughout India on this holy night. This is also the period for deep meditation on Lord Shiva, for inner awakening and inner peace. 

Maha Shivaratri, Shiva Puja and the Shivling Abhishek

Shiva Abhishek is a way of offering respect to Shiva. It is the process of bathing Lord Shiva. Following the traditional rituals, devotees observe fasts and are also seen worshipping the 'Shivling,' an iconic representation of Shiva. It is believed that just with this process all the defects of ancestors and all  are abolished. Panchamrita Abhishek is the best way for pleasing Lord Shiva. Panchamrita is the mixture of five nourishing aspects of life.

After taking a bath, one should offer water, cow milk, curd and honey, vibhuthi or sacred ash and sandalwood paste to Lord. One should offer bilwa leaves and flowers like Datura to Lord Shiva. 

When you pour water on the Shivling or the lingam, it calms your mind and frees you from all the negative energies. While performing Shiva Abhisehke, you should chant Shiva Gayatri mantra and other Five Shiva mantras as that brings peace to your mind.

On the occasion of Maha Shivratri, devotees offer 'Rudra-Abhishek' or special ordination to the Shivling where they bathe the 'Shivling' with different substances and each of them has a specific significance.

Devotees use water, curd, sugarcane syrup, milk, honey and other things for 'Rudra-Abhishek. Other important offerings that are mandatorily used for the 'Abhishek' are Bel leaves, Datura flower and fruit.

More: To know the details of the Shiva Abhishek, Shiva Puja and Shivaratri Fasting rules

The Story of the Hunter

The most popular story is of a hunter. It is believed that on this day a hunter killed some birds and then he was chased by a Lion. The hunter climbed a  Bel tree to save his life. There after Lion waited under the tree for the whole night. To stay awake, he plucked out the leaves and dropped them down. There was a Shiva lingam below the tree. All the leaves fell onto that Lingam.

Lord Shiva was pleased by the offering of Bel leaves and saved the hunter in spite of all the sins he had committed by killing birds and animals. The story lays stress on the worshipping of Lord Shiva on this day with Bel leaves.

Lord Shiva Consciousness and the Birth of the Universe 

1. Shiva and Parvati - The Expanding Universe

The world is an eternal phenomenon, going through phases of creation and destruction. So, beginning refers to the beginning of a phase, not beginning of the world itself. In Hinduism, the world is a combination of some curved lines, which are eternal and often repetitive. This union and the dance of  mind, matter and consciousness, is a recurring theme in Puranic tradition, especially in Tantra. The cosmic dance of Shiva resembles the mastery of Lord Shiva over mind, matter and consciousness. 

Scientifically, to understand the birth of the universe, we rely heavily on Einstein’s theory of special relativity,  Hubble's hypothesis and the quantum theory. Hubble's hypothesis of an expanding universe leads to certain deductions. Nataraja, represents Shiva as the lord of dance, encompassing all creation, destruction and all things in between and beyond. .

One is that the universe was more condensed at a previous time. From this deduction came the suggestion that all the currently observed matter and energy in the universe were initially condensed in a very small and infinitely hot mass. A huge explosion, known as the Big Bang, then sent matter and energy expanding in all directions.

2. Shiva and Maha Kali - the Dark Energy 

According to the modern science, the universe contains: 5% of visible matter, stars and the galaxies, another 1/4 dark matter and the remainder is something we don't know, but which we call dark energy. We also know that it is expanding.  Kali is the Goddess of time, change, and destruction. She is the energy current inside that is wild, empowered and all loving. Dark energy is the name given to the mysterious force that's causing the rate of expansion of our universe to accelerate over time. This energy is deeply involved in the life/death / life cycle to keep growing and transforming. Kali does everything in the presence of Lord Shiva. 

3. Shiva - The Ultimate Consciousness

The reality we experience in the macro-world of matter and forms comes from our consciousness. The from the micro-world is full with massless and formless quanta like photons. They can be explained by using top down causation implying supremacy of consciousness over matter. The matter is the manifestation of consciousness. Manifestation implies almost instantaneous perception through sense organs, usually eyes, mediated by brain, recognized and perceived by the nonlocal mind. Manifestation of space, and matter of forms is the act of almost an instant appearance of image and almost an instant materialization demonstrating the power of our consciousness. Shiva is the all-pervading cosmic consciousness. 

4. Shiva Beyond Mind and Beyond Explanation 

The legend of Shiva Linga is also deeply related to Maha Shivratri. According to the story, Brahma and Vishnu searched hard to discover the Aadi (beginning) and the Antha (end) of Lord Shiva. It has been believed that on the 14th day in the dark fortnight of the month of Phalguna, Shiva first manifested himself in the form of a Linga. Since then, the day is considered to be extremely auspicious and is celebrated as Maha Shivratri – the grand night of Shiva. To celebrate this occasion, devotees of Lord Shiva keeps fast during the day and worship the Lord throughout the night. It is said that worshipping Lord Shiva on Shivratri bestows one with happiness and prosperity.

Shiva the story of Samudra Manthan

The Samudra Manthana is one of the best-known symbolic episodes of Lord Shiva. As the churning began and the massive waves whirled, an extremely poisonous drink called halahal came out. The gods became scared because this blue drink could destroy creation. They all got together and prayed to the powerful Shiva to help him them. 

Lord Shiva drank the poison to save the world. But, he did not swallow it. He kept the poison in his throat. Since then, Shiva's throat became blue. Here, the word Samudra means Ocean, the unconscious mind and the word manthan means churning - deep meditation. 

Putting It All Together:

The easiest way to worship Lord Shiva is to meditate on Lord Shiva with love and devotion.  You can do Panchamrita Abhishek with proper devotion and love. You must remember that fasting and worshiping the shiva linga with water and Bel leaves is must, to get the blessings of Lord Shiva on this special day of Maha Shivaratri.

May Lord Shiva, Bless you all!

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