“J yotirlingas are considered the most sacred shrines of Lord Shiva. These are believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva in his lingam form, which symbolizes his infinite nature. Out of the 64 Jyotirlingas, 12 are considered particularly auspicious, and they are associated with a ruling deity, believed to be one of Shiva's many manifestations.These holy sites are known as the twelve Jyotirlingas, and they hold great significance in Hinduism. Each Jyotirlinga has a lingam as its main deity, and it is believed that the lingam is self-manifested, that is, it has emerged naturally. The lingam represents the unending Stambha pillar, which denotes Lord Shiva's infinite and limitless nature. The twelve Jyotirlingas are located across India, and each of them has a unique history, significance, and legend associated with it.

The light of lord shiva

According to Hindu mythology, Brahma, the creator, and Vishnu, the preserver, had a dispute over who was the more important of the two. To resolve the argument, Lord Shiva manifested as a massive, endless pillar of light, known as the Jyotirlinga, to pierce through the three worlds. Brahma and Vishnu decided to find the end of the light in either direction. Vishnu soon realized the futility of his quest and surrendered, but Brahma resorted to deception and claimed to have found the end of the Jyotirlinga. Lord Shiva was displeased by Brahma's deceit and cursed him, saying that he would never be worshipped. The Jyotirlinga, therefore, represents the ultimate reality of Lord Shiva, who manifested in the form of Lingodbhava.

Jyotirlinga temples hold great reverence among devotees of Lord Shiva, as they represent the divine manifestation of the Almighty in the form of light. The word "Jyoti" and "linga" signify light and symbol, respectively. According to the ancient Hindu scripture Siva Mahapuranam, a dispute arose between the deities Brahma, the God of creation, and Vishnu, the God of preservation, over their supremacy in the creation of the universe. Lord Shiva intervened by appearing as a massive, limitless pillar of light known as the Jyotirlinga. This light later cooled and took the form of the sacred mountain Annamalai, bringing an end to the dispute.

Vishnu and Brahma tried to find the end of the light in opposite directions, but only Vishnu acknowledged his defeat. Brahma lied about finding the solution, which enraged Shiva, leading to a curse that no one would adore him, despite being the creator of the universe. The Jyotirlinga represents the Supreme Shiva, a partless reality from which Shiva manifested in the form of Lingodbhava. Shiva appeared in the Jyotirlinga shrines as a blazing column of light, signifying his infinite and limitless nature.

Sri Somnath Temple in Gujarat

Sri Somnath Temple in Gujarat, India, is a place of great significance for Hindus as it is believed to be the first among the 12 Jyotirlingas. The temple has a rich history that dates back to ancient times, and it has been looted and destroyed by Muslim invaders several times throughout history. The most notable invader was Mahmud of Ghazni, who is said to have destroyed the temple 17 times.

Despite the destruction, the temple has always been rebuilt, and today it stands as a symbol of India's cultural and religious heritage. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the lingam is said to be one of the most sacred in the country. The temple complex is located on the shores of the Arabian Sea, providing a picturesque backdrop for the devotees who come to worship here.

In addition to its religious importance, Sri Somnath Temple is also known for its healing powers. It is believed that praying at the temple can cure various ailments and diseases. The temple attracts millions of visitors every year, making it one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in India.

The temple has undergone several renovations and restorations over the years, and today it stands as a magnificent example of Hindu architecture. The intricate carvings, sculptures, and paintings that adorn the temple walls are a testament to the artistic and cultural achievements of ancient India.

Sri Somnath Temple is a significant and revered temple in India that is steeped in history, tradition, and mythology. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Indian culture and spirituality, and it continues to inspire and awe visitors with its grandeur and sanctity.

The Sri Mallikarjunar Temple

The Sri Mallikarjunar Temple, located in Andhra Pradesh, is one of the twelve Jyotirlingam temples of Lord Shiva. The temple sits atop a mountain and is situated on the banks of the Krishna River. This ancient temple is renowned for its exquisite sculptures and stunning architecture, which have withstood the test of time.

Legend has it that the Mallikarjuna Temple is also a Shakti Peedam, and it is believed to be the place where Adi Shankara wrote his famous work, Sivananda Lahiri. This temple is mentioned as one of the Padal Petra Sthalams of Vada Naadu in Thevaaram, a Tamil scripture.

Devotees believe that worshiping at this holy temple blesses them with wealth and prosperity, and it is considered auspicious to offer prayers here for the fulfillment of one's desires. The serene atmosphere and picturesque surroundings add to the temple's allure, making it a must-visit destination for all spiritual seekers.

The Mahakaleshwar Temple

The Mahakaleshwar Temple in Madhya Pradesh is one of the most significant Jyotirlingam temples in India. According to legend, the Jyotirlingam in this temple is a Swayambhu, meaning it emerged by itself. The temple's Sanctum Sanctorum features an inverted Shree Yantra on its ceiling, and the lingam faces south, which symbolizes that Lord Shiva is the master of death.

Located on the banks of the holy river Shipra, the temple is also considered a Shakti Peetam, making it a vital destination for devotees. The Mahakaleshwar Temple is a unique multi-tiered structure, offering a distinctive and unforgettable experience to visitors.

The lingam at this temple is believed to derive its power (Shakti) from within itself, unlike other images and lingams that require ritual establishment and mantra-shakti. Devotees flock to this temple to pray for the courage to overcome their fear of death. The Mahakaleshwar Temple is a remarkable testament to the faith and devotion of Lord Shiva's followers, and it stands as a testament to the enduring power of religion and spirituality in India.

The Sri Omkareshwar Temple

The Sri Omkareshwar Temple is an ancient Jyotirlinga temple located on an island in the Narmada River. The temple is famous for its Swayambhu lingam, which is believed to have self-manifested. The lingam is considered to be one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and is known as Omkareshwar.

The island on which the temple is situated is of great spiritual significance and is shaped like the sacred Hindu symbol "OM". It is believed that Lord Shiva resides here along with Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu. The island is also known as Tripuri Kshetra, which means the land of three cities, namely, Brahmapuri, Vishnupuri, and Rudrapuri.

The Amareshwar Jyotirlingam is located in Rudrapuri, which is also known as Sri Mamaleshwar temple. The devotees who visit the temple believe that by performing the Parikrama or circumambulation of the Omkara, they will be blessed and relieved of all their difficulties in life.

The temple's serene and peaceful surroundings make it an ideal place for meditation and spiritual rejuvenation. Devotees from all over the world come to the temple to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and experience the divine energy that permeates the atmosphere.

Sri Kedarnath Temple

Sri Kedarnath Temple is one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimage sites, located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. It is situated at an elevation of 3,583 meters above sea level, making it the highest among the 12 Jyothirlingas. The temple is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, and it is believed that Lord Shiva resides in the mountains surrounding Kedarnath.

The temple has a rich history and is steeped in legend and tradition. According to mythology, the temple was built by the Pandavas, who sought Lord Shiva's blessings to atone for the sin of killing their relatives in the Kurukshetra war. The triangular-shaped lingam at the temple is believed to be self-manifested and was not established by anyone.

Kedarnath is accessible only for six months of the year, from May to October, due to the extreme weather conditions in the region. The trek to the temple is a challenging one, as it involves a steep climb of over 14 kilometers from Gaurikund. However, the breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the spiritual significance of the temple make the journey worthwhile.

Kedarnath is also listed as one of the Paadal Petra Sthalams of Vada Naadu in the Devaram, an ancient Tamil scripture. It is believed that visiting this temple can help devotees overcome their sins and attain salvation.

In recent years, the temple has undergone significant renovation and restoration work after it was severely damaged by floods in 2013. The temple's sanctum sanctorum, which houses the Jyothirlingam, has been rebuilt, and the temple complex has been modernized while maintaining its traditional architecture and design.

Sri Bhimashankar Temple

Sri Bhimashankar Temple is a revered place of worship located near Pune, Maharashtra. It is believed to be the source of the Bhima River, which merges with the Krishna River. Despite being identified as a temple in multiple locations such as Kashipur in Uttarakhand, Sahyadri, Guwahati in Assam, and Bhimpur in South Orissa, the locals consider the temple near Pune as the true Bhimashankar.

The temple is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, with endless stretches of virgin forests and lofty peaks that seem to touch the heavens. The whispering waters of the Bhima River add to the serene atmosphere, making Bhimashankar a pilgrim's paradise.

According to legend, Lord Shiva took the form of Bhima to defeat the demon Tripurasura. The sweat that poured down from his body formed the Bhima River, and the place where he rested after the battle is said to be the location of the Bhimashankar Temple.

The temple architecture is awe-inspiring, with intricate carvings and sculptures. The idol of Lord Shiva in the sanctum sanctorum is believed to be Swayambhu, or self-manifested. The temple also has a jyotirlingam, which is one of the twelve in the country.

The temple is surrounded by wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. With Lord Shiva seemingly keeping a silent vigil over the majestic ranges of the Sahyadris, Bhimashankar is truly a divine experience.

Sri Kashi Vishwanathar Temple

Sri Kashi Vishwanathar Temple, also known as the Golden Temple, is a revered Hindu shrine located in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the Jyothirlingam is housed in the sanctum sanctorum. The temple is believed to be one of the oldest temples in India, with historical records dating back more than 3500 years.

The temple complex is vast, with multiple shrines and sub-shrines dedicated to different deities. The main shrine of Lord Vishwanath is covered with a gold-plated dome and spire. The temple is situated on the western bank of the Ganges, which is considered a holy river by Hindus. The temple is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus, and it is believed that a visit to this shrine will grant them moksha or liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

The temple town of Varanasi is considered the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world and is regarded as a center of learning, religion, and culture. The city is also known for its ghats, which are a series of steps leading down to the river. The ghats are used for various religious activities, including bathing in the river, performing rituals, and cremating the dead.

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple has been destroyed and rebuilt several times throughout history. The current structure was built in the 18th century by Queen Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore. The temple complex underwent significant renovations in the 20th century, including the addition of a large hall for devotees. The temple is considered one of the most significant Hindu shrines and attracts millions of visitors every year.

Triambakeshwarar Temple

Located in the Trimbakeshwar tehsil in the Nashik District of Maharashtra, the Triambakeshwarar Temple is a revered Jyothirlingam shrine. Legend has it that approaching Lord Shiva with complete faith and devotion can help devotees atone for their misdeeds. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the twelve Jyothirlingas where the Hindu genealogy registers are kept.

The sacred Godavari river, whose origin is near Trimbak, flows by the temple's banks. The Shiva Lingam of Triambakeshwarar Temple is unique, consisting of three lingas that depict Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh, and are covered by silver and, on special occasions, a golden crown with precious gems and diamonds. Located 28 km from the city of Nashik and 40 km from Nashik road, the temple is believed to be ancient and steeped in history. The holy town of Trimbak is also home to several other ancient temples and pilgrimage sites.

The Nageshvarar Temple

The Nageshvarar Temple in Gujarat is one of the most prominent Lord Shiva temples in India. The term "Nageshwar" implies the Lord of Serpents, which represents the power of Lord Shiva over evil forces. As per the Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva is also depicted with a snake (Vasuki) around his neck. The Lingam at Nageshvarar Temple is an oval Rudraksha with three faces, and it is believed that Rudraksha is the tears of Lord Shiva.

The temple is considered to be the first of the 12 Jyotirlingam shrines described in the Shiva Puranam. The temple is also renowned for its association with Adi Guru Shankaracharya, who established the Western Kalika Peeth. Worshipping at this temple is believed to help people attain good fortune and a poison-free mind and body.

The Nageshwar Temple is believed to have the power to cure diseases related to toxins and poisons. People from all over India visit this temple to seek blessings from Lord Shiva and have their wishes fulfilled. The serene and peaceful environment around the temple is an added attraction for pilgrims. The temple is a must-visit for anyone seeking spiritual enlightenment and a divine experience.

Baidyanath Jyothirlinga

Baidyanath Jyothirlinga is located in Deoghar, Jharkhand, and is one of the most revered shrines in the Hindu religion. The temple complex includes 21 temples and is considered a must-visit for those on the path of spiritual enlightenment. The lingam in the main temple is believed to have healing powers, and many devotees come here seeking relief from ailments.

Legend has it that Ravana, the demon king of Lanka, was a devout worshipper of Lord Shiva and offered his ten heads to the deity as a sacrifice. Lord Shiva, pleased with Ravana's devotion, appeared before him and granted him immense power. However, Ravana's ego and misuse of power eventually led to his downfall.

The temple is believed to be the spot where Ravana worshipped Lord Shiva and was granted his boon. It is said that the lingam at the Baidyanath Temple is a manifestation of Lord Shiva's healing powers, hence the name 'Baidyanath,' which means the lord of physicians.

The temple attracts a large number of devotees during the annual Shravani Mela, a month-long festival where pilgrims walk barefoot for miles to offer water to the lingam. The festival is an important event in the Hindu calendar and is celebrated with much pomp and fervor.

The Rameshwaram Temple

The Rameshwaram Temple in Tamil Nadu is considered to be the most significant of the twelve Jyotirlingam shrines in India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is highly revered by Hindus across the country. The temple complex is home to the Ramalingeswarar Jyotirlingam, which is the largest of all the Jyotirlingams. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Rama worshipped Lord Shiva at this temple after his return from Lanka. The primary deity of the temple is Ramanathaswamy in the form of a lingam.

The temple is also famous for its two lingams inside the sanctum - Ramalingam, which was built by Lord Rama himself, and Vishwalingam, which was brought by Lord Hanuman from Kailash. It is believed that Lord Hanuman's lingam should be worshipped first before worshipping Ramalingam, and this tradition continues even today.

The Rameshwaram Temple has a high compound wall (madil) on all four sides, measuring about 865 feet from east to west and 657 feet from north to south, with huge towers (Gopurams) to the east and west and finished gate towers to the north and south. The temple also boasts of striking long corridors in its interior, running between huge colonnades on platforms above five feet high.

It is believed that Lord Shiva grants the wishes of his devotees who visit the temple with complete faith and devotion. The temple is considered to be one of the four holiest sites that a Hindu must visit once in their lifetime. The Rameshwaram Temple is a beautiful amalgamation of architectural brilliance and spiritual significance, attracting tourists and devotees from all over the world.

Grishneshwar Jyothirlingam

Grishneshwar Jyothirlingam, also known as Ghushmeshwar Jyothirlingam, is one of the twelve Jyothirlingam shrines mentioned in the Shiva Puranam "Kotirudra Sahinta." It is believed to be either the final or the twelfth Jyothirlingam on earth. The temple is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus and receives long lines of devotees every day. While anyone can enter the temple premises and its inner chambers, men are required to go bare-chested to enter the sanctum sanctorum core (garbha-gruha) of the temple, as per local Hindu tradition.

One unique belief associated with the Grishneshwar Temple is that praying here helps in reuniting separated family members. Interestingly, the temple is located right next to the world-famous Ellora Caves, which attracts tourists from all over the world. The temple has a rich history and is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings, making it a must-visit destination for devotees and tourists alike.

This Sanskrit shloka from the Shiva Purana refers to the twelve Maha Jyotirlingas or the twelve most significant shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva in India. The shloka mentions the names of these twelve Jyotirlingas, which include Somnath in Saurashtra, Mallikarjuna in Srisailam, Mahakaleshwar in Ujjain, Omkareshwar in Omkareshwar, Vaidyanath in Parali, Bhimashankar in Dakini, Rameshwaram in Setubandha, Nageshwar in Darukavana, Vishwanath in Varanasi, Triambakeshwar in Gautami, Kedarnath in the Himalayas, and Grishneshwar in Shivalaya.

The shloka highlights the significance of these Jyotirlingas and their ability to purify the devotee of all sins from previous life. It encourages reciting the Jyotirlinga Slokam daily to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.

Visiting and seeking the blessings of the Jyotirlingas is considered highly auspicious in Hinduism, and it is believed that doing so can help one attain liberation from the cycle of birth and death. Devotees from all over India and abroad visit these shrines to offer prayers and seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.

The Jyotirlinga Slokam is a powerful prayer that highlights the significance of the twelve Jyotirlingas and their ability to purify the devotee of all sins. Reciting this shloka daily and visiting these shrines is considered highly auspicious in Hinduism, and it is believed to bring blessings and spiritual liberation to the devotee.