Mahashivaratri on Tuesday - rare combination

In Indian culture every lunar day carries some importance. For example fourteenth day of Krishna paksha of every lunar month is called shivaratri.  In one lunar year there are 12 shivaratri. Out of all these 12 shivaratris, one that occurs in the month of Maagh is considered very special and is called Mahashivaratri – the great night of Lord Shiva.

Additionally, as per Shripad Shrivallabh Charitamrut, Mahashivaratri that falls on Tuesday is considered as very auspicious.

Lord Shiva is considered as a god who destroys. What does he destroy? He destroys the effects of great sins of his devotees, the effects that otherwise can become the cause of suffering.

In general one should worship Lord Shiva on every day. However if it is not possible, at least on Mahashivaratri it is recommended that one should worship Lord Shiva by chanting his holy name while keeping vigil throughout the night. By doing this it is believed that one can not only get rid of great sins but also sow the seeds for new auspicious vibrations that can give perpetual joy and peace of mind.

Those who wish and have knowledge of Vedas, should perform abhisheka of Lord Shiva by offering milk and other auspicious elements to Shiva’s Linga while chanting Rudra Namakam and Rudra Chamakam.  This abhisheka is called rudraabhisheka. Even by just witnessing such abhisheka one can gain same benefits as the performer of abhisheka.

Here are few useful links for performing worship of Lord Shiva.

• Shiva puja on Mahashivaratri
• Manas puja of Lord Shiva by Shri Adi Shankaracharya