The great Lord Shiva Shankar is one of the most revered deities in Hinduism. As the "Destroyer" within the Holy Trinity (Trimurti), he plays a key role in bringing about transformation and renewal in the universe. Despite his power to destroy, Shiva is known for his deep compassion and mercy towards his devotees. This is why many people prefer to keep a Shivling at home, so that they can worship and find solace under the divine protection of the Supreme Being.
However, keeping the holy representation at home is considered auspicious only when certain guidelines are followed. Not following these rules can lead to negative consequences. In the blog we will discuss the things you should not do if you have a Shivling in your home.
Things you should never do if you keep a Shiva Lingam at home
1. Not maintaining a continuous water flow for Shiva Linga
If you are offering water once in a while to the Shiva Linga, you are doing it wrong. Not only is it customary to perform a full Shiva Puja with all the rituals for the symbol of Shiva, but you should also maintain a constant flow of water known as Jaldhara. This constant water stream helps to harmonize and balance the powerful energy surrounding the Shiva Linga, which is essential to maintain a constant flow of positive energy in your home without negative consequences.
2. Keeping more than one Shiva Linga at home
The Shiva Linga is a sacred symbol representing Lord Shiva. When an idol or symbol of a deity, such as a Shiva Linga, is placed at home and worshipped daily with mantras and offerings (prasad), it is believed to embody the divine energy of the deity. However, it is important to note that keeping more than one idol or symbol of the same deity can disrupt the flow of energy in your prayers and spiritual practice. Therefore, it is traditionally advised to keep only one Shiva Linga at home, as it contains immense spiritual power.
3. Keeping Shiva Linga alone
When setting up a Shiva Linga, place it alongside idols of Gauri and Ganesh. The Shiva Linga should not be positioned alone; these deities support and complement the worship.
4. Installing and Worshiping Shiva Linga in the wrong Vastu
There are two recommended directions for placing a Shiva Linga
I. The Shiv Linga should be placed in such a way that the devotee faces east while performing the puja, and the Shiv Linga faces west. The water reservoir of the Shiv Linga should be placed facing north.
II. Alternatively, the water reservoir can be placed facing east, and the devotee faces north while performing the puja.
Also Read: Role and Importance of Vastu Direction
5. Using Coconut Water for Puja
The Shiv Linga can be bathed with a mixture of milk, water and Gangajal. Coconut water should not be offered to the Shiv Linga under any circumstances. Instead, raw coconuts can be offered as a mark of respect and traditional gesture during the puja.
6. Infrequent prayers and offerings
It is Important to worship the Shivling kept at home twice daily- once in the morning and once in the evening. If it is not possible to perform puja at both the times, then it is advisable not to bring the deity home. Every morning after bathing, sandalwood tilak should be applied on the Shiv Linga.
7. Using Sindoor and Turmeric Tilak
Avoid offering sindoor or turmeric to the Shiva Linga. Sindoor is used in rituals for the longevity of the husband and turmeric is used to enhance the beauty of women. Since Shiva is associated with transformation and destruction, it is not appropriate for this deity.
8. Inappropriate material for formation
The most auspicious Shiva Linga to keep at home is made of the stone found in the Narmada River. However, if you can't get your hands on it or prefer a metal one, choose any from gold, silver, or copper. Apart from ensuring it's created from either of these metals; also make sure that it has a metal serpent (naga) around the Shiva Linga as part of the setup.
9. Offering Tulsi Leaves
You should never offer Tulsi leaves to the Shiva Linga, as they are traditionally reserved for Lord Vishnu. Instead, offer Bael (Bilva) leaves, which are considered especially sacred to Lord Shiva. The three-lobed shape of Bael leaves represents Shiva's three eyes and his trident (Trishul), making them ideal for worshipping him. Offering Bael leaves is believed to bring blessings from Lord Shiva, giving the devotee peace, health, and protection.
Also Read: Maa Tulsi Aarti
10. Offering Flowers of your choice
Only white flowers should be used in offerings to the Shiva Linga, as they are believed to please Lord Shiva. On the other hand, flowers such as kewda or Champa are believed to be cursed by him. Hence, make sure you're not offering these to him.
11. Frequent Relocation of Shiva Linga
Once established in a home, the Shiva Linga should not be moved frequently. Keep the space clean and clutter-free and perform daily worship. However, if it's still crucial to change its location, do it only after bathing it with Ganga Jal and pure cow milk. Make sure the place you establish your Shiva Linga is permanent for an extended period.
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