Satyajit Das:
Om Namah Shivaya
"Shiva" - He is both the god of destruction and the abode of peace. He is the holder of time, the eternal power of the universe. According to the Sanatan Shastra, among the three gunas of nature (Sattva, Rajas and Tamas), Shiva is the symbol of the Tamas guna, which opens the way for new creation through destruction and transformation.
Why is Mahashivaratri celebrated?
According to mythology, the grand wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati took place on the fourteenth day of the dark fortnight of the month of Phalguna. This day is not only an auspicious day, but it is also a symbol of self-awakening. On Shivaratri, devotees seek the blessings of Lord Shiva by fasting, staying awake at night, and offering water to the Shivalinga.
The greatness of the Shivlinga:
The Shiva Linga is not just a symbol, it is a vision of the creation of the universe. The word 'Linga' means where everything dissolves, and from where the new is born. The Vedic scriptures say that Brahma creates, Vishnu maintains, and Shiva destroys—but this destruction does not mean the end, but rather a prelude to a new beginning.
The significance of night vigils:
Staying awake at night on Mahashivaratri is not just a religious ritual, it is a time of introspection. Shivaratri is a moment when the lamp of consciousness is lit even amidst all the darkness of the world. It is believed that on this night, meditation and fasting remove all the negative energy from the mind and give a new direction to life.
Shiva's philosophy: Is destruction the end?
Shiva is not only the destroyer, he is also a symbol of rebirth. Mahadev teaches us that every destruction in life does not mean the end, but the beginning of something new. From individuals to society; this cycle is ongoing in all areas. The hardships and adversities that come in our lives may be the end of an old chapter, but they open the door to new possibilities for us.
On this Mahashivaratri, let us not get stuck in the traditional worship but realize the true vision of Shiva. Let us learn from Mahadev to come out of the darkness of delusion, fear, greed, and despair. Because Shiva is the only god who shows a new path through destruction.
