Jyotirlingas are worshiped as sacred manifestations of Lord Shiva that symbolises his divine radiance and infinite power. These shrines are an essential part of Hindu mythology and devotion, representing the supreme presence of Shiva in the form of a linga, or phallic symbol.
According to the Shiva Purana, there are total 64 Jyotirlingas out of which 12 considered to be very auspicious and called as Mahajyotirling. Each one represents a particular manifestation of Lord Shiva and is regarded as spiritually significant, attracting thousands of pilgrims from all over the country.
The Story Behind Jyotirlingas:
A Jyotirlinga or Jyotirlingam is a radiant symbol of Lord Shiva that was formed to exemplify the essence of light. According to Hindu Mythology, the story behind the Jyotirlinga goes back to the controversy surrounding the supremacy of Brahma and Vishnu. To resolve the conflict, Lord Shiva appeared in the form of a bright pillar of light, known as Jyotirlinga, which neither Brahma nor Vishnu could fathom.
Hence, it was symbolic of the great power of Lord Shiva. The pillar cooled down later to become a holy site at Annamalai. Brahma's trickery, wherein he fooled Vishnu about finding the top of the Jyotirlinga, invited Shiva to curse him against being worshipped, even though he is the creator of the Earth.
Here is the list of 12 Jyotirlingas in India:
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Somnath Jyotirlinga, Gujarat:
Located beside the Arabian Sea, Somnath Temple is one of the most prominent Jyotirlingas, renowned for its religious significance and architectural marvel. This temple has a rich history of destruction and reconstruction, symbolising undying faith.
Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga, Andhra Pradesh:
Situated in the beautiful Nallamala hills, this temple is a spiritual and architectural masterpiece. It is nestled beside the temple of Bhramaramba, offering a serene pilgrimage destination.
Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, Madhya Pradesh:
Located on the banks of the Rudrasagar River in Ujjain, this temple is known for its famous Bhasma Aarti and rich spiritual history, making it a popular destination for devotees.
Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga, Madhya Pradesh:
Set on the serene Omkareshwar island, this Jyotirlinga offers a perfect blend of spirituality and scenic beauty with its 'Om'-shaped architecture.
Baidyanath Jyotirlinga, Jharkhand:
Located in Deoghar, this Jyotirlinga is famous for its intricately carved temple and the Shravani Mela, where devotees journey to pour water over Lord Shiva’s head.
Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga, Maharashtra:
Nestled in the lush Western Ghats, this Jyotirlinga combines nature’s beauty with spirituality and features unique Nagara-style architecture.
Rameshwar Jyotirlinga, Tamil Nadu:
This Jyotirlinga, located on Rameswaram island, is part of the Char Dham pilgrimage and is known for its long temple corridor and mythological connections to the Ramayana.
Nageshwar Jyotirlinga, Gujarat:
Situated in Dwarka, this Jyotirlinga features a giant statue of Lord Shiva and is associated with the legend of Lord Shiva’s victory over the demon Daruka.
Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga, Varanasi:
Located in the spiritual capital of India, Varanasi, this revered temple stands beside the Ganges River, symbolising the convergence of life and death.
Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga, Maharashtra:
Situated near the Godavari River, this temple is unique for having a Linga representing Lord Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, drawing pilgrims with its natural beauty and divine energy.
Kedarnath Jyotirlinga, Uttarakhand:
Located amidst the snow-covered peaks of the Himalayas, Kedarnath is a spiritual and scenic pilgrimage destination, believed to have been established by the Pandavas.
Grishneswar Jyotirlinga, Maharashtra:
This ancient temple near the Ellora Caves is known for its intricate carvings and medieval architecture, attracting tourists and pilgrims alike.