||Om Nama: Shivaya||

Chapter – 36 – Vindhyeshwara Samhitha – 22

Shalagramodhbhave Linge Rasalinge Thatha Dhvija: | Pashane Rajathe  Swarnna Surasiddha Pradhishtithe || Kashmeere Spatike Rathne Jyothirlingeshu  Sarvasha: | Chandrayanasamam Proktham Shambhor Naivedhyabhakthanam ||

Rishis speak “Oh! Sage, previously we have heard that the offerings of Lord Shiva should not be consumed immediately after veneration, and what are the procedures should be followed to accept the Shivanaivedhyam, and kindly describe the Bilwa Mathmyam.”

Sutha Pauranika speaks “Oh! Ascetics, listen to me carefully, you are ardent devotees of Lord Shiva, undertakes various austerities and vows, a passionate devotee who follows austerities, and intense faith and devotion upon the supreme Lord Mahadeva, is qualified to accept the offerings of Lord Shiva. Oh! Munishreshta, mere witnessing the offerings of Lord Shiva would remove impurities of the minds and sins; hence the consumption of it would provide crores of piousness.  It is not necessary to perform crores of Yagnas, mere consumption of the offerings of Lord Shiva provides Shivasayujya.  The Shiva Naivedhyam purifies the home of the worshiper and its effect would purify the nearby homes as well.  Shiva Naivedhyam should be carried on the top of the head, and it should be consumed with the remembrance and utterance of supreme Lord Shiva.  The Shiva Naivedhyam should be consumed immediately after bringing home, it should not be discarded, and otherwise, it would bring sins.  The person who shows disrespect to the Shiva Naivedhyam would get troubled of sins and pushed to hell.  The passionate devotee whose neck is adorned with the image of Lord Shiva made of gold or silver, or any metal is entitled to receive the Shiva Naivedhyam, a person who attained Shivadheeksha is entitled to receive Shiva Naivedhyam, devotees who are attained Dhiksha of various beliefs, but the devotee of Lord Shiva can receive Shiva Naivedhyam, I shall narrate to you.  The consumption of Shiva Naivedhyam offered to Shivalinga created out of Saligrama, Rasalinga, Stonelinga, Silver or Gold linga, and Lingas consecrated by Siddhas or deities, Crystal Linga of Kashmira, Rathnalinga, and all the Jyothirlinga, would provide the piousness of Chandrayana Vratha.  The person who committed the severe sin of Bhramahathya would get rid of the sins with the adoration of Shiva Nirmalya on him/her, consumption of Shiva Naivedhyam would remove all the sins.  The Shiva Naivedhyam offered to Chandadhikari should not be consumed by humans.  Shiva Naivedhyam can be consumed with devotion in the absence of Chandadhikari of Lord Shiva.  Chandadhikari has no rights on the Lingas made of metals,  Bana, and Sidhdhalinga, or Swayambhuva/self-manifested Linga, or images of Lord Shiva.  The consumption of the water used for performing ablutions on the Linga would remove Thrividham Papam/three types of sins.  The Shiva Naivedhyam, flower, fruits, water, etc. should be consumed after a touch on the Salagramashila.  Oh! Munishwara, the Naivedhyam offered on the pinnacle of the Linga should not be consumed; the Naivedhyam offered on the pedestal of the Linga is auspicious to consume.”

Mahadeva Swaroopoayam Bilwe Devairapi Sthutha: | Yatha Kathashchidhethasya Mahima  Jyayathe Katham || Bilwamoole Mahadevam LIngaroopinam Avyayam | Ya: Poojayathi Punyathma  Sa Shivam Prapnuyathdhruvam||

Sutha Pauranika speaks “ Oh! Munisaththama, I have already described the methods of consumption of Shiva Naivedhyam. I shall describe the Bilwamahathmyam to you.  The deities eulogize bale tree that symbolizes Lord Mahadeva, how could I describe its glories in a few words?  All those Punyatheertha on the Earth represents the root of the bale tree.  Whoever worship Lord Mahadeva who is unblemished, in the form of  Linga under the bale tree would attain an abundance of meritorious reward, ultimately achieve the abode of Lord Shiva.  Whoever serves Bilwa tree with water, would remain purified and auspicious, attains the benefits of a dip in all the sacred waters.  The construction of a tiny watercourse at the base of the bale tree would bring the eternal presence of Lord Mahadeva in it.  Whoever worships the Bale tree with fragrances, flowers, fruits, unbroken yellow rice, etc. would attain Shivaloka and the clan of the devotee would prosper with all those auspiciousness with the grace of supreme Lord Mahadeva.  Whoever worships Bale tree and offer Earthen lamp on its root would attain the highest of the spiritual knowledge, ultimately attains the form of Lord Shiva.  Whoever collects the unbroken bale leaves and offer to Lord Shiva would be freed from all the sins.  Whoever serves a Bhramana seated under the bale tree, serving him with a meal, Dhakshina and Vasthram would attain the merit of feeding crores of twice-born.  Whoever serves the devotees of Lord Shiva with rice cooked in the milk would never face the suffering of poverty.  The worship of Shivalinga with sincere devotion and faith would provide delight to the worshiper engaged in worldly matters/ PravriththiMarga, and the worshiper who is already renounced the material well-being would attain serenity of mind and union with the Bhramam/ Nivriththimarga.  The worshiper who is engaged in worldly affairs can conduct the worship of Linga installed on the pedestal by a competent twice-born.  After the performance of  Rudrabhisheka, the rice offered to the Linga should be of high quality, as a part of the conclusion of the worship, the Linga should be kept in a sanctified place in the home.  The Shiva Naivedhyam should be offered to devotees of Lord Shiva, who are noble, renounced souls who worship the subtle form of supreme Lord who resides as the soul in the living beings.  The ablution of Linga with the sacred ashes, adoration of the same should be performed; finally, the worshiper reverentially bows down head before the Linga and prostrate  at the end of veneration.”

||Om Nama: Shivaya||

Chapter – 35 – Vindhyeshwara Samhitha – 21

Agnana Thirmirandhanam Vishayasaktha Chethasam | Plavo Nanyoasthi Jagathi Lingadharadhanamanthara|| Hari Bhramadhayo Deva Munayo Yathra Rakshasa: | Gandharva Charana: Sidhdha Dhaithya Dhanavasthatha || Naga: Sheshaprabhrithayo Gaudadhya: Gagasthatha | Sa Prajapathayashchanye  Manava: Kinnara Nara: || Poojayithva  Mahabhakthya  Lingam Sarvarththisiddhitham | Praptha: Kamanabeeshtamshcha Thasthasthansarvahridhi Sthithan||

Rishis speak “ Oh! Sutha, Oh! Mahabhaga, Oh! Vyasashishya, we shall repeatedly prostrate before you, Oh! Dheenavathsala, kindly narrate how to conduct the worship of Parththiva Shivalinga to fulfill one’s own desires.”

Sutha Pauranika speaks “Oh! Munishreshta, I shall narrate the methods of veneration of Parththivashivalinga for achieving all that desired by the worshiper.  The veneration of Parththivashivalinga without devotion or faith, will not bring any fruitful results, it would be like giving away charities with self-importance.  Oh! Munishreshta, worship of the Parththivashivalinga with the intense devotion and faith would provide propitious results.  Oh! Ascetics, I shall describe the number of  Parththiva Shiva Lingas should construct and the consecration methods as well.  The disciple who yearns to attain supreme wisdom should construct thousands of Parththivashivalinga and conduct the worship with utmost devotion and faith would attain an abundance of wisdom. The person who desirous of wealth should construct five hundred of Parththivashivalinga and conducts worship for immense wealth and prosperity, the person who is desirous of progeny should construct fifteen hundreds of Parththivashivalinga and conducts sincere worship would be benefited with virtuous offspring, the person who desirous of garments should construct five hundred Parththivashivalinga and conducts worship to get an abundance of clothes.  The intellectuals who desirous of ‘Moksha’ the supreme state of Jeevanmuktha/free from life cycle of birth and death/Moksharththi should construct crores of Parththivashivalinga and conducts sincere worship of the supreme Lord.  The person who is desirous of land/Bhookamarththi, should construct thousands of Parththivashivalinga and worship, person who seeks the compassion of supreme Lord/Dhayarththi, constructs three thousands of Parththiva Shivalingas and conducts worship. The person who is desirous of visiting sacred places on the Earth/Theertharththi should construct two thousands of Parththiva Shivalinga and worships supreme Lord.  The person who desirous of appropriate companion/Suhrutharththi should construct three thousands of Parththiva Shivalinga and conducts worship, the person who is desirous of fame/Vashyarththi should construct eight hundreds of Parththiva Shivalinga and conducts worship, the person who desirous of the win over the enemy/Maranarththi should construct seven hundred Parththiva Shivalinga and conducts worship, person who wants to influence another person/Mohanarththi should create eight hundred Parththivashivalinga and conducts worship.  The person, who is desirous to overthrow the power of other person/Ucchadan and Sthambhan/causing impediments to others, or Dhveshanarthi/ who is desirous of causing trouble to others, constructs thousands of Parththivashivalinga and worship.  The person who is desirous of getting relieved from the fear of theft, burglary, and crimes should construct two hundreds of Parththivashivalinga, and the person who wants to get rid of troubles from spirit should construct five hundreds of Parththivashivalinga.  The worship of five thousand and ten thousand Parththivashivalinga removes the sufferings of poverty and fulfills all the desires of the worshiper. Oh! Munisaththama, I shall narrate how to conduct the daily veneration of Parththivashivalinga and the methods of worship.”

Sutha Pauranika continues “ Oh! Sages, there was some difference of opinion prevailed among sages about the number of adoration of Parththivashivalinga, I shall narrate them too,  worship of one Parththiva Shivalinga removes the sins of the worshiper, the veneration of the large number of Parththivalinga provides success, wealth, etc. worship of three Lingas fulfills all the desires of the worshiper.  The intellectuals worship ten thousand of Parththiva Shivalinga to get rid of their fears of imprisonment and to get freed from the imprisonment.  The worship of seven thousand Parththivashivalingas removes the fear of Dakini.  The worship of fifty thousand and ten thousand Parththiva Shivalinga by the childless couple would attain virtuous male and female offspring respectively; the worship of ten thousand and ten lakhs of Parththivashivalinga would bring the affluence equivalent to Lord Vishnu and wealth in abundance.  Whoever worships crores of Parththiva Shivalinga remains the supreme Lord Shiva himself, worship of this Parththivashivalinga, the worshiper would attain all the earthly pleasures, ultimately attain liberation from the repeated cycles of birth and death.  The worship of Parththivashiva Linga on a regular basis would provide appreciation, who keeps himself away from the adoration of Linga faces destruction and ill fame.  The performance of charities, worship of Parththivashivalinga, visiting Theerthas, and the performance of Yajjas all provide an abundance of piousness to the worshiper. The scripture strongly recommends the regular worship of Parththivashiva Linga to get rid of evil effects on the Kali era; it provides worldly pleasures and liberation, removes all the sins of the worshiper, and brings ShivaSayujya.  Oh! Sages, I shall describe the sizes of the Parththivashivalinga, listen to me carefully.  The intellectuals described that the Parththivashivalinga made of four Angulas sizes over the pedestal is auspicious, the size of Linga is half of the above said is considered as a medium, and the lesser than the above is considered as inauspicious.  All the Shastras and Puranas strongly recommend the worship of Parththivashivalinga as one of the superior most deeds, there is none of the deeds is superior to this.  The adoration of Linga with intense devotion and faith would remove the worldly interest and bondage, whoever performs the adoration of Parththivashivalinga on a regular basis would get freed from the unfathomable ocean of worldly existence, the worship of Parththivashivalinga is equivalent to the worship of Sakalacharachara/moveable and immovable things in this Universe.  The worship of Parththivashivaliga on a regular basis would remove all the impurities, the darkness of ignorance, interest in worldly matters, and showers an abundance of piousness.  The supreme Lord Hari, Bhrama, deities, Dhanavas, Nara, Naga, Adishesha,  Sages and Rishis, Garuda, Gaga, Prajapathi, Manu, Kinnaras, and humans have worshiped the Parththiva Shivalinga and attained an abundance of piousness.  The veneration of Shivalinga can be performed with the recitation of Vedic chants, and methods prescribed in Puranas.  The performance can be performed by the three Varnas, even the women have the right to perform the veneration of Linga. Vedic Bhramins should perform the adoration by following Vedic way; the twice-born who are cursed by Rishis, Dhadhichi, and Gautama will have little faith in the adoration of Linga.  The adoration of Linga along with Earth, Water, fire, wind, sky, sun, and moon and the Yajaman/worshiper is performed.  The adoration of Linga along with the Ashtamoorthi of Lord Shiva as Sharva, Bhava,  Rudra, Ugra, Bhima, Ishvara, Mahadeva and  Pashupati,  worship of Lord Shiva along with Goddess Parvathi, Ganesh, and Karthik with the offerings of  sandalwood paste and unbroken yellow rice, etc. worship of Ishanam, Nandhi, Chanda, Mahakala, Bhringi, Vrisha, Skandha, Soma and Shukra should be performed.  The worship of eleven Rudras, Virabhadhra on the forefront, and Kiritumukha on the back should be performed following with the chants of Panchakshara Manthra, Shatharudriya, with the recitation of Shivasthothras, etc.  As a concluding part, circumambulate, and prostrate before the deity.  Oh! Munishreshta, I have detailed the method of veneration, the worshiper should adorn his body with the sacred ashes, Rudraksha, before the veneration of the Linga and worship should be performed with the bale leaves.  If the ashes are not available, the sand can be applied as Thripundra on the forehead and conduct worship.”

||Om Nama: Shivaya||

Chapter – 34 – Vindhyeshwara Samhitha – 20

Sukthoktha Vidhina  Snathva  Sandhyam Krithva Yathavidhi | Bhramayajjam Vidhayadhau Thathastharpanamachareth || Naithikam Sakalam Kamam Vidhyayanantharam Puman | Shivasmaranapoorvam  Hi Bhasma Rukdraksha Dharaka: || Vedokthavidhina Samyak Sampoornna Phalasidhdhaye | Poojayethparaya Bhakthya  Parththivam  Lingamuththamam||

Sutha Pauranika speaks “ Oh! Dhvija, I shall describe the method of veneration of Parththiva Shiva Linga for the people who follow the Vedic way of living.  The worship of Parththiva Shiva Linga sincerely following the Vedic way would provide Bhukthi as well as Mukthi to the worshiper.  The veneration of Parththiva Linga should begin with the performance of bath following the Suthra, performance of Sandhya/worship of the sun, Bhramayajjam offering water to deities,  Rishis and manes, the performance of daily rites and learning scriptures, contemplation upon supreme Lord Shiva, adore Bhasma/sacred ash and Rudraksha.  The worship of Shivalinga with the prescribed rites in Veda would provide successful results if it was carried out with intense devotion and faith.  The worship of Parththiva Shivalinga can be performed on the shores of ocean or river, or pond, or mountain or hills, or woods, or Shiva’s shrine, or any of the sanctified places. Oh! Dhvija, the Parththiva Shivalinga should be constructed with the sanctified sand, collected from a clean place and prescribed rites should be followed to worship. The Dhvijathis collects white-colored sand, a Kshatriya should collect red-colored sand, a Vaishya should collect yellow-colored sand, and a Shudra should collect black-colored sand, and the Linga made out of these sands by the people of respective Varnna, should install them in a sanctified place to conduct worship.  The worship of the Parththiva Shivalinga would provide all the earthly pleasures as well as liberation from repeated births. Oh! Dhivja, listen to me carefully, the creation of Linga out of the sand should begin with sprinkling water on the sand with the utterance of ‘Om Nama: Shivaya’ followed with the recital of Manthra to construct the Linga, purification process and installation, recitation of Manthra followed with gestures on the prescribed rule, application of various ingredients like milk, curd, ghee, sugar, and honey, further offering of upper clothe and various ornaments to the deity followed by sacred hymns, the offering of fragrances, Akshatha, flowers and bale leaves, incense, and earthen lamp, Naivedhya, water, fruits and various ingredients/Padhartha, unbroken yellow rice, finally the Dhakshina to the priests are offered abundantly.  Oh! Dhvija, all those above-said offerings should be made followed with specific chants praising the supreme Lord Maheshwara.  As a concluding part, offering Dheepa and Dhoop, circumambulation, and prostration before the deity, should be performed with the recitation of hymns and gestures/Panchamudra. Oh! Dhvija, I have explained the Vedic way of conducting the worship of Parththiva Shivalinga.  The sand should be collected with the recitation of the Manthra ‘Sadhyojatham’, and the water should be poured reciting the Manthra ‘Vamadevaya’, the Linga prepared by the utterance of ‘Aghoraya’, the deity is invoked with the Manthra ‘Thathpurushaya’.  The prepared Shivalinga should be installed on the sanctified place with the utterance of  ‘Ishana Sarvavidhyanam’ with the prescribed chants.  The worship of deity should be performed with the Shodashopachara, and the recitation of Panchakshara Manthra.”

Bhavaya Bhavanashaya  Mahadevaya Dheemahi | Ugra Ugranashaya Sharvaya Shashimauline||

Sutha Pauranika continues “ Oh! Dhvija, worship of supreme Lord Mahadeva who is the essence of Universe and its living beings, and the destroyer of the same, I shall take refuge at the lotus feet of Lord Mahadeva who is fierce, adorned in the crescent moon on the matted hair locks, he is the destroyer of brutality/violence in the Universe.  Whoever conducts the worship of Lord Shiva with intense devotion and faith, and sincerely follows the prescribed rites would attain an abundance of piousness.  Oh! Dhvija, I have explained the Vedic way of adoration of supreme Lord Mahadeva as Parththiva Shivalinga. I shall narrate the simple method of worship of Parththiva Shivalinga too. Oh! Munishreshta listen to me carefully, the supreme Lord Mahadeva has the sacred names like Hara who is the destroyer of sins and miseries of the worldly existence,  Maheshwara who is mighty Lord, he is Shoolapani who is wielded in powerful trident,  Shambhu who is compassionate and benevolent, Pinakadhrik who is wielded in Pinaka, Shiva who symbolizes auspiciousness, Pashupati who is the Lord of living beings.  The worshiper should recite the sacred names of Lord Shiva and sprinkle water on the collected sand and construct the Parththiva Linga and install it in a sanctified place, adoration of flowers and with the simple offerings, pouring water on the Linga, can be performed with the utterance of simple hymns.”

Kailasapeetasanamadhyastham Bhaktha: Sa Nandhadhibhirarchyamanam | Bhaktharththi Dhavanalam Aprameyam Dhyayeth UmamaLingitha Vishwabhooshanam || Dhyayen Nithyam  Mahesham Rajathagirinibham  Charuchandravathamsam  Rathnakalpojjvalangam Parashu Mrigavarabhithi Hastham Prasannam | Padmaseenam Samanthath Sthutham Amaraganairvyaghrakrithim Vasanam  Vishwadhyam Vishwabeejam Nikhilabhayaharam Panchavakthram Thrinethram||

Sutha Pauranika continues “ Oh! Dhvija, meditation upon the Supreme Lord reciting the chants, I shall prostrate before the supreme Lord Shiva who symbolizes forest fire that destroys all the miseries and sorrows of the worldly existence, he is unblemished,  seated on the pinnacle of the Mount Kailasha, surrounded by ardent devotees like Nandhi and Devaganas immerses in the worship of the supreme Lord Mahadeva, I shall repeatedly prostrate before that supreme Lord who has assumed the form of Linga remains in the embrace of Goddess Uma who adores the entire Universe. I shall contemplate upon supreme Lord  Mahesha who is seated on the top of Rajathagiri/silver mountain has a pleasing appearance, adorned in a crescent moon, he has the luster of a precious gem, adorned in various precious ornaments,  holding Parashu, antelope, and has a pleasing smile always, he is seated on the Padmasana posture,  surrounded by illustrious Rishis and Sages, and deities, who eulogizes the endless glories of Lord Mahadeva.  He is primordial/Vishwadhyam, he is the cause of the Universe and its living beings/prime seed/Vishwabeejam, he has five faces and each face has three eyes, he is unblemished remove all the fears and anxieties of worldly existence. In this way, the worshiper can conduct a simple method of veneration of Parththiva Shivalinga with the recitation of Panchakshara Manthra. An intellectual should recite as many as hymns and conduct worship, a Dhvija should recite Shatharudri and conduct veneration of Parththiva Linga, and offer flowers and yellow unbroken rice on the Linga with following prayers “Oh! Mrida, I shall surrender at your lotus feet, kindly shower your auspicious grace on us, Oh! Kripanidhi/ocean of mercy Oh! Bhoothanatha who is Lord of Bhoothaganas, kindly protect us. Oh! Bhagavan whatever Kriyas and Karma I have performed are surrender at your lotus feet, Oh! Shankara kindly showers your auspicious grace on us. Oh! Bhagavan, I am a sinner, you are the purifier of souls, Oh! Gaurisha, kindly do whatever I deserve in this life. Oh! Sadhashiva, even the Veda, Rishis, Sidhdhantha, and Puranas are incompetent to describe your splendor, how could I praise your glories? Oh! Maheshwara, Oh! Parameshwara, kindly protect us.”  Oh! Dhvija, after the conclusion of prayers, offers flowers and unbroken yellow rice, circumambulates the deity and prostrate before him, produces the soft sound of goat humbly, and offers salutations to the Lord. Oh! Munishardhoola, I have described the method of veneration of Parththiva Shivalinga, which provides Bhoga as well as Moksha, and it enhances the devotion at the lotus feet of Lord Mahadeva.”

Ithyadhyayam Suchiththena Ya; Padeth Shrunuyadhapi | Sarvapapa Vishudhdhathma Sarva Kamanavapnuyath || Ayur Arogyadham Chaiva  Yashasyam Swargameva Cha | Puthra Pauthradhi Sukhadhamakhyanmudhamuththamam ||

Whoever reads or listens to it would get relieved from all the sins, and all their desires get fulfilled. It would provide long life, good health, fame, heavenly pleasures, virtuous children and grandchildren, and all the pleasures on the Earth as well.

||Om Nama: Shivaya||

Chapter – 33 – Vindhyeshwara Samhitha – 19

Yatha Sarveshu Deveshu Jyeshta: Shreshto Maheshwara: | Yevam Sarveshu Lingeshu Parthivam Shreshtamucchyathe ||Yatha Nadhishu Sarvasu Jyeshta Shreshta Surapaga| Thatha Sarveshu Lingeshu Parththivam Shreshtam Ucchayathe || Yatha Sarveshu Manthreshu Pranavo Hi Mahansmritha: | Thadhedham Parththivam Shreshtam Aradhyam Poojyameva Hi || Yatha Sarveshu Varneshu Bhramana: Shreshta Ucchyathe | Thatha Sarveshu Lingeshu Parththivam Shreshtam Ucchyathe || Yatha Purishu Sarvasu Kashi Shreshtathama Smritha| Thatha Sarveshu Lingeshu Parththivam Shreshtam Ucchyathe || Yatha Vratheshu Sarveshu Shivarathrivratham Paramam| Thatha Sarveshu Lingeshu Parththivam Shreshtamucchyathe ||

Rishis speak “ Oh! Sutha, Oh! Chiranjeeva, Oh! Shivabhakthiman, Oh! Fortunate one, you have enlightened us with the knowledge of Lingamahima which provides an abundance of piousness to the worshiper. Oh! Sutha, kindly elaborate the description of Parthivamaheshalinga/Linga made out of clay, which was discussed earlier.”

Sutha Pauranika speaks “Oh! Rishis, I am highly pleased with your devotion, listen to me carefully, I shall describe Shivaparthivalinga in detail.  The worship of Parthivashivalinga is highly propitious, the deities, Lord Hari, Brama, illustrious Rishis and Sages, and Prajapathis have worshiped the Parthivashilinga and attained various merits. Oh! Vipra, worship of Parthivashivalinga provides a highly meritorious reward to the worshiper, the deities, demons, Gandharvas, Rakshasa, and Siddhas have attained Paramam Gathi.  In the Krita Yuga, the worship of Linga was performed to the Ling made out the gem, in the  Threthayuga worship of Linga made out of Gold was performed, Dwaparayuga worship of Linga made out of silver was performed, in the Kali era Parthivalinga made out of clay is considered as highly auspicious.  The worship of Ashtamoorthi linga made of clay would provide commendable meritorious rewards. Oh! Vipra, the worship of Parthivalinga is superior among the Lingas, likewise, river Ganga is superior among the rivers.  Parthiva Linga is superior as Omkara/Pranava among the sacred chants, Brahmanas among the Varnas, Kashi is superior among the sacred lands on the Earth and the Shivarathrivratha is superior among the Vrathas.  The worship of  Parththivalinga is considered as superior among Lingas, like Goddess Parvathi among the female deities, and worship of any Linga following austerities except Parththivalinga is considered as futile.”

Parththivaradhanam Punyam Dhanyamayur Vivardhanam | Thushtidham Pushtidham Sreedham  Karyam Sadhakasaththamai: ||

Sutha Pauranika speaks “Oh! Vipra, whoever worships Parththivalinga would attain punyam/piousness, Dhanam/wealth, Ayur/long life, Thushti/contentment, Pushti/good health, Sreedham/money and richness, and success in all endeavors.  The worship of Parththivalinga should be made with whatever ingredients available.  The worship of Parththivalinga with intense devotion and faith venerates with bale leaves, the touch of the Linga itself would provide all the auspiciousness, removes the sins and provides nearness to Lord Mahadeva.  The worshiper would remain Jeevanmuktha, enriched with the supreme knowledge of Prakrithi and Purusha ultimately attains liberation from repeated births.  The worshiper who adores Parththivalinga in whole life would attain the abode of Lord Shiva, later takes birth in Bharatha Bhoomi, and rules the earth as Rajendra.  The worshiper who adores Parththivalinga without any desire would attain Sayujyam and remains in the Shivaloka.  Oh! Vipra who does not worship Parththivalinga at least once in their life would be heaved to the hell Shoolaprotham where the sinner would be punished with the sharp spear.  The worship of any Linga made of Parththiva,  Linga made of Gold, silver, Gem, Crystal, should not be a divided one.  There are two types of Linga Akhandam is movable/Charalinga, and Dhvikhandam is immovable,  the Linga and the pedestal of the Linga represent Lord Maheshwara and Mahavidhya respectively.”

||Om Nama: Shivaya||

Chapter – 32 – Vindhyeshwara Samhitha – 18 - 2

Gurupujaiva  Pooja  Swayam Shivasya Paramathmana: | Guruseva  Thu Yath Sarvathmashudhdhikari Bhaveth||

Sutha Pauranika speaks “ Oh! Vipra, the preceptor is the one who removes the darkness of ignorance in the disciple, he is pure and beyond Gunas, considered as Param Shiva, implants virtues in his disciple.  The preceptor removes all three Gunas in his disciple and enlightens him with faith and knowledge of Lord Shiva, therefore the preceptor is considered as Gurulingam, and the worship and services are performed to him so that the disciple remains intellectual always.  The disciple who promised to follow the command of the preceptor should sincerely abide them by words, action, and thoughts, in this way the disciple who sincerely follows all the commands of the preceptor is considered as an ideal disciple, should relentlessly serve the preceptor, as a son.  The preceptor whose tongue like Linga, and the Manthra as semen, deposits in the ears of the disciple which is considered as Yoni, in this way they create the bondage of father and son.  The preceptor bestows knowledge and wisdom in a disciple, to easily cross the unfathomable ocean of worldly existence.  The preceptor’s body is considered as the form of Lord Shiva, it should be worshiped and relentlessly served by the disciple, it is the duty of the disciple to serve the preceptor with the wealth and ingredients possible, offering wealth and sandalwood Padhuka, serving him with needs, performing Abhisheka and Naivedhya, etc. The adoration of the preceptor is considered as the adoration of Lord Shiva, it purifies the disciple.  The leftover ingredients after the veneration of preceptors are considered as Prasada, possession of items without the permission of the preceptor is considered as stolen items.  The preceptor, who removes the ignorance in the disciple should be honored and should not create any obstruction in attaining knowledge from him."

Sutha Pauranika speaks "The worship of any deities can be carried out with the initial obeisance to Lord Ganesha/Vignesha, the worship of all the deities removes physical ailments.  The Shanthiyajja is performed to remove the nightmares and inauspicious dreams, and sins, epidemic, etc as prescribed in the scripture.  The performance of sun worship and recitation of Panchakshara Manthra hundred and eight times or Suryanamaskar and worship Lord Shiva and performance of circumambulation would bring an abundance of piousness and removes sins of the worshiper.  The worship of Bhramin and serving them with meals would bring an abundance of wealth; Lord Bhairava should be worshiped to please the spirits, along with the performance of Shivapooja, offering Mahaneivedhyam to Lord Shiva, etc. should be carried out meticulously.  The Shanthiyajja is conducted once in a year in the month of Phalgun, to remove all the sins of the worshiper.  If the worshiper is too poor, he/she can offer charity of earthen lamp, or something which is affordable, after bath perform salutations to sun, and recitation of hundred eight Panchakshara Manthra or the worshiper can perform several thousands of sun worship/Suryanamaskara to please Lord Surya with theAthmayajja as well.  The circumambulation of Lord Shiva removes all the sins of the worshiper, sins are the root cause for the sufferings and ailments.  These sins can be washed out following the Dharmic way of living prescribed in the scriptures.  The performance of any righteous deed that pleases Lord Shiva would remove the sins of the worshiper.  The recitation of Omkara and circumambulation of Lord Shiva is highly propitious.”

Jananm Maranam Dhvandham Mayachakramithiritham | Shivasya Mayachakre Hi Balipeedam Thadhuchyathe ||

Sutha Pauranika continues “ Oh! Mahamathe, The repetition of birth and death takes place under the influence of ‘Mayachakra’ of Lord Shiva, worship of the Balipeedam which represents Mayacakra, is a method of surrendering to supreme Lord who is the creator of Mayachakra.  The performance of Mahapuja/Shodasha Puja of Lord Shiva provides an auspicious reward to the worshiper.  The circumambulation of Lord Shiva removes all the sins of the worshiper.  A Mouni/speechless person who conducts adoration of Lord Shiva yields the merit of truthfulness, Tapas, meditation and wisdom,  Siddhi, attractive physique, removal of ignorance, nobility and closeness to Lord Shiva.  The worship of Lord Shiva should be conducted according to the Time, and Zone of the country the worshiper and physical health and financial status. An intellectual who have fair means of earning should reside close to the vicinity of the temple of Lord Shiva, he/she should not engage in the killing of creatures or causing disturbance to others.  A devotee of Lord Shiva should impart the knowledge on sacred chants on Lord Shiva, even though Lord Shiva himself only knows about the glories of these sacred chants.  Oh! Bhoosura/twice-born, the ardent devotees of Lord Shiva remains close to Linga,  in this way taking refuge close to a Sthanulinga, he himself turns out Lord Shiva on the Earth.”

Shivabhaktho Vasennithyam Shivalingam Samashritha: | Sthanulingashrayenaiva Sthanur Bhavathi Bhoosura: ||

Whoever reads or listens to it would attain all the auspiciousness, intense devotion at the lotus feet of Supreme Lord Shiva.  Whoever reads or listen to this glorious chapter would attain knowledge on the beliefs of Lord Shiva with his grace.

||Om Nama: Shivaya||

Chapter – 31 – Vindhyeshwara Samhitha – 18 - 1

Rishis speak “Oh! Sutha, kindly describe how to attain redemption/Moksha from worldly bondage?”

Sutha Pauranika speaks “ Oh! Rishis, listen to me carefully, I shall narrate you the ways to achieve freedom from worldly bondage.  The souls are intertwined with the Ashtabandhan/eight types of bondage, once the Jeevathma relieved from these eight types of bondage would be considered as Jeevanmuktha.  The Prakrithi comprises Buddhi, Ahamkara, Guna, Panchathanmathra, the Jeeva is bound by these eight types of bondages, and it performs Karma/duties and responsibilities.  The body is three types known as Jyeyam, Sthoolam and Sookshmam.  The Sthoola shareera/gross body performs the tasks, and the subtle form/Sookshmashareera is the source of performance of Indhriyas/sense organs, the Karma is the source of grief and happiness.  The Jeeva attains body according to their Karma and keeps taking rebirth on the Earth.  If the Jeeva desired to liberate from the Kalachakra is the Mahachakra causes repeated births, it should worship Jagadheeshwara, Lord Shiva who is beyond Prakrithi and Time.  Lord Shiva is the controller of the Universe and its living beings, he is Sarvajja, he is flawless, he is all-pervading and unblemished.  Lord Maheshwara is immeasurable, he symbolizes Veda and Vedantha.  He is the controller of Prakrithi and all the essential elements, hence Lord Shiva should be worshiped to attain his grace.  Whoever worships Lord Shiva along with Goddess Parvathi, with no fruitful desires, would please the Lord.  Lord Shiva is worshiped in the form of Linga, following austerities, complete control over senses, offering flowers, and various ingredients, followed with the recitation of Vedic hymns, whoever worships Lord Maheshwara with intense devotion and faith would attain the grace of Lord, after leaving the Earth the worshiper would attain union to Lord Shiva/Samba.  The offering of cooked rice to Lord Maheshwara as Mahaprasadha would control the impurities in the worshiper and remains blissful and auspicious.  The worship of Ling following austerities, offering lotus flowers, with the constant contemplation of supreme Lord, provides salvation to the worshiper.”

Rishis speak “Oh! Sutha, kindly describe the method of worship of Lord Shiva and Shivalinga.”

Sutha Pauranika speaks “Oh! Rishis, I shall narrate the method of veneration of Linga form of supreme Lord Shiva and Goddess ShivA.   The worship of Pranava Linga/Panchakshara Linga is the supreme form of worship of Linga that has subtle form/formlessness.  The worship of Pranavalinga following extreme penance would provide Moksha.  There are several types of Linga, only Lord Shiva could narrate all of them. I have already narrated about the Parththivalinga/linga made out of clay.  The self-manifested Linga/Swayambhu Linga like the sprouts appears piercing the Beeja, Bindu Linga, Gurulinga.  The Devarshis performs extreme penance and attains union with the supreme Lord.  The Linga made of gold, silver, or clay, or drawn and Pranavamanthra has written on it, moveable or immovable Linga can be used for the worship.  The regular worship of Linga brings fortune and prowess.  The worship of Prakrata Linga/created by the artisans provides appropriate companion as a wedded wife, worship of Rasalinga is superior among Charalinga/movable, it fulfills all the desires of the twice-born, worship of Bana linga provides Kingsmanship to Kshatriya, the worship of Linga made of Gold by a Vaishya brings enormous wealth, worship of the Linga made of stones purifies even the Shudras.  The worship of crystal and Banalinga fulfills all the desires of the worshiper.  The Parththiva Linga made of sand or clay on the seashore, or river banks by the woman whose husband is alive, worship of the same would provide an abundance of meritorious rewards, a widow who is engaged in worldly duties can worship crystal Linga, a widow who is freed from worldly duties can worship Rasa Linga.  Oh! Munisaththama, worship of crystal Linga at any stage of life, childhood, youthful and old age fulfills all the desires of the worshiper.  The worship of Linga following austerities, ritual bath, and offer cooked rice and served sumptuous meals to Brahmana.  The renounced souls should worship subtle Linga and adore with ashes.  There are three types of ashes Lokajanitha, Vedajanitha and Shivagnijanitha Bhasma.  The Lokajanitha Bhasma is utilized for cleaning the vessels, this ashes made of worldly fire would cleanse the dust from the vessels, ashes made of domestic fire is Vedagni Janitha Bhasma during the performance of fire sacrifices, reciting Vedic chants, should be preserved.  The Shivagni Janitha Bhasma is produced from the cow-dung, followed with the recitation of  Vedic chants, the ashes collected from the holy trees like Palasha, Banyan, wood apple, burning in the Shivagni is considered as pure.  The Vedagni Janitha Bhasma and Shivagnijanitha Bhasma is considered as highly auspicious, smearing all over the body would provide meritorious rewards and removes illusion.  The food consumed is burned by the Jataragni, likewise, the supreme Lord Shiva who created the Universe and its living beings burns the illusion.  The Supreme Lord Shiva is smeared in sacred ashes all over the body, his matted hair locks represent the sky,  mouth represents wind, the heart represents fire, waist represent water, and knee represents Earth, and all his limbs represent the different part of the Universe.  Lord Bhrama, Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva adore Thripundra/three lines of sacred ashes on their forehead, as respect to Lord Maheshwara.  The worship of Lord Shiva is conducted after smearing sacred ashes, it can be used adding water or without water, anyone can adorn their forehead with Thripundra of sacred ashes at any time; there are no strict rules for woman or man to adore their forehead with the Thripundra of sacred ashes, whoever adores their forehead with Thripundra would attain the merit of worship of Lord Shiva.  The ascetics whose body is completely smeared Shivagni Janitha Bhasma would be considered as Lord Rudra attains the union with Lord Shiva.  Whoever undertakes vows and austerities with the guidance of a preceptor, adoring Thripundra and worships Lord Shiva would get purified and remain free from the impurities of birth and death.”

||Om Nama: Shivaya||

Chapter – 31 – Vindhyeshwara Samhitha – 17 -3

Poojaya  Shivabakthasya Shiva:  Preethatharo Bhaveth | Shivasya  Shivabhakthasya  Bhedho Nasthi Shivo Hi Sa: ||

Sutha Pauranika speaks “ Oh! Brahmanas, whoever worships the passionate devotees of Lord Shiva and whoever finds no difference between Lord Shiva and his devotees would make Lord Shiva highly pleased.  Whoever constantly recites the Panchakshra Manthra would become Lord Shiva, his body would become the dwelling place of Lord Shiva.  The intellectuals who have a profound knowledge in Veda, Vedantha, with the constant recitation of Panchakshara achieves the nearness to Lord Shiva.  The women devotees of Lord Shiva who are engaged in the constant practices of meditation and recitation of Panchakshara Manthra would attain the status of Devilingam and attain the nearness to Goddess ShivA.  The worship Paramba Bhagavathi along with Lord Shiva, who are inseparable, would remove the illusion in the worshiper.  The worship of Lord Shiva and Goddess ShivA with Manthraupasana, followed by Shodashaupacharas, serving the intellectual Bhramanas with sumptuous meals would provide commendable merit to the worshiper.  A twice-born who strictly follows the austerities, worship, meditation, vows, etc. is considered superior to the ten twice-born engaged in daily rites. A twice-born with Shivagnana is considered more superior than the thousands of Brahmans who performs recitation of Manthra.  A twice-born engaged in Dhyana is superior to lakhs of Bhramans with Shivagnana, the twice-born who has successfully attained the state of Samadhi is considered superior to crores of Bhramans engaged in meditation. Oh! Mune, I have described the various methods of worship of Lord Shiva along with Goddess ShivA, the reward for the worship is not known even to the intellectuals.  Oh! Munishwara, whoever adores Goddess ShivA and Lord Shiva without any difference and followed with intense devotion and faith,  Whoever reads or listens to the Shiva Puranam which is the essence of Veda, from a Vipra who is well-versed in Veda,  would become beloved of Lord Shiva and remains Shivagnani.  The worshiper would attain the grace of Lord Shiva and remains intellectual.

Kurutho  Yo Naro  Bhakthya  Sa Shiva: ShivAmedhathe | Ya Imam Padathe Adhyayamarthavedathe Sammatham || Shivagnani Bhaveth Vipra: Shivena Saha Modhathe | Shravaye Shivabhakthamshcha Visheshajjo Muneeshwara: || Shivaprasadhasiddhi: Swayashivasya Kripaya Budha: ||