Patna: The holy month of Sawan, considered the most sacred period for the worship of Lord Shiva, began on Thursday with a rare conjunction of Shravan Nakshatra, Ayushman Yoga and Saubhagya Yoga.
According to Hindu beliefs, worshipping Uma-Maheshwar, observing fasts and offering water to the Shivling during such an auspicious alignment is regarded as especially meritorious. The month will continue until August 28.
Four Sawan Mondays This Year
This year’s Sawan will include four Mondays, known as Sawan Somwars, which are considered highly significant for Shiva devotees.
The first Monday falls on August 3, followed by August 10, August 17 and August 24. Two of these Mondays occur during the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the Moon), while the remaining two fall in the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase).
Why Water Is Offered to the Shivling
According to Hindu mythology, the Samudra Manthan, or Churning of the Ocean, took place during the month of Sawan. During the event, Lord Shiva consumed the deadly Halahal poison to protect the universe, causing his throat to turn blue and earning him the name Neelkanth.
It is believed that the gods and goddesses offered water to Lord Shiva to ease the effects of the poison. As a result, offering water to the Shivling during Sawan is regarded as one of the most important forms of worship.
The Shiv Puran also describes water as a sacred offering associated with Lord Shiva, and devotees believe that performing Jal Abhishek during Sawan brings spiritual merit.
Rituals Associated With Health and Well-Being
Religious traditions also associate Sawan Mondays with prayers for health and well-being. According to Hindu beliefs, devotees seeking relief from prolonged illness perform Abhishek on the Shivling using water mixed with milk and black sesame seeds while chanting the mantra “Om Jum Sah”.
The Mahamrityunjaya Mantra is also widely recited during the month. Many devotees undertake its chanting in prescribed counts or arrange for its recitation as part of religious observances, believing it brings protection, peace and spiritual strength.
