In the Sanatana Hindu tradition, Lord Shiva is uniquely positioned as Mahadeva, the God of gods. He is the destroyer and transformer within the Trimurti, as well as the supreme ascetic and Ashutosh, the easily pleased one. Lord Shiva manifests in myriad forms, from the fierce Bhairava to the benevolent Bholenath, bestowing welfare upon His devotees. While Shiva is worshipped daily, Monday (Somvar) is considered exceptionally significant for His puja and aradhana (worship). This day is revered in Shaiva tradition as the most auspicious and fruitful day for attaining Lord Shiva’s grace. This article endeavors to conduct a profound exploration into why Monday is specifically chosen for the worship of Lord Shiva. It will encompass diverse aspects such as the etymology of the word “Somvar,” Puranic narratives, astrological connections, spiritual philosophy, the benefits derived from such worship, puja rituals, and its importance within the Nepali cultural context. The practice of Monday Shiva worship is widespread among Hindus, indicating its ancient roots and profound scriptural basis. Various Puranas, scriptures, and spiritual discourses affirm the importance of Monday Shiva worship. This tradition is also immensely popular in Nepal, with festivals like “Saune Sombar” highlighting its cultural significance. This article will present a detailed analysis of all these facets.
The Genesis of Somvar: Unraveling the Monday-Shiva Connection
The connection between Monday and Lord Shiva is embedded within the very structure and sound of the word “Somvar.”
A. Etymological Roots
- “Somvar” – The Day of “Soma” (The Moon): The word “Somvar” (सोमवार) is derived from the Sanskrit words “Soma” (सोम), a principal name for the Moon, and “Var” (वार), meaning day. Thus, Somvar is unequivocally the Moon’s day. As Lord Shiva adorns the Moon on His head, this day naturally becomes associated with Him.
- The Sacred Sound “Om” (ॐ) in “Somvar”: There is also a belief that the pronunciation of “Somvar” subtly contains the sound “Om” (ॐ). Lord Shiva is revered as “Omkar Swaroopa,” the embodiment of Omkar. This phonetic resonance further sanctifies Monday for Shiva worship, linking the day not only to the Moon He wears but also to the essence of His cosmic sound.
B. Lord Shiva and the Moon: Chandrashekhara, Somnath, Someshwara
The relationship between Lord Shiva and the Moon is profound and rooted in Puranic tales, further elevating Monday Shiva worship’s significance.
- The Puranic Tale of Chandra (Moon God) and Daksha’s Curse: According to Puranic accounts, Chandra (the Moon God) was married to the 27 daughters of Daksha Prajapati (personifications of the Nakshatras). However, Chandra showed excessive affection only towards Rohini, neglecting the others. Angered by this, Daksha cursed Chandra to wane, causing his luminescence to diminish. This led to suffering in the world as medicinal herbs dependent on moonlight began to wither.
- Chandra’s Penance, Shiva’s Grace, and the Moon Adorning Shiva’s Locks (Chandrashekhara): Advised by Brahma, Chandra sought refuge in Lord Shiva and performed severe penance for six months at Prabhasa Tirtha (modern-day Somnath), worshipping a Shiva Linga. Pleased by his devotion, Shiva appeared. While unable to completely nullify Daksha’s curse, Shiva offered a compromise: Chandra would wane during Krishnapaksha (dark fortnight) and wax during Shuklapaksha (bright fortnight). This cycle reflects the rhythm of time and life. Granting protection and grace, Shiva adorned the crescent moon on His matted hair, thereby earning the epithet Chandrashekhara (“the one who wears the moon on his head”). This act signifies Shiva’s control over time, emotions, and the mind, as the Moon influences these aspects.
- The Establishment and Meaning of Somnath – “Lord/Protector of the Moon”: The Shiva Linga worshipped by Chandra at Prabhasa Tirtha became renowned as the first Jyotirlinga, Somnath (“Protector of the Moon God” or “Lord of Soma/Moon”). This establishes a direct and powerful link between the primary pilgrimage site of Shiva and the Moon God’s devotion to Him. The term “Someshwar” is also used for Shiva, meaning “Lord of Soma,” whom Somnath (Chandra) worshipped as his Lord.
- Shiva as Someshwara – The Controller of Lunar Energies and Their Impact on the Mind: Shiva’s Someshwara form emphasizes His control over lunar cycles, natural rhythms, and the emotional tides of the mind. Worship of Someshwara is particularly sought for mental peace, emotional balance, and relief from stress, as the Moon governs the mind (Manas) in Hindu astrology and tradition.
The term “Soma” signifies not only the Moon but also a sacred ritual drink in Vedic tradition, associated with immortality, nourishment, and divine bliss. Thus, Shiva as Someshwara is the lord of both the physical moon and its cycles, and the divine, life-sustaining, bliss-inducing Soma essence. Shiva wearing the crescent moon and, in some depictions of Someshwara, holding a bowl of soma, affirms this dual connection. Therefore, worshipping Shiva on “Somvar” (Monday) taps into both these aspects – seeking balance related to lunar (mental/emotional) energies and aspiring for spiritual nourishment, longevity, and divine bliss associated with the Vedic Soma. This enriches the understanding of why Monday is chosen, extending beyond the mere physical presence of the Moon on Shiva’s head to a deeper spiritual dimension.
The names Chandrashekhara, Somnath, and Someshwara are not mere epithets but are deeply rooted in specific Puranic narratives and philosophical concepts. Daksha’s curse on Chandra led to Chandra worshipping Shiva, resulting in Shiva wearing the moon (Chandrashekhara), the site of worship becoming Somnath, and Shiva being recognized as Someshwara, the controller of lunar influences. These names serve as narrative anchors, each recalling a specific divine intervention and aspect of Shiva’s power and compassion related to the Moon. Understanding these names and their stories deepens the devotee’s connection during worship.
C. Puranic Narratives Reinforcing Monday Worship
- Chandra Dev’s Specific Worship of Shiva on Monday: It is believed that Chandra Dev specifically worshipped Lord Shiva on a Monday to be freed from his affliction (disease/curse) and regain his beauty/radiance, performing Jalabhishek (ritual water offering). This act established the tradition of Monday Shiva worship for overcoming troubles and ensuring good health.
- The Samudra Manthan (Churning of the Ocean) and Shravan Somvar: During the Samudra Manthan, Lord Shiva consumed the Halahala poison to save the universe, which turned His throat blue (Neelkanth). While the poison consumption did not occur on a specific Monday, the subsequent offerings (especially holy water/Ganga Jal) by gods and devotees to soothe Shiva’s burning throat are strongly associated with the month of Shravan, and particularly Shravan Somvars (Mondays in Shravan). Shiva’s act of compassion and sacrifice is commemorated with intense devotion on these Mondays.
- Goddess Parvati’s Penance (Solah Somvar Vrat): A popular belief holds that Goddess Parvati observed the “Solah Somvar Vrat” (16 Monday fasts) with rigorous penance to win Lord Shiva as her husband. This legend is a powerful motivator, especially for unmarried women seeking a good husband and for married women seeking marital bliss and family well-being.
D. Cosmic Alignments and Spiritual Science
According to spiritual leader Sadhguru, Monday worship aligns spiritual energies with cosmic and lunar influences. In yogic tradition, the solar system is viewed as a “potter’s wheel” that shapes life, and practices like Shiva worship help synchronize individual energies with these larger cosmic forces. Since “Som” means Moon, Monday worship is linked to the Moon’s influence. The Moon’s gravitational pull significantly affects human emotions and mental states; thus, spiritual practices attuned to lunar phases are thought to enhance inner growth.
The connection between “Somvar” and “Om” elevates the significance of Monday worship beyond the purely mythological or astrological. Lord Shiva is revered as “Omkar Swaroopa,” the embodiment of the primordial cosmic sound Om, the source of all creation. This phonetic and conceptual link suggests that worshipping Shiva on Monday is also an act of connecting with the ultimate reality, the foundational vibration of the universe, making the worship deeply meditative and spiritually potent.
The Blessings of Somvar Aradhana: Benefits of Monday Worship
Worshipping Lord Shiva on Mondays is believed to bestow multifaceted benefits—spiritual, mental, emotional, and material—upon devotees. These benefits are interconnected, reflecting a holistic worldview where spiritual well-being influences mental, emotional, and material states. This worship is not merely a transactional process but a transformative practice, where the “fruits” (फल) are outgrowths of a deeper internal purification and alignment.
A. Spiritual Attainment
- Inner Peace and Relief: Monday Shiva worship is believed to grant profound inner peace, tranquility, and relief from worldly struggles and afflictions. Sadhguru emphasizes the calming effect of praying to Shiva on the mind and body.
- Purification of Karma and Spiritual Growth: Devotion on Mondays helps cleanse past karmas and overcome hardships, fostering spiritual growth and aligning devotees with higher cosmic forces. The Skanda Purana and Padma Purana mention that Monday worship leads to salvation and other spiritual benefits. Reading the Shiva Purana on Mondays is also considered highly meritorious.
- Attainment of Salvation (Moksha) and Divine Blessings: Moksha, the ultimate spiritual goal, is believed to be facilitated by dedicated Monday worship. This practice ensures the fulfillment of specific desires and objectives when visiting Shiva temples.
B. Mental and Emotional Harmony
- Alleviation of Stress and Emotional Balance: Worshipping Shiva, especially as Someshwara (controller of the moon, which influences emotions), helps in achieving mental peace and emotional balance, relieving stress and anxiety.
- Enhanced Mental Clarity and Self-Mastery: Fasting and prayers on Mondays improve mental clarity, concentration, focus, willpower, and self-control. The Shiva Gayatri Mantra is specifically chanted for enhancing intellect.
C. Material Prosperity and Well-being
- Fulfillment of Righteous Desires (Manokamana Purti): Sincere worship on Mondays is widely believed to fulfill devotees’ righteous wishes.
- Good Health, Longevity, and Success: Devotees are blessed with good health, longevity, and success in their endeavors, including business and career. The Mahamrityunjaya Mantra, often recited, is for warding off untimely death and diseases.
- Marital Harmony and Virtuous Spouse: Observing Monday fasts, particularly the Solah Somvar Vrat, is believed to grant a good life partner for the unmarried and ensure marital bliss, happiness, and longevity of the husband for the married. This is linked to Goddess Parvati’s penance.
- Blessings for Progeny: Childless couples observe these fasts with the hope of being blessed with children. The story of the merchant in the Somvar Vrat Katha illustrates this.
D. Significance of Specific Somvar Vrats
The legends of Goddess Parvati’s penance (Solah Somvar Vrat, Shravan Somvar) are central to the popular observance of these fasts, particularly among women. Parvati’s success in achieving her desires through these fasts provides a powerful mythological precedent and source of inspiration, making these Somvar Vrats particularly resonant and widely adopted by women. This underscores the importance of the Divine Feminine even in practices centered around a male deity.
- Shravan Somvar (Saune Sombar): Mondays in the month of Shravan (Saun) are exceptionally auspicious. This is Shiva’s favorite month, partly due to the Samudra Manthan episode where He drank poison; offerings during Shravan (especially Jalabhishek) are believed to soothe Him. It is believed that nature itself performs Rudrabhishek with rainfall. Astrologically, the lord of the Shravan constellation is the Moon, which adorns Shiva’s head, and the sun’s transit into Cancer during Shravan brings rain, pleasing Shiva. Fasting and worship during Shravan Somvar are considered highly fruitful for the overall well-being, health, and longevity of family members.
- Solah Somvar Vrat (Sixteen Mondays Fast): This is a vow to fast for sixteen consecutive Mondays. It is deeply rooted in the legend of Goddess Parvati observing this vrat to marry Lord Shiva. According to the Shiva Purana/legend, a priest was cured of leprosy by observing this vrat, and subsequently, Parvati herself observed it. This vrat is observed for fulfilling various desires, marital bliss, obtaining a desired life partner, and overall peace and prosperity. It is also believed to strengthen the Moon in one’s birth chart.
- Som Pradosh: This is a fast observed when Pradosh Vrat (13th day of the lunar fortnight) falls on a Monday. This combines the sanctity of Monday with the auspicious Pradosh time for Shiva worship.
Overview of Somvar Vrat Benefits
| Category of Benefit | Specific Benefits |
|---|---|
| Spiritual | Inner peace, Karma cleansing, Attainment of Salvation, Divine blessings |
| Mental/Emotional | Stress relief, Emotional balance, Enhanced mental clarity, Self-mastery |
| Material/Physical | Good health, Longevity, Success, Fulfillment of righteous desires, Marital harmony, Virtuous spouse, Progeny, Financial gain |
The Ritual Path: Puja Vidhi, Mantras, and Offerings
The worship of Lord Shiva on Mondays is performed with specific rituals and offerings, each carrying profound meaning and helping the devotee establish a deeper connection with the divine.
A. General Worship Procedure for Monday (Somvar Puja Vidhi)
- Preparation: Begin the day with a purifying bath (snana) and wear clean clothes, preferably white. The puja area should be clean and sacred.
- Invocation (Avahana): Invoke Lord Shiva with mantras. Light a lamp (deepa) and incense (dhoop).
- Worship of Shiva Lingam: The Shiva Lingam is central to the worship. This can be done at a temple or at home.
- Abhishekam (Ritual Ablution): This is a key ritual, involving the ceremonial bathing of the Lingam with various sacred substances.
- Substances include pure water (shuddha jal), Ganga Jal (water from the Ganges), milk (doodh), curd (dahi), honey (madhu), ghee (clarified butter), sugar (chini) – collectively forming Panchamrit. Sugarcane juice and coconut water are also used.
- Offerings (Samarpan): After Abhishekam, offer Chandan (sandalwood paste), Akshat (uncooked rice), flowers (pushpa), Bel Patra (Bilva leaves), Dhatura (thorn-apple), and other items dear to Shiva.
- Mantra Chanting and Hymns: Recite Shiva mantras and stotras (hymns).
- Aarti: Conclude with Aarti, waving a lit lamp before the deity.
- Prasad: Offer Naivedhya (food offerings like fruits, sweets) and then distribute it among family and devotees.
- Fasting Rules (Vrat Niyam): Many observe a fast, consuming food once in the evening (often a sattvic meal) or only fruits and milk. Some observe strict fasts (Nirjala – without water, or Niraahar – without food).
B. Sacred Offerings (Pavitra Samagri) and Their Deeper Meanings
The offerings made during Shiva Puja are not mere substances but carry deep symbolic meanings. The choice of these offerings often reflects an ancient, holistic understanding of their purifying and therapeutic properties, aligning the devotee with natural, pure elements to counteract inner and outer “heat” and “toxins.”
- Panchamrit: A mixture of five nectars (milk, curd, honey, ghee, sugar). Each component has symbolism: Milk (purity, nourishment), Curd (prosperity), Honey (sweetness of life/devotion), Ghee (strength, vitality), Sugar (bliss). Offering Panchamrit is highly purifying.
- Bel Patra (Bilva Leaves): Extremely dear to Lord Shiva; worship is considered incomplete without it. Even a single leaf offered with devotion pleases Him (Ashutosh).
- Symbolism: The trifoliate leaf represents:
- The Holy Trinity (Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva).
- Lord Shiva’s three eyes (Trinetra).
- Shiva’s Trishula (Trident).
- The three Gunas (Sattva, Rajas, Tamas).
- The three syllables of AUM.
- Puranic Origin/References:
- Skanda Purana: The Bilva tree originated from Goddess Parvati’s sweat droplets on Mandrachal Mountain; Parvati resides in all forms in the tree. This makes offering Bel Patra akin to worshipping Shiva and Shakti together.
- Shiva Purana: Claims Bel leaf is among the six divine articles for Shiva worship. States that offering one Bel Patra with devotion grants blessings.
- Offered during Samudra Manthan to cool Shiva after He consumed poison.
- Offering Protocol: Offer fresh, unbroken leaves, usually in threes. Wash before offering. Avoid plucking on certain tithis/days like Chaturthi, Ashtami, Monday (as it’s Shiva’s day).
- Dhatura (Thorn-apple): A sacred offering symbolizing the surrender of ego, bitterness, negativities, and toxins (like hatred, jealousy, anger).
- Puranic Link (Vamana Purana): Dhatura is said to have emerged from Lord Shiva’s chest when He drank the Halahala poison during Samudra Manthan. Offering it helps in becoming pure and free from sins.
- Symbolism of its parts: White color (purity of mind), trumpet shape (awakening Kundalini), five points (five faces of Shiva), night bloom (deep meditation).
- Though poisonous, it’s offered symbolically for its spiritual significance in neutralizing negativity.
- Milk (Doodh): Symbolizes purity, nourishment, compassion, and a sattvic mindset.
- Puranic/Agamic Basis: Offered to cool and soothe Lord Shiva after He consumed the Halahala poison during Samudra Manthan.
- Shaiva Agamas prescribe Abhishekam with milk as integral to Shiva puja, energizing the deity and cleansing negative energy. Pouring milk is believed to release powerful vibrations.
- Offering milk is seen as nurturing the brain and soul with goodness.
- Water (Jal/Ganga Jal): Symbolizes purity, clarity, and the flow of divine energy. Ganga Jal is especially sacred.
- White Flowers (Seto Phool): Lord Shiva is fond of white flowers, symbolizing purity and reverence. Datura flowers are white.
- Chandan (Sandalwood Paste): Symbolizes coolness, purity, and promotes spiritual growth and inner calmness. Applied to the Lingam.
- Akshat (Unbroken Rice): Represents purity, sustenance, and gratitude for life’s blessings.
Dhoop (Incense) and Deep (Lamp): Dhoop purifies the atmosphere and carries prayers. Deep dispels darkness, inviting divine light, knowledge, and wisdom.
C. Potent Mantras (Shaktishali Mantraharu)
Mantras are not merely praises but are potent sonic tools for transformation. Each prescribed mantra is associated with specific benefits, aligning with the overall goals of Shiva worship: spiritual growth, mental peace, and physical well-being. The vibrations and meanings of these mantras are believed to interact with the devotee’s energy field and cosmic energies, making Monday Shiva worship an active process of self-transformation through sound.
- “Om Namah Shivaya” (ॐ नमः शिवाय) – The Panchakshara Mantra:
- The most fundamental and powerful five-syllable mantra for Lord Shiva, meaning “I bow to Shiva”.
- Chanting it 108 times purifies the mind and soul, develops concentration, provides divine energy, and brings peace.
- Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra (महामृत्युञ्जय मन्त्र):
- “ॐ त्र्यम्बकं यजामहे सुगन्धिं पुष्टिवर्धनम्। उर्वारुकमिव बन्धनान्मृत्योर्मुक्षीय माऽमृतात्॥” (Om Tryambakam Yajamahe Sugandhim Pushtivardhanam. Urvarukamiva Bandhanan Mrityormukshiya Maamritat).
- Addressed to Lord Shiva for warding off untimely death, bestowing longevity, health, wealth, vitality, and moksha. Protects against diseases and fear.
- Shiva Gayatri Mantra (शिव गायत्री मन्त्र):
- “ॐ तत्पुरुषाय विद्महे महादेवाय धीमहि। तन्नो रुद्रः प्रचोदयात्॥” (Om Tatpurushaya Vidmahe Mahadevaya Dhimahi. Tanno Rudrah Prachodayat).
- For higher intellect, wisdom, mental illumination, and strengthening self-confidence. Eliminates fear and anxiety.
- Rudra Mantra (रुद्र मन्त्र):
- “ॐ नमो भगवते रुद्राय॥” (Om Namo Bhagavate Rudraya).
- Recited for Lord Shiva’s blessings and fulfillment of desires.
- Shiva Namavali Mantras (शिव नामावली मन्त्र):
- Chanting various names of Shiva like “Shri Rudraya Namah,” “Shri Shankaraya Namah,” “Om Parvatipataye Namah,” “Om Namo Neelakanthaya Namah”.
- Simple Nepali Bhajans/Chants: Devotional songs in local languages, including Nepali, are also part of worship, enhancing the devotional atmosphere. Examples: “Jai Shiva Shankar Shambhu,” “Man Mero Mandir Shiva Mero Puja”.
Key Offerings in Somvar Shiva Puja and Their Symbolism
| Offering (Nepali/English) | Symbolic Meaning | Puranic/Scriptural Basis (Key Idea + Source IDs) |
|---|---|---|
| Bel Patra | Trinity, Shiva’s three eyes, Trishula, three Gunas, AUM; purity, surrender | Originating from Parvati’s sweat (Skanda Purana), Very dear to Shiva (Shiva Purana) |
| Dhatura | Surrender of ego, negativity, toxins; purification | Emerged from Shiva’s chest (Vamana Purana); Pacifies the poison effect |
| Milk | Purity, nourishment, compassion, sattvic nature | Cooled Shiva during Samudra Manthan; Importance of Abhishekam in Agamas |
| Water/Ganga Jal | Purity, clarity, and flow of divine energy | Basic purification element; Ganga Jal, especially sacred |
| White Flowers | Purity, reverence, dear to Shiva | Shiva’s fondness |
| Chandan (Sandalwood) | Coolness, purity, spiritual growth, inner peace | Applied to Lingam, calming effect |
| Panchamrit | Mixture of five nectars (milk, curd, honey, ghee, sugar); each with a specific meaning | Purity, nourishment, prosperity, sweetness, strength, bliss |
The Spiritual Philosophy of Somvar Vrat (Monday Fast)
The Somvar Vrat (Monday fast) is not merely an act of abstaining from food but a profound spiritual discipline designed to purify the devotee physically, mentally, and spiritually, bringing them closer to the Divine. It functions as a holistic “spiritual technology,” where Upavasa (dwelling near the divine), dietary restrictions, mantra chanting, and specific offerings work in synergy for purification, discipline, and divine connection.
A. Upavasa – More Than Just Fasting
- The literal meaning of Upavasa is “Upa” (near) + “Vaasa” (to stay), signifying dwelling near the Divine/Supreme Soul/Nature.
- It is not just abstention from food but a commitment to spiritual goals, harmonizing the body, mind, and soul for spiritual exploration.
- The Varaha Upanishad clarifies that the purpose of Upavasa is to be near God, worship God, and imbibe divine virtues, not to torture the body.
B. Cultivating Self-Discipline, Purification, and Devotion
- Somvar Vrat is a means to cultivate self-discipline and self-control (atma-samyam).
- It helps purify the mind and body, making one more receptive to divine energy and preparing for meditation. Avoiding certain foods and enjoyments is believed to cleanse the soul, allowing individuals to connect more deeply with their inner beings.
- It is a form of Tapasya (austerity/self-sacrifice) that can awaken latent spiritual powers and create favorable karma.
- The fast fosters devotion (bhakti), allowing devotees to set aside time for prayer, meditation, and introspection, thereby strengthening their connection with Lord Shiva.
C. Aligning with Cosmic Rhythms
- Monday fasting, linked to the Moon (Soma), which influences emotions and mental states, helps align individual energies with lunar and cosmic rhythms, enhancing inner growth.
- This practice aids in controlling physical impulses and developing self-mastery.
The emphasis on speaking truth, avoiding anger, and maintaining purity of thought during the Vrata highlights an inherent ethical discipline. This demonstrates that Hindu spiritual practices like Somvar Vrat are deeply intertwined with ethical living. The purification sought is not just ritualistic but also moral, suggesting that true divine connection and the fruits of the Vrata are contingent upon a foundation of ethical behavior.
Somvar Shiva Worship in the Nepali Cultural Landscape
In Nepal, the tradition of Monday Shiva worship is vibrant and culturally rich. While drawing from pan-Indian Puranic themes, Nepali practices exhibit a strong degree of localization, integrating local sacred sites, specific pilgrimage routes, and unique narrative traditions.
A. The Vibrancy of Saune Sombar and Bolbam Traditions
- Saune Sombar: Mondays in the month of Shravan (Saun) hold exceptional significance in Nepal.
- It’s believed that worshipping Shiva this month yields benefits equivalent to worshipping all deities.
- The legend of Parvati’s Shravan fast to attain Shiva is prominent, making it especially important for women, who fast for the well-being of their husbands, children, and family.
- Offering pure water to Shiva on Saune Sombar is considered highly meritorious.
- Astrologically, Monday is Shiva’s day, and Shravan’s connection to the Moon (Shiva’s adornment) enhances its auspiciousness.
- Bolbam Pilgrimage:
- Devotees, often dressed in yellow, undertake a barefoot pilgrimage, collecting holy water from sacred rivers (e.g., Sundarijal for Pashupatinath, Saptakoshi for Pindeshwar) and offering it to Shiva Lingams, chanting “Bolbam”.
- This tradition, while popular, is noted as not being extremely ancient in Nepal, but has gained significant traction.
- Major Shiva temples like Pashupatinath see massive crowds and special fairs.
B. Swasthani Brata Katha and Shiva-Parvati Devotion
- Overview: A month-long vrata (fasting and recitation) primarily observed by Nepali Hindus from Poush Shukla Purnima to Magh Shukla Purnima.
- Core Narratives: The katha narrates stories of various gods, with a significant focus on Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati (and Sati Devi). It includes Parvati’s devotion and penance to win Shiva as her husband.
- Relevance to Somvar/Shiva Worship: While the Swasthani Vrata itself is not exclusively a Monday vrata, its deep engagement with the lore of Shiva and Parvati, including Parvati’s rigorous austerities to attain Shiva, resonates strongly with the devotional spirit of Somvar Vrats (like Solah Somvar, also undertaken by Parvati). The Swasthani story often reinforces the power of devotion to Shiva and Swasthani (a form of the Goddess). The conclusion of the Swasthani festival involves worshipping a Shivling. Direct evidence of specific Monday observances within the Swasthani Brata Katha itself is limited; the connection is more thematic.
- The emphasis on “reciting” Swasthani Brata Katha and the vibrant, participatory nature of Bolbam suggest the strong influence of oral and performative elements in sustaining and propagating these Shiva-centric traditions in Nepal. These practices ensure intergenerational transmission of religious narratives and values.
C. Reverence at Major Shiva Shrines in Nepal on Mondays
- Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu is a prime destination, especially on Saune Sombar, with Puranic glorification.
- Other significant Shiva temples attracting large crowds on Mondays/Saune Sombar include Kumbheshwar, Santaneshwar, Halesi Mahadev, Koteshwar, Jaleshwar, Galeshwar, Pindeshwar, etc..
- The general practice of visiting Shiva temples on Mondays is a strong tradition.
D. Unique Nepali Folk Beliefs or Practices
The available information primarily highlights Saune Sombar and Bolbam as particularly vibrant in Nepal. While Bolbam exists in India, its specific expression and routes in Nepal (e.g., Sundarijal to Pashupatinath) are local. The Swasthani Brata Katha is a distinct Nepali tradition with deep roots. General puja practices in Nepali homes would apply to Somvar Shiva puja as well, but specific, unique Somvar-folk elements not found elsewhere are not explicitly detailed in the provided sources. Overall, these practices demonstrate the dynamic nature of Hindu traditions, where core tenets are preserved while allowing for regional adaptations that make the practices deeply meaningful to the local populace.
Conclusion
The designation of Monday as a special day for the worship of Lord Shiva is rooted in a confluence of profound reasons. Etymologically, “Somvar” is the day of “Soma” (the Moon), a celestial body intrinsically linked to Shiva, who wears it as Chandrashekhara and is worshipped as Somnath, the Moon’s protector. The subtle resonance of the sacred “Om” within “Somvar” further connects the day to Shiva’s essence as Omkar Swaroopa.
Puranic narratives, including Chandra Dev’s Monday penance for redemption, Goddess Parvati’s dedicated Solah Somvar Vrat to win Shiva, and the association of Shravan Somvar with the Samudra Manthan episode, solidify this day’s sacredness. Astrologically, the Moon’s influence on the human mind and emotions makes Monday worship a potent time for seeking mental peace and balance. Spiritually, this practice aligns individual energies with cosmic rhythms, facilitates karmic purification, and fosters inner growth.
The worship of Lord Shiva on Mondays, whether through simple prayers, elaborate rituals, or dedicated fasts, remains an enduring and accessible path for devotees. It offers a way to seek inner peace, mental clarity, material well-being, spiritual advancement, and ultimately, Lord Shiva’s divine grace and liberation. As scriptures and traditions consistently affirm, sincere devotion (Bhakti) is paramount, and observing these practices with faith can lead to the fulfillment of righteous desires and a harmonious life.
This article has been written by Rupesh Karna for the “Mero Nepal” mobile app.
Works cited
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