Lingodbhava is a significant event in Hindu mythology that marks the emergence of Lord Shiva as the supreme god. This phenomenon is “The Emergence of the Linga,” and it is a representation of the cosmic energy that pervades the universe.
The Churning of Ocean and Emergence of Linga – Lingodbhava
According to Hindu mythology, once upon a time, the gods and demons decided to churn the cosmic ocean to obtain the elixir of immortality. During the process, many things emerged from the ocean including the goddess of wealth. The moon, and a mysterious pillar of light also appears in this process. The gods decide to seek the help of Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu to identify this pillar of cosmic energy.
Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu went to investigate the pillar of light and found that it was emanating from a fiery linga. They were amazed by the sight and decided to investigate further. Lord Brahma decided to fly up to find the top of the linga and Lord Vishnu decided to delve down to find the bottom of the linga.
After many years, Lord Brahma returns and claims to have found the top of the linga, but Lord Vishnu returned empty-handed and admitted that he could not find the bottom of the linga.
Lord Shiva, who was hidden within the linga, emerged from it and declared himself to be the supreme god, the creator, and the destroyer of the universe.
Significance of Lingodbhava
The Lingodbhava story is a significant event in Hindu mythology that represents the emergence of Lord Shiva as the supreme god. The linga, also known as the cosmic pillar, is said to be a representation of the cosmic energy that pervades the universe and is considered to be the source of all energy. Lord Shiva is often depicted as being in a meditative state, seated on top of the linga, and this is said to be his formless form, as the linga represents the formless nature of the universe.
The event of Lingodbhava is seen as a symbol of the oneness of the universe. It represents the idea that all things in the universe are connected and that the universe is one whole entity.
Festivals related to Lord Shiva – Mahashivaratri
In Hinduism, Lingodbhava is also celebrated as a festival called Maha Shivaratri, which is celebrated annually on the 13th night or 14th day of the new moon in the Hindu month of Phalguna. On this day, devotees of Lord Shiva fast and offer prayers to Lord Shiva. It is believed that by doing so they will receive blessings from Lord Shiva and attain liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
Lingodbhava – Lord Shiva as a creator of universe
Thus, Lingodbhava is a significant event in Hindu mythology that marks the emergence of Lord Shiva as the supreme god. It represents the unity of the universe and the idea that all things are connected. The linga, a symbol of the cosmic energy that pervades the universe, is the source of all energy. This story also serves as a reminder that Lord Shiva is not just the destroyer but also the creator and the preserver of the universe. The festival of Maha Shivaratri, is an important occasion for the devotees of Lord Shiva to offer prayers and seek blessings.