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Time of India

How many Jyotirlingas are there in India? Full list & spiritual meaning

Lord Shiva's Jyotirlingas: India is known as a land of deep spiritual roots, where sacred traditions and ancient temples continue to attract millions of devotees. Among these, are Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva hold a very special place in Hinduism. But how many Jyotirlingas are there exactly? And what is their meaning? Let's explore the Jyotirlingas' significance, their location & timings, and why they are so important for devotees of Lord Shiva. What Are Jyotirlingas? The word Jyotirlinga comes from two Sanskrit words — Jyoti, meaning light, and Linga, meaning a symbol of Lord Shiva. So, Jyotirlinga means the radiant symbol of Lord Shiva. These are not just simple shrines; each of the 12 Jyotirlingas is believed to represent an infinite, glowing form of Lord Shiva himself. Significance of the 12 Jyotirlingas The Jyotirlingas are believed to be places where Lord Shiva appeared in a fiery pillar of light. Each temple highlights a unique aspect of Shiva's powers and teachings — from inner peace and strength to spiritual enlightenment. Visiting these shrines is seen as a way to gain divine blessings and cleanse the soul. Many people take part in the Dwadash Jyotirlinga Yatra, a pilgrimage to all 12 sacred temples, hoping to attain moksha (spiritual liberation). The Story Behind the Jyotirlingas According to the Shiva Purana, once there was a debate between god Brahma (the creator) and god Vishnu (the preserver) about who was greater. To settle it, Lord Shiva appeared as a never-ending pillar of light – the Jyotirlinga. Vishnu humbly accepted that he couldn't find the end, while Brahma lied that he had. Shiva, angered by Brahma's lie, cursed him never to be worshipped. This story highlights Lord Shiva's supreme form and the origin of Jyotirlingas. List of the 12 Jyotirlingas and Their Importance Here are the 12 Jyotirlingas spread across India, each with its own story and religious importance: 1. Somnath Jyotirlinga – Gujarat Location: Prabhas Patan, Gir Somnath District Timing: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM Known as the first among the 12 Jyotirlingas, Somnath has been rebuilt many times, standing as a symbol of devotion and resilience. 2. Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga – Andhra Pradesh Location: Srisailam Timing: 4:30 AM to 10:00 PM Set on a hilltop, this temple represents both a Jyotirlinga and a Shakti Peetha, making it spiritually powerful. 3. Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga – Madhya Pradesh Location: Ujjain Timing: 4:00 AM to 11:00 PM It's the only Swayambhu Jyotirlinga (self-manifested) and is also the only one facing south. 4. Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga – Madhya Pradesh Location: Mandhata Island, Narmada River Timing: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM Located on a sacred island, this shrine is shaped like the sacred symbol 'Om'. 5. Kedarnath Jyotirlinga – Uttarakhand Location: Garhwal Himalayas Timing: 4:00 AM to 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, Kedarnath is one of the most remote and spiritually intense Jyotirlingas. 6. Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga – Maharashtra Location: Pune District Timing: 4:30 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM Situated in a lush forest known as Dakini Vana, this temple is linked to the origin of River Bhima. 7. Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga – Uttar Pradesh Location: Varanasi Timing: 3:00 AM to 11:00 PM Located in the holiest city of Varanasi, it is one of the most visited temples and a core centre of Hindu spirituality. 8. Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga – Maharashtra Location: Nashik District Timing: 5:30 AM to 9:00 PM The temple is closely connected to the origin of the Godavari River and holds special spiritual value. 9. Baidyanath Jyotirlinga – Jharkhand Location: Deoghar Timing: 4:00 AM to 3:30 PM and 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM Also known as Baba Dham, this temple is believed to be where Ravana offered his ten heads to Shiva. 10. Nageshwar Jyotirlinga – Gujarat Location: Near Dwarka Timing: 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM It is believed to protect devotees from evil and poison, reflecting Shiva's role as a saviour. 11. Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga – Tamil Nadu Location: Pamban Island Timing: 5:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM According to legend, this is where Lord Rama worshipped Shiva before his journey to Lanka. 12. Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga – Maharashtra Location: Ellora, near Aurangabad Timing: 5.30 AM to 9.30 PM The last of the 12 Jyotirlingas, this temple is located close to the famous Ellora Caves and holds great cultural value. Why Are Jyotirlingas Worshipped? Devotees believe that visiting even one Jyotirlinga can help in removing sins and achieving peace. Each shrine gives insight into Shiva's teachings and his love for devotees. The Jyotirlingas are not only places of worship but also architectural and historical wonders. Preserving India's Spiritual Heritage Efforts are being made to maintain and restore these ancient temples, ensuring that the next generations can continue to experience the divine energy and spiritual richness they offer. The 12 Jyotirlingas continue to light up the spiritual journey of millions and remind us of Lord Shiva's eternal presence. The Jyotirlingas are more than just temples – they are a spiritual path that connects devotees to the endless power of Lord Shiva. Whether you visit one or all of them, the experience leaves a lifelong impact. With deep roots in India's culture and faith, these shrines truly reflect the Jyotirlinga's significance in Hinduism. For more informative articles on historical and upcoming events from around the world, please visit Indiatimes Events.