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Time of India
16-07-2025
- General
- 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.
Time of India
16-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Time of India
Which Jyotirlinga Resonates with Each Zodiac Sign?
Even the cosmos needs a spiritual recharge! Here's a Jyotirlinga pilgrimage tailored to each zodiac sign's unique cosmic fingerprint: Aries – Kedarnath Jyotirlinga : Fearless and adventurous Aries, Kedarnath calls to your mountain-conquering spirit. Perched high in the Himalayas, it's a trekker's temple for the warrior soul, daring you to ascend. Taurus – Somnath Jyotirlinga : Sensual Taurus, indulge in the history, beauty, and seaside serenity of Somnath. Ancient and powerful, it offers a cosmic spa day for your grounded soul. Gemini – Nageshwar Jyotirlinga : Curious Gemini, engage your intellect at Nageshwar, the protector of the universe. This Jyotirlinga resonates with thinkers and question-askers, a spicy blend of serpent wisdom and twin energy. Cancer – Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga : Nurturing Cancer, find your spiritual home at Mallikarjuna, where Shiva and Parvati reside in divine domesticity. It's a sanctuary of family and emotional depth. Leo – Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga : Dramatic Leo, only Mahakaleshwar's powerful presence matches your own. With its underground sanctum and midnight aarti, it's a theatrical spectacle of timelessness. Virgo – Baidyanath Jyotirlinga: Healing Virgo, connect with the cosmic physician at Baidyanath. Organized and pure, it's a spiritual cleanse for even the most chaotic souls. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Villas For Sale in Dubai Might Surprise You Villas In Dubai | Search Ads Get Rates Undo Libra – Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga: Harmonious Libra, find your aesthetic spirituality at Omkareshwar, shaped like the sacred 'Om'. It's a temple that perfectly balances beauty and divinity. Scorpio – Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga: Intense Scorpio, delve into the mysterious depths of Bhimashankar, hidden deep within the forest. This Jyotirlinga is a sacred secret, a spiritual plot twist. Sagittarius – Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga: Adventurous Sagittarius, embark on a spiritual journey to Rameshwaram. With its ocean breeze and divine blessings, it's a pilgrimage passport stamp for the seeker. Capricorn – Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga: Disciplined Capricorn, seek karma cleansing at Trimbakeshwar, the source of the sacred Godavari. Its depth and tradition resonate with your grounded soul. Aquarius – Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga: Unconventional Aquarius, discover the underrated soul of Grishneshwar near Ellora. This quiet Jyotirlinga offers authentic spirituality for the thoughtful worshipper. Pisces – Vaidyanath (Jharkhand) / Tryambakeshwar crossover: Dreamy Pisces, let your poetic heart be moved by the flowing energy of both Vaidyanath and Tryambakeshwar. Healing, timeless, and deeply connected to the element of water Discover everything about astrology at the Times of India , including daily horoscopes for Aries , Taurus , Gemini , Cancer , Leo , Virgo , Libra , Scorpio , Sagittarius , Capricorn , Aquarius , and Pisces .
