BAVINA SOOKDEO
Maha Shivratri will be celebrated by the Hindu community on March 8-9.
Pundit Satyanand Mahabir Dubey, spiritual leader of the Tryambakeshwar Mahadev Mandir, Chaguanas said that Shivratri, literally translating to the "Night of Lord Shiva," holds profound spiritual meaning for devotees.
This sacred night falls on the 14th day of the dark fortnight in the month of Phalgun (February/March), marking the manifestation of Lord Shiva as the Jyotir Lingam (column of light).
"The night of Shiva begins at sunset on the day of Shivratri and ends with the sunrise of the next morning," said Mahabir Dubey.
Shivratri will start at 6.16 pm on March 8 and end 6.16 am on March 9.
Dubey said that Lord Shiva is one of the manifestations of the Hindu Trinity (Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva), embodying the role of the destroyer or rejuvenator.
"Shiva is seen as one who destroys sin or that which obstructs spiritual growth," he clarified, emphasising the transformative aspect of Shiva's role in removing impediments to spiritual evolution.
During this time, Lord Shiva's relevance becomes paramount as devotees engage in introspection and spiritual purification.
[caption id="attachment_1068494" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Hindus will celebrate Shivratri on March 8-9. The festival celebrated annually in February or March is in honour of Lord Shiva. -[/caption]
Lord Shiva is frequently seen seated in a meditative position. "Sitting in a meditative position represents introspection," said Mahabir Dubey, emphasising the importance of self-reflection and the pursuit of positive transformation through chanting divine names and cultivating positive thoughts.
Furthermore, Lord Shiva symbolises inclusiveness and acceptance without conformity, reflecting the principle of Sanatan Dharma, a way of life rooted in unconditional acceptance and love. "Through Shiva, everything will be purified and brought back to its natural state."
According to Mahabir Dubey, Lord Shiva’s symbolism is as follows:
The maha yogi: Lord Shiva is often depicted in minimalist surroundings, emphasizing his status as a maha yogi, detached from worldly attachments. Lord Shiva's meditative depiction, abstaining from earthly pleasures, teaches the importance of focusing on spiritual pursuits and being prepared for the inevitability of death.
[caption id="attachment_1068493" align="alignnone" width="750"] Pundit Satyanand Mahabir Dubey -[/caption]
The cobra: The cobra coiled around Lord Shiva’s neck in its striking pose may evoke fear, but it symbolises his dominion over the most perilous creatures. From a philosophical standpoint, the snake represent
s kal (time), ever present and hovering over humanity.
The linga: Representing the seed of the universe, the linga signifies Shiva's creative power and role in creation, according to Hindu belief.
His hair: Shiva's matted locks, from which flows the sacred river Ganga, symbolise purity and the power to cleanse sins for those who seek his grace.
The moon: Adorning his hair, the two-day-
