Occurrence:
Shivaratri occurs on the Chaturdashi of Krishna Paksha every month. The Shivaratri of Magha/Phalguna Maasa is the most auspicious of all Shivaratri and is celebrated as Maha Shivaratri (The great night of Shiva).
Shivalinga:
Shiva manifested as a Shiva Linga (Agni Stambha) for the 1st time on the night of Maha Shivaratri. This Shiva Linga was 1st worshipped by none other than Sri Brahma and Sri Vishnu.
Shiva Shakti:
Maha Shivaratri marks the divine convergence of Shiva and Shakti Devi, the day Shiva and Goddess Parvati got married.
Nataraja:
Shiva performs Ananda Tandava on this night. Thus, Shiva is also worshipped as Nataraja Swamy.
Significance:
Observing Shivratri is the easiest way to win the blessings and grace of Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
Devotees who want to observe Masika Shivaratri Vrata, start from Maha Shivaratri and continue it for a year. Devi Saraswati, Goddess Lakshmi, Goddess Parvati, Gayatri Devi, Savitri Devi, Indrani, Mata Sita and Rati observed all Masika Shivaratri.
Shiva Tattva:
Shiva Tattva is the very energy on which the entire creation rests. This Shiva Tattva pervades the entire universe and is present within every being.
Usually, the Shiva Tattva is 10 inches above the ground. But on Maha Shivaratri, it comes in contact with the Earth.
On Shivaratri, the northern hemisphere of the planet is positioned in such a way that there is a natural upsurge of energy in us.
Jaagarana:
This is why on Maha Shivaratri, by keeping our spine vertical, performing Dhyana, Puja and Japa throughout the day and night, we allow this natural upsurge of Shiva Tattva in us. Nature pushes us toward our spiritual peak.
The sun and moon are in a particular alignment, which helps to elevate the mind. Such days, like Mahashivaratri are conducive for Sadhana and Dhyana., which is 100 times more effective.
Aashirvaada:
By the grace of Shiva and Parvati, we can accomplish impossible and difficult tasks. All obstacles are overcome. Any past Paapa and negativities are removed. We are blessed with good health, success, calmness, bliss, peace and protection from any negative forces. And after death, Shivaloka is obtained.
Unmarried women are blessed with the groom of their choice. Married couples are blessed with a good marital life, long life and good health.
Samarpana:
The best way to celebrate Shivaratri is to do Dhyana and surrender to Shiva. This gives us deep peace, solace, serenity, benevolence and oneness with Shiva.
Each Shivaratri is about taking refuge in Parameshwara, the Absolute Truth. It is the time to understand, celebrate, meditate and rest in the Shiva Tattva around and within us.
