Private worship of Lingam

Private worship of Lingam

Linga puja is very useful in striking a communion with Lord Shiv. This must be done after taking bath in the morning in a quiet, secluded room.

Mind must be calm, free from worldly attachments.Several upakaras (offerings) are used to make the puja successful.  Upakaras are divided into eight, sixteen, thirtytwo, and forty eight. This depends on the time available. Generally eight upakarasa are adopted for convenience sake which is equally good. This called asthvida  lingarchana(अष्टविद लिंगारचना)

At times all items required to do the puja are not available. Under such circumstances the lingam must be thoroughly washed with water apply vibhuti on it and join your mind with folded hands with the God through the lingam.

Generally, sandalwood paste is besmeared on the lingam to keep it ‘cool’. Lord Shiv is considered to be inflammable and needs to pacified throughout the puja. Sandalwood has a cooling effect.