Sawan, which begins on July 22, is a holy time for worshipping Lord Shiva and gives special blessings to his followers. This month is highly special to Lord Shiva and is observed with a variety of rites and activities, starting with Pratipada of Krishna Paksha and ending with Ashadh Purnima. This fortunate time is observed by devotees as Sawan Monday Fast, Mangal Gauri Vrat, and Shrivratri. Lord Shiva is the focus of the entire month, and Monday fasting is particularly fortunate. Sawan will have a Monday start and finish in 2024, emphasising its spiritual significance.
While Bel leaves are usually offered to Lord Shiva during worship, one can also offer a variety of other flowers and leaves on the Shivling that are seen to be fortunate. Offering these leaves is said to satisfy the devotees’ needs.
8 Leaves To Offer –
- Durva: Lord Shiva can accept Durva as an offering. Durva is comparable to Amrit (nectar) in Hinduism. Offering Durva is thought to extend the devotee’s life.
- Datura: You can present Lord Shiva with the fruit and leaves of Datura. Lord Shiva is said to have a fondness for Datura leaves. Therefore, you can offer Datura leaves if there isn’t any fruit available.
- Shami Tree: The Shiva Mahapurana makes reference to the Shami tree. It states that you can present Lord Shiva with Shami leaves while you are in worship.
- Apamarga: During Monday worship, you can present Lord Shiva with Apamarga leaves. It is thought that doing this benefits the devotee’s happiness and prosperity.
- Bhang: When worshipping Lord Shiva, bhang is offered to him. Offering Bhang leaves on the Shivling is another option.
- Aak: Lord Shiva is said to adore the blossoms and leaves of the Aak plant in Hindu mythology. You can present sets of seven, nine, eleven, or twenty-one Aak leaves to Lord Shiva during worship.
- Peepal: In Hinduism, the peepal tree has particular significance. You can give Lord Shiva peepal leaves on Somvati Amavasya rather than bel leaves.
- Bamboo: It’s also considered lucky to offer Lord Shiva some bamboo leaves. It is thought that doing this causes the devotee to become blessed with offspring.
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