Worshipping of Lord Shiva
Lord Shiva, often called the Destroyer and Transformer, is one of the most revered deities in Hinduism. His worship holds deep spiritual meaning for millions of devotees worldwide. Among all the days of the week, Monday—also known as Somvar—is considered the most auspicious for offering prayers to Lord Shiva. This is because the Moon (Som) is believed to be close to Shiva’s heart, and Monday is the day dedicated to the Moon.
Worshipping Lord Shiva every Monday is not just a ritual but a powerful spiritual discipline that helps devotees cleanse their minds and hearts. Many people observe the Somvar Vrat (Monday fast) to seek blessings, improve health, attract prosperity, and remove obstacles in life. Ancient texts and Puranas narrate countless stories of devotees whose sincere Monday worship transformed their lives.
The beauty of Shiva worship lies in its simplicity. Even a small act of devotion—like chanting Om Namah Shivaya or offering Bilva leaves—can bring immense spiritual benefits. Whether you’re performing elaborate rituals or offering heartfelt prayers at home, what truly matters is faith, purity, and intention. In the following sections, we’ll explore the step-by-step process to worship Lord Shiva every Monday, so you can connect deeply with His divine energy.
Why Worship Lord Shiva on Mondays?
Mondays, known as Somvar in Sanskrit, are dedicated to Lord Shiva across many Hindu traditions. The word “Som” refers to the Moon, and Shiva is called Somnath, the Lord of the Moon. Mythologically, it is believed that Lord Chandra (the Moon God) once lost his radiance due to a curse, and by worshipping Lord Shiva on Mondays, he regained his brilliance. Since then, devotees have observed Monday as the most sacred day for Shiva worship.
From a spiritual perspective, Monday symbolizes mental clarity, emotional balance, and devotion, aligning with the qualities Lord Shiva bestows upon his followers. Observing Monday fasting (Somvar Vrat) and performing puja rituals help devotees cleanse their mind, reduce ego, and cultivate inner peace. It’s believed that Lord Shiva grants boons quickly to those who worship Him with sincerity on this day.
Monday worship is especially recommended for those seeking peace in marriage, financial stability, and liberation from negative karma. Unmarried women perform rituals to find an ideal life partner, while married couples seek harmony and blessings for family well-being. This weekly practice isn’t just a tradition—it’s a spiritual reset that deepens one’s connection with Shiva and brings transformative results over time.
Preparing for Monday Worship
Before you begin your Monday Shiva Puja, it’s important to create a sacred environment and prepare yourself mentally and physically. This preparation not only purifies the surroundings but also helps you focus your intention.
Best Day and Time to Worship Lord Shiva
While every Monday is sacred, the Pradosh Kaal (just before sunset) is considered the most auspicious time to perform Shiva Puja. This period is believed to be when divine energies are strongest, making it ideal for offering prayers and performing abhishekam. Early mornings during the Brahma Muhurta (around 4:00–6:00 AM) are also powerful for meditation and chanting. Many devotees choose to perform simple morning rituals and a more elaborate puja in the evening.
If possible, consult a Panchang (Hindu calendar) to find exact muhurats (auspicious timings) specific to your location. While timing enhances the benefits, remember that faith and devotion matter most, so you can worship whenever you feel connected to Lord Shiva.
Purification Rituals Before Worship
Purity is central to Hindu worship. Start by bathing and wearing clean, preferably white or light-colored clothes, symbolizing simplicity and serenity. If you are observing a fast, avoid tamasic foods like onions, garlic, and processed items, and consume only satvik meals or fruits.
Before setting up the altar, clean the worship area thoroughly. Light incense to remove negative energies and create a calming atmosphere. Take a few moments to sit quietly, close your eyes, and center your mind. You may recite “Om Namah Shivaya” silently to align yourself with Lord Shiva’s energy.
Some devotees also sprinkle Ganga Jal (holy water) around the altar and over themselves to purify the space. This mindful preparation ensures your worship is performed with a clean body, a focused mind, and a pure heart—qualities that Lord Shiva loves most.
How to Worship Lord Shiva at Home
Worshipping Lord Shiva at home doesn’t require elaborate setups—it’s your faith, devotion, and purity that matter most. Still, following a proper method helps you connect more deeply and invites divine blessings. Let’s break down the home worship process into simple, practical steps.
Setting Up the Puja Altar
Begin by selecting a clean and quiet corner in your home, ideally facing east or north. If you have a Shiva Lingam, place it on a small copper or silver plate. If not, you may worship a framed photo or idol of Lord Shiva. Ensure the altar is elevated and not placed directly on the floor.
You can decorate the area with:
- A clean white or red cloth
- Fresh flowers (especially white lotus, jasmine)
- Diyas (oil lamps)
- Incense sticks or cones
- A small water container (preferably copper or silver)
- A bell and puja thali
This space becomes your spiritual center, where you invite Lord Shiva’s divine energy every Monday.
✅ Essential Puja Items Checklist
To perform a simple yet complete puja, keep the following items ready:
|
Item |
Significance |
|
Water, Milk, Curd, Ghee, Honey (Panchamrit) |
For abhishekam (ritual bathing) |
|
Bilva (Bel) Leaves |
Shiva’s favorite offering |
|
Sandalwood Paste |
Symbol of purity and cooling |
|
Incense and Camphor |
To purify the environment |
|
Diya (Lamp) |
Represents light and energy |
|
Rice, Flowers, Fruits |
Offerings of devotion |
|
Naivedya (Food Offering) |
Optional sweet dish or fruits |
|
Rudraksha (optional) |
Enhances spiritual focus |
Make sure the items are fresh and handled with clean hands.
Step-by-Step Puja Process
- Invoke Lord Shiva by chanting:
“Om Shri Ganeshaya Namah” and then “Om Namah Shivaya” to begin. - Abhishekam (Sacred Bathing) of Shiva Lingam using water, followed by milk, curd, honey, ghee, and sugar. Wash with clean water after each liquid.
- Wipe the Lingam gently and apply sandalwood paste.
- Offer Bilva leaves (in odd numbers, 3 or 5) along with flowers and rice.
- Light the incense sticks and diya, moving them in a circular motion while chanting.
- Chant “Om Namah Shivaya” 108 times using a Rudraksha mala.
- Perform Shiva Aarti, sing or play recorded versions like “Om Jai Shiv Omkara.”
- Offer Naivedya (fruit or sweet), then close the puja with folded hands and gratitude.
Special Mantras and Chants for Monday Worship
Chanting sacred mantras during Shiva puja is one of the most powerful ways to invoke Lord Shiva’s presence and divine blessings. Mantras create spiritual vibrations that cleanse the mind, uplift the soul, and help deepen your connection with the Supreme. On Mondays, chanting these mantras with a pure heart and steady focus can bring peace, prosperity, and spiritual growth.
1. Om Namah Shivaya
Mantra: ॐ नमः शिवाय
This is the most well-known and widely used mantra to worship Lord Shiva. Known as the Panchakshari Mantra, it means “I bow to Lord Shiva.” It’s simple yet profound and aligns your energy with divine consciousness.
2. Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra
Mantra:
ॐ त्र्यम्बकं यजामहे सुगन्धिं पुष्टिवर्धनम्।
उर्वारुकमिव बन्धनान् मृत्योर्मुक्षीय मामृतात्॥
3. Shiva Panchakshara Stotra
Mantra Series: Composed by Adi Shankaracharya, this hymn explains the deeper meaning of “Na-Ma-Shi-Va-Ya.”
Each verse praises Lord Shiva using these five syllables.
4. Rudra Ashtakam (Optional for Advanced Devotees)
A devotional hymn in praise of Rudra form of Shiva, often sung during major Shiva festivals. It can be chanted weekly or monthly if daily is difficult.
✅ Chanting Tips:
- Always sit facing East or North during chanting.
- Use a Rudraksha mala to count repetitions.
- Maintain mental purity and focus.
- Chant slowly, clearly, and from the heart.
- Don’t rush—feel every syllable as divine energy.
Special Mantras and Chants for Monday Worship
Fasting on Mondays, or Somvar Vrat, is a time-honored spiritual discipline observed by devotees of Lord Shiva. It is believed to purify the body, calm the mind, and bring the devotee closer to divine consciousness. Fasting, when combined with worship and mantra chanting, becomes a powerful spiritual practice that attracts Shiva’s blessings for health, harmony, and prosperity.
Fasting Rules and Methods
There are different ways to observe the Monday fast based on one’s health, lifestyle, and devotion level:
Type of Fast | Description |
Nirjala Vrat | Complete fast—no food or water till sunset. Practiced by advanced devotees. |
Phalahar Vrat | Only fruits, milk, water, and natural drinks are consumed. Most common type. |
Satvik Food Fast | A single meal after sunset, excluding onions, garlic, grains, and heavy spices. Ideal for beginners. |
Guidelines for Fasting:
- Wake up early, bathe, and wear clean clothes.
- Avoid negative thoughts, anger, or gossip throughout the day.
- Engage in mantra chanting and Shiva puja.
- Break the fast after sunset by offering naivedya to Lord Shiva.
- Consume simple satvik food or fruits.
Vrat Katha and Its Importance
Listening to or reading the Somvar Vrat Katha is an integral part of the ritual. The story tells of a poor Brahmin couple whose sincere fasting and prayers to Lord Shiva brought them wealth, happiness, and liberation.
This tale is symbolic of the power of devotion and the transformative blessings of Lord Shiva.
How to do it:
- Read or listen to the Somvar Vrat Katha after your puja.
- Reflect on its moral: Shiva responds to pure devotion, regardless of status or means.
- You can find audio versions online or in Shiva Puja books.
Incorporating fasting into your Monday worship magnifies its effects. It’s a beautiful way to purify the body, steady the mind, and align with higher consciousness.
Benefits of Worshipping Lord Shiva Every Monday
Worshipping Lord Shiva every Monday is not just a religious practice—it is a spiritually transformative experience. Devotees across generations have shared how consistent Monday worship has helped them overcome personal struggles, attract prosperity, and attain inner peace. The beauty of Lord Shiva’s grace is that He responds not to status or wealth, but to devotion and sincerity.
1. Mental Peace and Emotional Stability
Chanting Shiva mantras and performing abhishekam on Mondays brings a deep sense of calm and clarity. Shiva, also known as Adiyogi (the first yogi), represents inner stillness. Regular puja helps reduce stress, anxiety, and overthinking by balancing your energies. It enhances focus, patience, and self-awareness.
2. Attracting Wealth and Prosperity
Lord Shiva is also known as Ashutosh, the easily-pleased one. By offering sincere prayers and fasting on Mondays, many believe their financial problems start to resolve, and new opportunities open up. Chanting the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra is especially effective for removing career and business obstacles.
Those looking for job stability, promotions, or financial gains often observe the Solah Somvar Vrat to seek divine intervention from Lord Shiva.
3. Harmony in Relationships and Marital Bliss
It is a popular belief that unmarried women fasting on Mondays are blessed with ideal life partners. Couples who worship together often experience greater understanding, peace, and emotional bonding in their relationships.
Performing Monday puja as a family ritual can also bring overall positivity and emotional stability in the home.
4. Protection from Negative Influences
Lord Shiva is called Bholenath—the innocent Lord who also destroys evil. Regular Monday worship is said to protect devotees from:
- Negative energy or spiritual attacks
- Misfortune and untimely accidents
- Bad dreams and restless sleep
Mantras like Om Namah Shivaya create a protective shield around the devotee, improving both physical and spiritual well-being.
5. Spiritual Growth and Liberation (Moksha)
Consistent Shiva devotion brings you closer to moksha—the ultimate freedom from rebirth. Mondays become not just a ritual but a weekly reminder of your higher self. Meditating on Shiva’s formless energy helps dissolve ego, attachment, and illusion.
This is why yogis, saints, and seekers revere Shiva as the source of spiritual awakening and divine wisdom.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Shiva Worship
Even with the best intentions, devotees sometimes unknowingly make mistakes during their Monday Shiva worship. Understanding what to avoid ensures your rituals remain pure, effective, and in line with tradition. Below are the most important points to keep in mind:
1. Offering Tulsi Leaves
One of the most frequent mistakes is offering Tulsi (holy basil) leaves to Lord Shiva. According to the Puranas, Tulsi is dear to Lord Vishnu but not acceptable to Shiva, as Tulsi cursed Shiva due to a past legend. Instead, always offer Bilva (Bel) leaves, which are considered highly sacred to Him.
2. Using Kumkum (Vermilion) on the Shiva Lingam
Kumkum is typically offered to Goddess Parvati but should not be applied to the Shiva Lingam. For Shiva, you should use:
- Bhasma (sacred ash)
- Chandan (sandalwood paste)
- Uncooked rice grains
Avoid mixing items meant for other deities into Shiva’s offerings.
3. Neglecting Cleanliness and Mental Purity
Rushing through puja without bathing or cleaning the altar shows a lack of reverence. Always:
- Bathe before starting rituals
- Wear clean clothes
- Purify the altar area
- Sit with a calm and focused mind
If your thoughts are scattered or negative, pause and center yourself by chanting Om Namah Shivaya before continuing.
4. Pouring Unfiltered Tap Water
While you can use tap water in emergencies, traditional worship recommends filtered, clean water or Ganga Jal for abhishekam. Avoid using hot water or unclean containers.
5. Overlooking the Direction and Placement
Many forget that the Shiva Lingam or idol should face North or East, and you should sit facing the same direction while praying. The altar must not be placed near bathrooms or directly on the floor without a base.
Etiquette During Worship
Here are a few more tips:
- Do not touch the Shiva Lingam during menstrual cycles.
- Never offer stale flowers or leftover food.
- Don’t leave the diya unattended.
- Avoid breaking Bilva leaves—offer them whole.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you honor Lord Shiva with cleanliness, devotion, and respect, ensuring your worship brings positive transformation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to worship Lord Shiva on Monday?
The most auspicious time is Pradosh Kaal, which falls about 1.5 hours before and after sunset. If you prefer mornings, Brahma Muhurta (4:00–6:00 AM) is ideal for meditation and chanting. However, you can worship at any time with a sincere heart.
Can I worship Lord Shiva without a Shiva Lingam?
Yes. If you don’t have a Lingam, you can worship a framed photo or idol of Lord Shiva. What matters most is your faith, devotion, and intention, not the form of the representation.
How to worship Lord Shiva for wealth and prosperity?
For wealth, perform abhishekam with milk, honey, and ghee, and chant the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra or “Om Namah Shivaya” 108 times every Monday. Observe the Somvar Vrat for 16 consecutive Mondays for faster results.
Is there a specific dress code for Monday Shiva puja?
While there’s no strict dress code, it is recommended to wear clean white, light blue, or saffron clothes, symbolizing purity and peace. Avoid black attire during worship.
What are the benefits of chanting Om Namah Shivaya?
Chanting Om Namah Shivaya helps purify the mind, dissolve ego, reduce stress, and attract spiritual and material blessings. Regular chanting creates a protective energy around you and brings a deep sense of inner peace.