The Magic Of Shiv Chalisa Connecting With Lord Shiva
1. Shiv Chalisa Introduction
The Shiv Chalisa is a revered hymn in Hinduism, dedicated to Lord Shiva, the destroyer and transformer within the Trimurti. Comprising forty verses, it is a powerful devotional composition that praises the various aspects and deeds of Lord Shiva. Chanting the Shiv Chalisa is believed to bring spiritual peace, strength, and divine blessings to devotees.
दोहा
जय गणेश गिरिजा सुवन, मंगल मूरति रूप।
जय उमा पति महादेव, अभय वरद सुर भूप॥
Meaning: Victory to Lord Ganesha, the son of Goddess Parvati, who is the embodiment of auspiciousness. Victory to Lord Shiva, the consort of Uma (Parvati), the fearless giver of boons and king of gods.
चौपाई
जय गिरिजा पति दीन दयाला। सदा करत सन्तन प्रतिपाला॥
Meaning: Hail to the consort of Girija (Parvati), the compassionate one who always protects the saints.
भाल चन्द्रमा सोहत नीके। कानन कुण्डल नागफनी के॥
Meaning: The moon looks beautiful on your forehead. You wear earrings made of snakes.
अंग गौर शिर गंग बहाए। मुण्डमाल तन क्षार लगाए॥
Meaning: Your body is fair, and the Ganges flows from your hair. You wear a garland of skulls and cover your body with ashes.
वस्त्र खाल बाघम्बर सोहै। छवि को देख नाग मुनि मोहै॥
Meaning: You are adorned with a tiger skin. Seeing your appearance, even snakes and sages are enchanted.
मैना मातु की ह्वै दुहाई। नागराज को दीन्हि बनाई॥
Meaning: When Mother Maina (Parvati’s mother) prayed, you accepted the snake as your ornament.
विद्याधर राजा सुर मुनि सब। करहिं सदा शिवजी का जस॥
Meaning: The celestial beings, kings, gods, and sages always sing the praises of Lord Shiva.
दिया मंत्र रावण जब हीं। पूजे शंकर होइ सुख लहीं॥
Meaning: When Ravana received the mantra and worshipped Shankar (Shiva), he attained happiness.
पुत्र कार्तिक सैन्य चलाए। सिहासन बैठे तारक धाए॥
Meaning: Your son Kartikeya leads the army and sits on the throne, defeating the demon Tarakasura.
हरचरन पादुकासन दीन्हा। सुंदर चित्र विचित्र बनाई॥
Meaning: You gave the sacred sandals of Lord Shiva’s feet, creating a beautiful and extraordinary image.
संकट तें न होय भलि यारी। भक्त वश ह्वै करते सुखकारी॥
Meaning: In times of trouble, there is no better friend. Under the influence of your devotees, you become the giver of happiness.
जटा मुकुट गंगहि सम्हारी। कर त्रिशूल सोभा अति भारी॥
Meaning: Your hair is like a crown holding the Ganges. The trident in your hand looks very majestic.
अर्थ जहर पीया कृपा करके। अमृत के आधा लहय ताकि॥
Meaning: You compassionately drank the poison, keeping half the nectar for the gods.
देवन अर्पित करि कर जोड़ी। नामक शंकर करे लुभाई॥
Meaning: The gods offer their prayers with folded hands, and your name, Shankar, captivates all.
पार्वतीपति जो कोई ध्यावै। ऋद्धिसिद्धि निश्चय ही पावै॥
Meaning: Whoever meditates on Parvati’s consort, Shiva, surely attains prosperity and success.
दोहा
नित्य ध्यान जो ध्यान करे, नित्य करे चालीसा।
संतजन शिव कृपा कर, पूरी करे मन की इच्छा॥
Meaning: Whoever regularly meditates on Shiva and recites the Chalisa, with Shiva’s grace, all their wishes are fulfilled.
2. Importance of Shiv Chalisa
The Shiv Chalisa holds immense spiritual significance for devotees. It is a medium through which they express their reverence and devotion to Lord Shiva. Regular recitation of the Shiv Chalisa is said to invoke the blessings of Lord Shiva, providing protection, prosperity, and relief from life’s challenges. It is also believed to help in overcoming fears, ailments, and obstacles, fostering a sense of inner peace and well-being.
3. Structure of Shiv Chalisa
The Shiv Chalisa is traditionally composed of an introductory and concluding couplet (“Dohas”) and forty quatrains (“Chaupais”). The hymn starts with an invocation to Lord Ganesha and Goddess Parvati, setting a devotional tone. This is followed by detailed praises of Lord Shiva’s various forms, attributes, and his benevolent deeds. The language of the Shiv Chalisa is simple yet profound, making it accessible to devotees of all ages.
4. Benefits of Reciting Shiv Chalisa
1. *Spiritual Peace:* Reciting the Shiv Chalisa calms the mind and aids in focusing during meditation.
2. *Positive Energy:* The hymn infuses positive energy, promoting mental and physical well-being.
3. *Relief from Troubles:* Regular recitation helps in alleviating life’s troubles and difficulties.
4. *Increased Devotion:* The Shiv Chalisa strengthens the devotee’s faith and devotion towards Lord Shiva.
5. *Protection:* Chanting the Shiv Chalisa invokes Lord Shiva’s protection and blessings.
5. How to Recite Shiv Chalisa
There are no strict rules for reciting the Shiv Chalisa. It can be chanted anytime, anywhere. However, early morning and evening times are considered most auspicious. Sitting in front of a Shivling, focusing on Lord Shiva, and lighting a lamp or incense can enhance the experience. Reciting with sincerity and devotion is key to gaining the benefits of this hymn.
6. Conclusion
The Shiv Chalisa is more than just a hymn; it is a spiritual tool that connects devotees to Lord Shiva’s divine energy. Regular recitation not only brings spiritual and material benefits but also fosters a deep sense of peace and fulfillment. It serves as a reminder of Lord Shiva’s omnipresence, compassion, and protective nature. By incorporating the Shiv Chalisa into daily practice, devotees can experience the profound blessings and transformative power of Lord Shiva in their lives.
