Shivratri Spcl: Significance Of Lord Shiva's Ornaments

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You have to admit that Lord Shiva is one of the most uniquely dressed Gods of our Hindu mythology. The uniqueness of His ornaments is what makes Him all the more interesting to us.

If you are familiar with the image of Lord Shiva then the things which come to your mind is the serpent around His neck, the tiger skin on His body, matted hair, Vibhuti or holy ash on His forehead, the waning moon and many more things. Have you ever wondered what is the significance of Lord Shiva's ornaments? Why does He wear such unique ornaments to adorn Himself?

ALSO READ: Why Lord Shiva Drinks Bhang?

If these questions have ever occurred to you, then it is the time to find answers. This Shivratri, we will reveal to you the secrets of Lord Shiva. So, let us find out about the significance of Lord Shiva's ornaments.

Snake

The snake in Lord Shiva's neck is the symbol of the 'Jiva' or the individual soul which rests upon Him. It represents that each living being is dependent on the Supreme God for his/her well being. Also we all fear snakes but Lord Shiva is free from all sorts of emotions and so the fear does not bother Him and he keeps the snake coiled around His neck.

Bhasma Or Vibhuti

You may have noticed that Lord Shiva always smears Himself with the holy ashes. The bhasma or the vibhuti represents the end of human life. Lord Shiva smears it over His body which is to remind the mankind that one must never forget his end. Anything born on Earth has to go back to ashes.

Matted Hair

Shiva's matted hair or 'jata' is the symbol that He is the master of wind or 'Vayu' which is essential for the survival of all living beings.

Rudraksha

Lord Shiva also wears Rudraksha necklace and bracelets. The necklace of the Lord has 108 beads which represents the elemts used in the creation of the Universe. It symbolises that Lord Shiva is the master of all elements.

Tiger Skin

Tiger skin symbolises power or Shakti. Since Shakti is a part of Shiva, the tiger skin symbolises His victory over all sorts of forces present in the Universe.

Crescent

Lord Shiva is known by the name of 'Chandrashekhara' or the one who holds the moon on His head. The crescent worn by Lord Shiva is actually the moon in its fifth day phase and symbolizes the cycle of time through which the process of creation evolves, the beginning till the end. Hence the moon is the measure of time and the crescent on Lord Shiva's head signifies His control over time. It shows that Lord Shiva is beyond the measure of time and is the eternal reality.