Lingams of Tiruvannamalai

Lingams of Tiruvannamalai

Tiruvannamalai is a holy town located in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, India. The town is known for its ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, which is believed to be one of the most significant pilgrimage destinations for Hindus. One of the most intriguing aspects of the temple is the presence of multiple lingams inside the sanctum sanctorum. In this blog, we will explore the history and significance of the number of lingams in Tiruvannamalai.

The Tiruvannamalai temple is believed to have been built during the Pallava dynasty, which ruled the region between the 3rd and 9th centuries CE. The temple complex covers an area of 25 acres and is surrounded by massive walls that enclose several gopurams (towers), mandapams (pillared halls), and prakarams (circumambulatory paths). The main shrine of the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Arunachaleswarar.

The sanctum sanctorum of the Arunachaleswarar temple houses several lingams, each representing a specific aspect of Lord Shiva. According to the legend, there are eight lingams inside the sanctum sanctorum, representing the eight directions. These lingams are known as Ashtalingams and are believed to be self-manifested (swayambhu). The eight lingams are:

Indra Lingam - representing the east

Agni Lingam - representing the southeast

Yama Lingam - representing the south

Niruthi Lingam - representing the southwest

Varuna Lingam - representing the west

Vayu Lingam - representing the northwest

Kubera Lingam - representing the north

Ishana Lingam - representing the northeast

Apart from these eight lingams, there are several other lingams inside the sanctum sanctorum. One of the most significant lingams is the Maha Lingam, which is believed to be the largest lingam in the temple complex. The Maha Lingam is said to represent the cosmic form of Lord Shiva, and it is the focal point of the temple's daily worship and annual festivals.

Another important lingam is the Atma Lingam, which is located beneath the Maha Lingam. The Atma Lingam is said to represent the innermost self or soul, and it is believed that worshipping the Atma Lingam can help one attain liberation (moksha) from the cycle of birth and death.

Apart from these lingams, there are several other shrines and lingams dedicated to various deities inside the temple complex. The temple also houses a sacred tank called the Sivagangai, which is believed to be the source of the river Palar.

In conclusion, the Tiruvannamalai temple is a significant pilgrimage destination for Hindus, and the presence of multiple lingams inside the sanctum sanctorum adds to its spiritual significance. The eight Ashtalingams and other lingams inside the temple complex represent various aspects of Lord Shiva and provide devotees with a deeper understanding of the divine nature of the deity. The temple's rich history, architecture, and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the religious and spiritual traditions of India.