Lord Shiva - Lingashtakam

Ashtakam in Sanskrit means eight stanzas or verses. They were one of the favorite structures of the rishis (sage) of the past when composing Shlokas (prayers). One such Ashtakam that echoes across temples in India is the worship of Lord Shiva, "Lingashtakam". A countless number of people wake up every day to the holy sounds of this composition set to a melodious tune that reflects the cultural ethos of that particular region. Written by Adi Shankaracharya, himself considered to be an avatar of Lord Shiva, Shiva Lingashtakam is a prayer offered to Lord Shiva in the form of linga (meaning symbol in Sanskrit). The prayer is a declaration of faith, obedience, loyalty, and devotion towards Lord Shiva. Shivalinga is a symbolic representation of the creation of the Universe from the eternal play of Shiva and Shakti. Shiva Lingashtakam lists Lord Shiva’s glories and the benefits of worshipping the Shivalinga.