Rudrabhishek: Method, Materials and What Each Offering Gives

Shiva is worshipped in many forms, but Rudrabhishek is regarded as the highest of them. When the Shiva lingam is bathed with the mantras of the Rudra Sukta from the Yajurveda, the rite is called Rudrabhishek.

The Shiva Purana states that Shiva is abhisheka priya, fond of ritual bathing. Where other deities are pleased by flowers, cloth and ornament, Shiva is satisfied by a stream of water. This is why he is called Ashutosh, the one who is quickly pleased.

The form of the ritual

In Rudrabhishek a continuous stream is poured over the lingam while Vedic recitation continues without interruption.

The principal text is the Rudrashtadhyayi, of which the Namakam and Chamakam chapters are central. In the Namakam the various forms of Shiva are saluted; in the Chamakam the needs of life are asked for.

What each substance gives

The most distinctive feature of Rudrabhishek is that different substances are held to produce different results.

Water brings rain and general peace. It is the simplest and most accessible form.

Milk brings health, long life and mental calm. This is the most commonly performed version.

Curd brings the happiness of children and prosperity in livestock.

Ghee brings continuation of the family line and recovery of health.

Honey brings freedom from debt and relief from disorders of the voice.

Sugared water brings comfort and prosperity.

Sugarcane juice brings wealth and abundance.

Sacred ash brings liberation and the removal of accumulated wrong.

Panchamrit abhishek

The most widely performed version is the panchamrit abhishek, in which milk, curd, ghee, honey and sugar are used in sequence, with pure water poured after each.

What is needed

A Shiva lingam or clay lingam, Ganga water, pure water, milk, curd, ghee, honey, sugar, bel leaves, datura, aak flowers, bhang, white flowers, sandalwood, sacred ash, incense, a lamp, offering food, a kalash and a seat.

The bel leaf matters particularly. Its three leaflets are taken as the three eyes and the three qualities of Shiva. When offering it, the smooth side should face the lingam.

When it is performed

Monday is Shiva's day and the best for abhishek.

Pradosh, the evening of the thirteenth tithi, is especially auspicious. Mahashivratri and the whole month of Shravan are set aside for Shiva worship.

Astrologically, Rudrabhishek is prescribed during Sade Sati and Dhaiya, during Rahu and Ketu periods, and in cases of serious illness. Performed with the Mahamrityunjaya mantra it is considered the most effective rite for health and longevity.

Points of practice

The stream should not break, which is why a dhara patra is used.

Ketaki flowers and tulsi are not offered on a Shiva lingam, and turmeric is likewise avoided.

The channel through which the water drains should not be stepped across.

All substances should be fresh and clean.

A practical note

The effect of a Rudrabhishek rests on correct recitation and a clear sankalpa. The Rudrashtadhyayi is difficult to recite with proper accent, and errors change the result.

For occasions that matter, it is worth having the rite performed by a pandit who is practised in it. Purity of method and sincerity of intent count for more than the scale of the offering.