The Jyotirling: Human Faith Redefined

Hinduism has conceptualised the Trimurti by associating human personification with each of the three stages of Universal Cycle of Cosmic functions, viz. Lord Brahma with the first stage of creation, Lord Vishnu with the second stage of preservation and Lord Shiva with the third stage of destruction and recreation. The third stage is complex as Hinduism does not believe in destruction of the Universe of lives. Tasks of Shiva thus become toughest of the three. His function involves regular dissolution followed with recreation upon the tilting of the balance between the opposing forces of good and evil. Eternal, infinite, all pervading and all powerful Lord is embodied by the Jyotirling, the Radiant Sign of the Almighty Shiva. Jyotirling shrines are Temples where Shiva is believed to have appeared as a fiery column of light beginingless and endless Pillar. Hindus see this infinite nature in the primary image of the ovoid shape lingam, representing absolute perfection of Lord Shiva. Jyotirlings are not ordinary Shiva linga but they are Swayambhu. They were created where and whenever Lord Shiva appeared on person consequent to people's desperate prayer to save them from being ignominious. Those events provided every Jyotirlings with its own Mythological legends associated with Lord's manifestation. Mystery of Lord Shiva and the Jyotirlings drove Author to undertake pilgrimage of the 12 Jyotirlings. He experienced the truth of people's faith. With his explanation of the basic human traits this travelogue has redefined Human faith of Lord Shiva.