Parli Vaijnath Temple Story – Parli Shiva Temple

Parli Vaijnath Temple is dedicated to Shiva and is located at Parli in Beed District in Maharashtra. The story of this Shiva Temple is associated with the Churning of Ocean or Samdura Manthana mentioned in the Puranas. It must be noted that many scholars are of the opinion that Parli Vaijnath is a Jyothirlinga temple – Deoghar Temple in Jharkhand also claim it is the same Jyothirlinga temple.

Legend has it that when Amruta appeared after the Churning of Ocean or Samdura Manthana, Bhagvan Srihari Vishnu took the form of Mohini and hid Amritha and Dhanvantri in the Shivling at Parli.

When those who followed Adharma touched the Shivling, flames emerged from it.

When those who followed Dharma touched the Shivling, Amrita (elixir of life) flowed from it.

The Shivling at Parli is believed to have Amrita and medicines (Dhanvantri). Parli is surrounded by mountains and forests with medicinal plants. Because of the presence of Dhanvantari in the Shivling, and of its surroundings Parli Jyothirlinga is known as Vaijnath.

Spiritual Significance Of Parli Vaijnath Temple

The Parli Vaijnath Temple, also known as Vaijnath Temple, is a significant pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva. It holds immense spiritual significance for devotees, primarily due to its historical and mythological importance. Here are some spiritual aspects associated with the temple:

Mythological Significance: According to Hindu mythology, Parli Vaijnath is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva resided after he destroyed the demon named Tripurasura. It is said that Lord Shiva was pleased with the devotion of the demon king Ravana, who was a great devotee of Lord Shiva, and granted him the Atma Linga (self-manifested lingam) to take to his kingdom. However, Ravana couldn't carry it for long, and it was ultimately established at Gokarna. Legend has it that during this journey, Ravana had to perform his evening prayers and hence set down the lingam at Parli, giving rise to the temple.

Jyotirlinga: The lingam worshipped at Parli Vaijnath is considered one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, which are believed to be the most sacred abodes of Lord Shiva. These Jyotirlingas are believed to be self-manifested and hold immense spiritual power. Devotees believe that worshiping the Jyotirlingas grants spiritual enlightenment, fulfillment of desires, and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Pilgrimage and Rituals: Thousands of devotees visit the Parli Vaijnath Temple every year to seek blessings from Lord Shiva. Pilgrims often undertake long journeys and perform various rituals and prayers to express their devotion. The temple's serene ambiance, along with the spiritual vibrations, creates an atmosphere conducive to meditation and introspection.

Spiritual Healing: It is believed that the waters of the nearby holy tank, known as Dharmapuri Teertha, possess healing properties. Devotees take holy dips in this tank as it is said to cure various ailments and purify the soul. The spiritual atmosphere of the temple and the surrounding area is often associated with emotional and physical healing.

Devotional Practices: Regular devotional practices such as chanting of mantras, offering of flowers, fruits, and other sacred items, and performing aarti (ritual of worship involving fire) are carried out by the temple priests and devotees. These practices help in fostering a deep spiritual connection with the divine.

Overall, the Parli Vaijnath Temple holds immense spiritual significance for devotees, offering them an opportunity for spiritual growth, healing, and experiencing the divine presence of Lord Shiva.

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