Jnana Dakshinamurti is a manifestation of Hindu God Shiva widely worshipped in South India – especially in Tamil Nadu and Kerala. As Jnana Dakshinamurthy, Lord Shiva is the primordial Guru. He is the teacher of yoga, music, all arts and sciences and holds the key to the knowledge of spiritual truths in Hinduism.
Dakshinamurti means one facing the South. Thus majority of temples dedicated to Dakshinamurti face south. But there are some rare temples with the murti facing north and west (these have special characteristic attached to the place).
Self Realization - Jnana Dakshinamurti
Jnana Dakshinamurti is primarily concerned with self realization – escape from attachment to fleeting pleasures and happiness derived from senses. Removal of ignorance through introspection and with the help of scriptures is the main method adopted by this manifestation of Shiva.
The Murti Form of Jnana Dakshinamurti
Jnana Dakshinamurti is depicted as sitting under a Banyan Tree facing south. He has four hands and stamps down the demon of ignorance. Sometimes Dakshinamurthy is surrounded by saints and animals.
The most auspicious day dedicated to Jnana Dakshinamurti is Thursday.
Guru or Jupiter is the guardian deity of Thursday and since the day is dedicated to Dakshinamurthy, people who have trouble with Jupiter (Brihaspati or Guru) in horoscope offer prayers in Dakshinamurthy Temple
Some of the important temples dedicated to Jnana Dakshinamurti are the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple
The Jyotirlinga Temple associated with Jnana Dakshinamurti is the famous Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain