The form of Lord Shiva is considered extremely important and mysterious in Hinduism. Many of his characteristics and symbols reflect his infinite powerful nature. One of these is a prominent and very popular symbol – wearing Nagraj (snake) in the neck of Lord Shiva. This form raises many questions in the minds of the devotees, why did Shiva hold the serpent around his neck? In this article, we will tell you in detail about this holy and ancient story which explains this mystery.
Importance of serpents and their relationship with Shiva
Nag (snake) is considered sacred and divine in Hinduism. Nagraj and Nagas are worshiped in many places. They symbolize power, protection and life energy. It is believed that Nag is the carrier of the power of the universe and their knowledge is very deep. Shiva ji is called ‘Nageshwar’, which means ‘lord of snakes’. Nagas have many religious and philosophical meanings to show deep relations with Shiva.
Legend: Why Nagraj holds around the neck?
According to an ancient legend, when the sea churned, both nectar and poison came out of the ocean. Poison (Kalika poison) was such a poisonous object that the whole world could not bear it. When the outbreak of poison began to spread, the gods and asuras sought help from Lord Shiva. Shiva held the poison around his neck so that the poison could not spread on the earth and does not harm the animals.
Due to wearing this poison, the color of the neck of Lord Shiva turned blue, and hence he is called ‘Neelkanth’. Nagas also have an important place in this context because snakes symbolize the strength and control associated with the poison. Therefore, Lord Shiva put the serpents around his neck so that they could control poison and other negative forces.
Snake’s religious and philosophical importance
The having a snake around the neck of Lord Shiva is interpreted in many sense:
Symbol of destruction and resurrection: Nag represents the cycle of death and rebirth. The snake around Shiva’s neck shows that he is the master of both the destruction and reconstruction of the world.
Symbol of power: Nag is a symbol of power, energy and conservation. Shiva’s penance and yoga power are depicted as a snake, which controls his vast energy.
The emotion above fear: When the serpent remains around the neck, it reflects the fearlessness and complete control of Shiva. Whatever fear and hindrance, Shiva crosses it.
Love for nature and creatures: Nag is a creature that Shiva has given protection. This gives the message that Shiva is the patron of all living beings.
Nag’s presence in Shiva’s personality
Being a snake around Lord Shiva’s neck has become his unique identity. Seeing this form of him, there is a feeling of courage and security among the devotees. The tradition of placing a snake around Shiva’s neck also teaches that no matter how much poisonous conditions in life, they can be controlled in restraint and peace.
Nagpuja and Shiva worship relation
Nagas are worshiped in many parts of India, especially on Nagpanchami. On this day, devotees also worship the serpents while worshiping Lord Shiva. It is believed that the worship of the serpents removes suffering and brings happiness and prosperity in life. The story of Nag around Shiva’s neck assures devotees that Shiva protects from poison and evil.
conclusion
Wearing Nagaraja around Lord Shiva’s neck is not just a symbolic worship material, but it is a symbol of his divine form, peace, power, and control. This mythology teaches us that to fight poison and evil requires restraint and courage. Shiva ji took poison around his neck and protected the whole world, and Nag represents his great work.
This unique identity of Lord Shiva is a ray of hope and belief for devotees, which inspires him to maintain courage and restraint in every odd situation of life.
