New SWAHA Publication: Shiva Upaasanaa (A Guide to Shiva Worship)

As Hindus across the world prepare to celebrate the auspicious occasion of Maha Shiva Raatri, SWAHA is releasing a new publication to guide the aspirant on the path of devotion to Lord Shiva. Entitled Shiva Upaasanaa (ISBN : 978-976-8210-26-5), which means ‘worship of Shiva’, this latest project of SWAHA Publications provides a metaphysical understanding of Shiva worship. In addition, it also outlines a step-by-step guide to the performance of Shiva worship which individuals and families can use in the home. In his introduction, Paramacharya Pt. Hardeo Persad (Spiritual Head) indicated that the worship of Lord Shiva is integral to Hindu worship and leads to the attainment of the quality of spiritual dispassion. Shiva worship is therefore necessary in today’s world which is fraught with numerous physical, social and mental challenges. This expression of communication to the Divine is a form of Nitya Karma or daily activity to which everyone is duty-bound.

The first section of the book focuses on the nature of Shiva (the destroying and reabsorbing aspect of Divinity), and symbolic representations of the form itself that is iconographed in temples everywhere. There are also explanations of various mantras, including the miraculous effects of the powerful Mrityunjaya Mantra. This mantra is used to ward off untimely death, and frees one from the ravages of illnesses and all forms of pain. Some frequently asked questions pertaining to the worship of Shivaji are also answered in this segment of the book.

The latter segment of the publication deals exclusively with the physical preparations and the actual worship of Shiva. Designed for personalised use, all preliminary preparations are carefully and comprehensively explained. A pooja checklist and a step by step format for offerings and mantras are clearly laid out so that the devotee can make use of this valuable information at any time. Powerful Sanskrit Stotras pertaining to Lord Shiva are included for devotees wishing to offer praise to the divine and to overcome life’s obstacles.

SWAHA believes that this book will be an invaluable companion to the spiritual aspirant, especially at this present auspicious period of Maha Shiva Raatri. It is an offering that directs one to all forms of spiritual affluence. Shiva Upaasanaa is a must for every home and will be available from January 28th 2010 at Praimsingh’s (Chaguanas & Curepe), The Little Store (Curepe), Satanand Enterprises (Chaguanas), Oma’s Puja Store (San Fernando), The Puja Centre (Tunapuna), Agni Puja Store (St. Helena), Anjanie’s (Sangre Grande) and Bina’s Puja Store (Aranjuez). Orders are also accepted at SWAHA’s Head Office (Ph: 674-7384) and all SWAHA Centres and Branches. A full preview of the book is embedded below (Flash Player required).