How Do You Spell SHIVARATRI?

Pronunciation: [ʃˈɪvɐɹˌatɹi] (IPA)

Shivaratri is a Hindu festival that celebrates Lord Shiva. The word is spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /ʃiːvəˈrɑːtri/. The first syllable is pronounced as "shee," which is a long "e" sound followed by "vuh" for the second syllable, and "ra" for the third syllable. The final two syllables are pronounced together as "tree," with the "t" and "r" blending together. Shivaratri is observed during the night of the new moon in the Hindu month of Phalguna or Falgun.

Meaning and Definition
Etymology
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SHIVARATRI Meaning and Definition

  1. Shivaratri, also known as Maha Shivaratri, is a Hindu festival celebrated annually in honor of Lord Shiva. The term "Shivaratri" is derived from two Sanskrit words - "Shiva," which refers to the supreme deity in Hinduism, and "Ratri," meaning "night." Thus, Shivaratri translates to "the night of Shiva."

    This festival is observed on the 14th day (Krishna Paksha) of the Hindu lunar month of Phalguna or Maagh, which usually falls between February and March in the Gregorian calendar. Devotees across India and in various parts of the world commemorate Shivaratri by observing fasts, performing rituals, and engaging in devotional practices throughout the night.

    The significance of Shivaratri varies among different sects and regions in Hinduism. Devotees believe that Lord Shiva performs the cosmic dance of creation, preservation, and destruction on this auspicious night. They seek his blessings for spiritual growth, peace, and prosperity. Additionally, this festival symbolizes the marriage of Lord Shiva and goddess Parvati, emphasizing the union of divine masculine and feminine energies.

    During Shivaratri, temples are adorned with flowers, bilva leaves, and water. Devotees offer prayers, chant mantras, and perform abhishek (ritual bathing) of Shiva Linga with milk, yogurt, honey, and water. Many people stay awake all night, engaging in continuous meditation and devotional singing, known as bhajans, to honor Lord Shiva.

    Shivaratri holds immense cultural and religious significance for devotees, fostering a sense of unity and spiritual devotion among Hindu communities worldwide.

Etymology of SHIVARATRI

The word "Shivaratri" originates from the combination of two Sanskrit words: "Shiva" + "ratri".

1. Shiva: Shiva is one of the principal deities in Hinduism, known as the destroyer and transformer. He is considered the supreme being and is worshipped by millions of devotees.

2. Ratri: Ratri is a Sanskrit word that means "night". In Hindu mythology, each day is divided into different parts called "praharas", and one prahara of the night is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Combining these two words, "Shiva" (Lord Shiva) and "ratri" (night), gives us "Shivaratri", which translates to "the night of Shiva".