Baidyanath Jyotirlinga, the temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is the only temple that represents Shiva and Shakti in one linga.
It is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga in India. Baidhyanath Temple is also known as Vaidyanath Temple or Babadham.
Baidyanath Jyotirlinga holds a memorable place in Hindu mythology texts like Shivapurana, Ramayana, and Matsyapurana.
The Temple is located beautifully close to the Mayurkashi River loved by those who love to travel on religious journeys.
Where Baidyanath Temple is situated?
Baidyanath Jyotirlinga Temple is situated at Santhal Parganas of Deoghar, Jharkhand near the Mayurkashi river in India. The Temple is worshipped as Jyotirlingam and as Shaktipeetham.
Let’s take a look at Baidyanath Temple Architecture
The Baidyanath Temple is beautifully crafted and has a spacious courtyard surrounded by walls of white stone and there are 21 other temples dedicated to other Gods.
The temple is divided into three parts the entrance, the main building, and the middle part. The top of the temple looks like a white lotus. The whole temple was sculpted by one single rock.
The Jyotirlinga is 5 inches wide and sits on 4 inch stone base. Right next to the main Shiva Temple, there is a temple of Goddess Parvati, and both temples of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are connected through sacred threads.
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Discover Baidyanath Jyotirlinga Temple History
It is said that King Ravana prayed devotedly to Lord Shiva, hoping to keep Lanka safe.
Pleased with the prayer of Ravana, Shiva allowed him to take his Lingam to Shri Lanka for safety and there was the condition that the Lingam should not be broken or given to anyone during the journey.
The gods were concerned that Ravana might misuse the Shiva Lingam, therefore water god Varun entered Ravana’s Belly and had an urgency to release water, so he handed over the Lingam to Brahmin, who was Lord Ganesha’s avatar.
Then Brahmin put the lingam in Deoghar and it was fixed there.
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Why Shiva is Known as Baidyanath?
When Ravana was cutting his ten heads one by one to the Shivalinga and while cutting his tenth head, Lord Shiva emerged there and healed Ravana’s wound, Shiva was so impressed by Ravana’s devotion that he made him Dashanan again.
Because of healing the wounds of Ravana Lord Shiva is known as Baba Baidyanath.
Baidynath Jyotirlinga Temple Ritual
A special tradition happens in the temple where volunteers climb the peaks of Shiva and Parvati to tie them with a sacred thread given by devotees.
It is a meaningful tradition to symbolize the unity of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
The Locals believe that those who take part in this ritual live longer and more healthier lives. This ritual goes from generation to generation, and many volunteers and devotees have lived for more than 100 years without any accidents occurring during the ritual. Devotees strongly believe it is the blessing of Mahadev.
Temple Timings at Baidyanath Jyotirlinga
The timings may vary or be extended on religious occasions.
| Opening Time | 4:00 AM |
| Visiting Timing | 4:00 AM to 3:30 PM |
| Visiting Timing | 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM |
Aartis Performed at Baidyanath Temple
| Visheh Pooja | 4:00 AM |
| Kakad Aarti | 4:30 AM |
| Maha Aarti | 7:30 PM |
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Interesting Facts about Baidyanath Jyotirlinga
- This temple is ninth among 12 jyotirlingas and it is also mentioned in Maha Shivpuran.
- Deoghar which means “abode of the Gods” and the Baidyananth is considered as home of Lord Shiva.
- Baidyanath Temple is a powerful symbol of unity, connecting people worldwide through their devotion to Lord Shiva.
- There is no record or evidence of the origin of the temple but old Hindu texts call it Hari van adding to its historical significance.
How to reach Baidyanath Jyotirlinga Temple?
By Train: You can take a train to Jasidih Junction or Baidyanath Dham Railway Station from there take a bus or taxi to reach Temple.
By Bus: First reach to Deoghar bus stand from there Temple is 3 km away, and you can easily find a taxi to reach the temple.
By Air: Arrive at Patna’s Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport or Ranchi’s Birsa Munda Airport, you can take a train or a bus to reach the temple.
Places to visit near Baidyanath Jyotirlinga Temple
Naulakha Mandir: It is about 2km away from Baidyanath Jyotirlinga Temple. It has a similar architecture to the Ramakrishna temple in Berul. There are beautiful idols of Radha Krishna makes a special place to worship.
Trikuta Parvata: It is situated at a distance of approx 10km from Deoghar. It is known for its three peaks and the temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Mayurkashi River: It is about 3.8km away from the temple. The Mayurakshi River flows near Deoghar, adding to the beauty of the area. It’s a water source for people living nearby.
Conclusion
Baiidyanath Temple is important in Hindu mythology, drawing in lots of visitors who come to pray and seek blessings from Lord Shiva.
It has an enduring impact on devotees worldwide, being a special place where faith and devotion unite. It’s a timeless place that welcomes everyone seeking peace and blessings, making it a special place for people all around the world.
