MAHA Shiv-raatri is translated as the ‘Great Night of Auspiciousness’, which commonly is observed and celebrated once annually with great pomp and festivities. 

It is indelibly marked with elaborate rituals, and as a time when there appears to be recommitment and, to an extent, an awakening of that religious instinct among those who observe the occasion. It is one of the major Hindu celebrations which is observed, according to Hindu calendar, on the 14th day of the dark fortnight in the month of ‘Phalguna (corresponds to February/March)’.
Maha Shiv-raatri originally refers to the much-perfected state of spiritual realization, divinity and holiness, which the true spiritual seekers of yore had achieved. In order that the pursuit of the path of such realization may come to the masses, and that the lesser god-realized persons may spend time in lifting their minds to noble ideals, directing it to the Lord, Maha Shiv-raatri has been brought into a very significant ritual, dedicating this day to Lord Shiva.
Hindu mythology depicts Lord Shiva with many signs and symbols, each of which is symbolic on the path of spirituality. Lord Shiva is depicted sitting in a meditative posture, which represents Omniscience and Oneness with universe. A crescent moon and a lock of matted hair, through which the Ganges flows, are apparent.
The moon represents the stillness and tranquility of the mind that is imperative for spiritual growth and evolution. The movement of time is also another meaning of the moon. The matted hair symbolizes the journey of the soul to achieve purity, spiritual wisdom and union with God. The flowing of the Ganges represents the purity and spiritual wisdom that has to be attained to become one with the Supreme.
The serpent coiling around him may appear to be horrifying, but it has lofty significances. It signifies spiritual powers and cosmic energies, and also the Supreme command and control God has over nature.
Moreover, the snake around Him stands for fearlessness and power to remove fearlessness. The trident he wields represents the sharpness of the mind to conquer vices, and traverse to unite with the Supreme.
In essence, Shiv-raatri is an opportunity to begin to realise the latent divine self within. It is ideally a spiritual observance, and reminder of the need for spirituality. It is marked as the “Great Night of Auspiciousness”, where true spiritual seekers rededicate themselves to the subjective science and the pursuit of excellence in their daily lives.

PANDIT CHARRANLALL NANDALALL
Secretary of Sanatan Vaidic Dharma Pandits’ Sabha, Region 3