According to Hindu legend, the 12 jyotirlingas originated from an episode involving Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu. Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu were arguing about who was more powerful and supreme. To settle the dispute, Lord Shiva appeared as a huge infinite pillar of light called the jyotirlinga.
Both Brahma and Vishnu tried to find the top and bottom of the jyotirlinga but failed. Brahma lied that he found the top, while Vishnu admitted his defeat. Lord Shiva was angered by Brahma’s lie and cursed him to not be worshipped. He declared that Vishnu, who was honest, would be eternally worshipped.
The 12 jyotirlinga sites mark the places where that infinite jyotirlinga touched the earth. Each jyotirlinga represents a different manifestation of Lord Shiva and is associated with its own legend. The jyotirlingas are believed to emit divine light and are considered extremely sacred and powerful places of worship.
Some key points:
- The jyotirlinga refers to the linga of Lord Shiva that radiates divine light and grants salvation.
- Originally there were believed to be 64 jyotirlingas, but 12 are considered the most sacred and powerful.
- The 12 jyotirlingas are located at astrologically and geographically significant points energized using the science of temples to make them extremely potent spiritual tools.
- Pilgrimage to the 12 jyotirlingas is considered highly sacred and is believed to cleanse one of all sins and bestow material and spiritual prosperity.
- The number 12 itself has spiritual significance in Hinduism, representing completeness and perfection.
So in short
The legend behind the 12 jyotirlingas revolves around the story of Lord Brahma and Vishnu’s rivalry, Lord Shiva’s manifestation as the infinite jyotirlinga, and the 12 places where that jyotirlinga touched the earth, forming some of the most sacred and powerful shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Hope this helps summarize the legend! Let me know if you have any other questions.