Sacred Jyotirlinga
Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga
Sacred History
Ramanathaswamy Temple is one of the sacred 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and is located on the island town of Rameswaram.
This temple holds immense importance because it is closely associated with Lord Rama from the epic Ramayana.
Rameswaram is also part of the sacred Char Dham pilgrimage, making it one of the most important spiritual destinations in India.
Devotees believe that worshipping here brings purification, forgiveness of sins, and spiritual liberation.
Story of Rameshwaram
According to the Ramayana, after defeating Ravana, Lord Rama wanted to seek forgiveness for the sin of killing a Brahmin, since Ravana was born into a Brahmin family.
To perform this act of purification, Rama decided to worship Lord Shiva.
He asked Hanuman to bring a Shiva Lingam from the Himalayas, but when Hanuman was delayed, Goddess Sita created a Shiva Lingam from sand.
Lord Rama worshipped this Lingam, which later became the sacred Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga.
This story symbolizes devotion, humility, and the importance of seeking forgiveness.
Connection to Ramayana
The temple is closely connected with the journey of Lord Rama and the events described in the Ramayana.
Holy Water Tanks
The temple has 22 sacred wells called Theerthams where devotees perform ritual baths before entering the temple.
Bridge to Lanka
Nearby lies the legendary Ram Setu, believed to be the bridge built by Lord Rama's army to reach Lanka.
Divine Blessings
Forgiveness of sins
Spiritual purification
Peace of mind
Removal of karmic burdens
Blessings for family and well-being