Introduction
In Sanatan Dharma, every day of the week carries sacred significance—but Monday (Somvar) holds a particularly divine connection with Lord Shiva, the cosmic force of destruction, transformation, and boundless compassion. Ancient scriptures like the Shiv Puran and Vedic traditions explain why Somvar is considered the most spiritually charged day for worshipping Mahadev. Even today, millions of devotees fast, chant, and meditate on Mondays to seek Shiva’s blessings.
But why exactly is Monday dedicated to Lord Shiva? Let’s explore the scriptural wisdom, Vedic symbolism, and spiritual practices that make Somvar a day of surrender to Bholenath.
The Spiritual Meaning of Somvar (Monday)
The word ‘Somvar’ comes from the Sanskrit word ‘Soma’, meaning the Moon. Lord Shiva is known as Somnath, the one who wears the moon on his matted locks. In fact, the moon represents the mind and emotions—two things Lord Shiva governs with stillness and detachment.
In Vedic philosophy, the moon governs the mind, emotions, and thoughts. Since Lord Shiva is the embodiment of stillness and detachment, dedicating Monday to Him helps devotees calm their minds and channel their energy towards peace and clarity.
Just as devotees observe Monday fasts for Lord Shiva, many also follow sacred traditions like Tulsi Puja and Tulsi Vivah, which carry deep spiritual importance in Sanatan Dharma. You can read more about the importance of Tulsi Puja and daily rituals here.
✨ Spiritual Insight: Mondays are not just about rituals—they are a reminder to pause in our busy lives, meditate, and surrender inner chaos to Mahadev’s serene presence.
Shiv Puran Reference: The Tale of Chandra Dev and His Curse
The story of Chandra Dev, Daksha’s curse and Shiva’s blessing is found in Shiva Purana, Rudra Samhita, Part 2 — Koti Rudra Samhita (Srishti-khanda / Satī-khanda) in many standard recensions and how it is linked with monday.
The Shiv Puran Story of Chandra Dev
Chandra was married to the 27 daughters of Daksha Prajapati (representing the 27 Nakshatras).However, he favored one wife, Rohini, which angered Daksha. In his fury, Daksha cursed Chandra to gradually lose his luster and fade away. Desperate and weakened, he prayed to Lord Shiva for salvation. Pleased by his devotion, Shiva blessed him and wore him on His head, thus becoming Chandrashekhar. This is why Mondays (linked to the Moon) became a day of great importance for worshipping Shiva with devotion.
Why Devotees Fast on Mondays (Somvar Vrat)?
Somvar Vrat is one of the most widely observed fasts in Hindu tradition, supported by references in the Shiv Puran and other Vedic texts.
Benefits of Somvar Vrat (Monday Fasts)
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To Seek Blessings in Marriage: Women especially keep the Somvar Vrat to find a life partner with Shiva-like qualities—calm, faithful, and strong. Many stories of Shiva-Parvati’s union inspire this practice.
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To Attain Peace of Mind: Fasting and meditating on Shiva brings stability to a restless mind. Reciting the mantra “Om Namah Shivaya” purifies energy and reduces anxiety.
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To Cleanse Karma: Shiva is known as Pap Nashak (destroyer of sins). Observing the vrat sincerely helps purify past karmic imbalances.
Mantra for the Day:
Om Namah Shivaya – A five-syllable mantra (Panchakshari) revered for inner peace, energy cleansing, and spiritual elevation.
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Monday Rituals and Offerings to Please Lord Shiva
To connect with Lord Shiva on Somvar, devotees offer simple yet profound puja rituals:
- 🥛 Milk Abhishekam – pouring milk over the Shiva Lingam symbolizes purity and surrender.
- 🌿 Bilva Leaves (Bel Patra) – cooling, sacred leaves believed to cleanse karma and please Mahadev.
- 🔥 Dhoop & Deepam – lighting incense and lamps purifies the environment and invites divine energy.
- 📖 Chanting Rudram or Shiva Chalisa – invokes Shiva’s protective and healing energies.
💡 Tip for families: Engage children in rituals by telling them Shiva stories and teaching them to chant Om Namah Shivaya. This strengthens spiritual values and discipline in daily life.
Spiritual Parenting Insight:
For parents raising children in modern times, Monday Shiva rituals can be a beautiful way to introduce spirituality at home:
- Light a diya with your child every Monday.
- Narrate the story of Chandra Dev and Lord Shiva.
- Chant Om Namah Shivaya together as a bedtime prayer.
Introducing children to Monday Shiva rituals through stories and simple mantras creates a spiritual foundation early in life. It teaches the values of discipline, devotion, and calmness—rooted in Indian tradition.
👉 If you’re a parent seeking more ways to blend spirituality with baby care, you may like my guide on the Magic of Lullabies, White Noise & Baby Music for Peaceful Sleep.
Why This Knowledge Still Matters Today
In a world full of distractions and chaos, dedicating one day a week to silence, surrender, and self-awareness can be life-changing. Mondays with Mahadev aren’t just rituals—they’re a reminder to pause, reflect, and connect with the divine presence within us. Aligning with dharmic practices that purify karma and nurture spiritual growth.
👉 For deeper reflections on how ancient wisdom guides modern life, you can also explore my posts on the Bhagavad Gita Adhyay Simplified and Which Chapter of the Gita Solves What? A Practical Guide for Modern Life.
Conclusion
Whether it’s through a humble chant, a fast, or a quiet prayer, Monday offers a beautiful opportunity to grow closer to Lord Shiva. The Shiv Puran reminds us that Mahadev is Ashutosh—the one who is easily pleased. Even a drop of true devotion offered on Somvar can open the gates to peace, health, and spiritual fulfillment.
So the next Monday, instead of dreading it as the start of the workweek, embrace it as a divine opportunity to connect with Mahadev, the eternal source of peace, strength, and transformation.
