108 Names of Lord Shiva: The Sacred Ashtottara Shatanamavali for Monday Worship
Introduction: The Power of Shiva’s Divine Names
Monday, known as Somwar in Hindi, is sacred to Lord Shiva. Devotees across the world observe fasts, visit temples, and chant the 108 names of Lord Shiva (Shiva Ashtottara Shatanamavali) on this auspicious day to receive his divine blessings. Each of the 108 names reveals a unique aspect of Mahadeva’s infinite nature, from the benevolent Shankara to the fierce Rudra, from the cosmic dancer Nataraja to the eternal yogi Mahayogi.
Chanting these sacred names on Monday mornings carries immense spiritual power, helping devotees overcome obstacles, find inner peace, and progress on their spiritual journey. Whether you’re in India or abroad, this ancient practice connects you directly with the transformative energy of Lord Shiva.
Why Monday for Lord Shiva Worship?
The Moon Connection
Monday is ruled by the Moon (Chandra/Soma), and Lord Shiva wears the crescent moon on his matted locks. This celestial connection makes Monday particularly auspicious for Shiva worship. The cooling, calming energy of both the Moon and Shiva’s grace combine to bring peace to troubled minds and healing to weary souls.
Breaking the Week’s Stress
Starting your week with Shiva’s names sets a powerful spiritual foundation. Modern life brings constant pressures—work deadlines, relationship challenges, financial concerns, and health anxieties. Monday morning Shiva worship transforms your entire week, replacing anxiety with confidence and fear with faith.
Historical and Scriptural Significance
Ancient texts including the Shiva Purana emphasize Monday’s importance for Shiva devotion. Sages and saints throughout history have maintained Monday fasting and worship traditions, passing down this powerful practice through generations.
The Complete 108 Names of Lord Shiva (Shiva Ashtottara Shatanamavali)
How to Use This List
Before beginning, sit in a clean, quiet space. Light a lamp and incense if possible. Take a few deep breaths to center yourself. You can chant these names using a rudraksha mala (prayer beads) or simply count on your fingers. Each name is followed by “Namaha” (I bow to you).
The 108 Sacred Names
- Om Shivaya Namaha – The Auspicious One
- Om Maheshwaraya Namaha – The Great Lord
- Om Shambhave Namaha – The Benevolent One
- Om Pinakine Namaha – The Wielder of the Trident
- Om Shashishekharaya Namaha – The One Who Wears the Moon
- Om Vamadevaya Namaha – The Pleasing and Beautiful God
- Om Virupakshaya Namaha – The One with Unique Eyes
- Om Kapardine Namaha – The One with Matted Hair
- Om Nilalohitaya Namaha – The Blue-Throated One
- Om Shankaraya Namaha – The Giver of Joy
- Om Shulapanaye Namaha – The Holder of the Trident
- Om Khatvangine Namaha – The One Who Carries a Skull-Staff
- Om Vishnuvallabhaya Namaha – Dear to Lord Vishnu
- Om Shipivishtaya Namaha – The Embodiment of All Sacrifices
- Om Ambikanathaya Namaha – The Husband of Goddess Ambika (Parvati)
- Om Shrikanthaya Namaha – The Beautiful-Throated One
- Om Bhaktavatsalaya Namaha – The Lover of Devotees
- Om Bhavaya Namaha – The Source of All Existence
- Om Sharvaya Namaha – The Destroyer of Sorrows
- Om Trilokeshaya Namaha – The Lord of Three Worlds
- Om Shitikanthaya Namaha – The White-Throated One
- Om Shivapriyaya Namaha – The Beloved of Shakti
- Om Ugraya Namaha – The Fierce One
- Om Kapaline Namaha – The Bearer of Skulls
- Om Kamaraye Namaha – The Destroyer of Desire
- Om Andhakasura-Sudanaya Namaha – The Slayer of Demon Andhaka
- Om Gangadharaya Namaha – The Bearer of River Ganga
- Om Lalatakshaya Namaha – The One with an Eye on the Forehead
- Om Kalakalaya Namaha – The Controller of Time
- Om Kripanidhaye Namaha – The Ocean of Compassion
- Om Bhimaya Namaha – The Tremendous One
- Om Parashuhastaya Namaha – The Holder of the Axe
- Om Mrigapanaye Namaha – The Deer-Handed One
- Om Jatadharaya Namaha – The One with Matted Locks
- Om Kailasavasine Namaha – The Resident of Mount Kailash
- Om Kavachine Namaha – The Armored One
- Om Kathoraya Namaha – The Strict and Stern One
- Om Tripurantakaya Namaha – The Destroyer of Three Cities
- Om Vrishankaya Namaha – The Bull-Emblemed One
- Om Vrishabharudhaya Namaha – The Rider of Bull (Nandi)
- Om Bhasmoddhulita-Vigrahaya Namaha – The One Smeared with Ashes
- Om Samapriyaya Namaha – The Lover of Sama Veda
- Om Svaramayaya Namaha – The Embodiment of Musical Notes
- Om Trayimurtaye Namaha – The Form of Three Vedas
- Om Anishvaraya Namaha – The Incomparable Lord
- Om Sarvagyaya Namaha – The Omniscient One
- Om Paramatmane Namaha – The Supreme Soul
- Om Somasuragni-Lochanaya Namaha – The One with Sun, Moon, and Fire as Eyes
- Om Havishe Namaha – The Recipient of Oblations
- Om Yagyamayaya Namaha – The Embodiment of Sacrifice
- Om Somaya Namaha – The Peaceful One
- Om Panchavaktraya Namaha – The Five-Faced One
- Om Sadashivaya Namaha – The Eternally Auspicious One
- Om Vishveshvaraya Namaha – The Lord of Universe
- Om Virabhadraya Namaha – The Supreme Warrior
- Om Gananathaya Namaha – The Lord of Shiva’s Attendants
- Om Prajapataye Namaha – The Lord of Creatures
- Om Hiranyaretase Namaha – The Golden-Seeded One
- Om Durdharshaya Namaha – The Invincible One
- Om Girisaya Namaha – The Lord of Mountains
- Om Girishaya Namaha – The Lord of Kailash Mountain
- Om Anagha Namaha – The Sinless One
- Om Bujangabhushanaya Namaha – The One Adorned with Serpents
- Om Bhargaya Namaha – The Radiant One
- Om Giridhanvane Namaha – The Wielder of Mountain-Bow
- Om Giripriyaya Namaha – The Lover of Mountains
- Om Krittivasase Namaha – The One Clothed in Animal Skin
- Om Purarataye Namaha – The Destroyer of Demon Cities
- Om Bhagavate Namaha – The Divine Lord
- Om Pramathadhipaya Namaha – The Lord of Goblins
- Om Ugrarupa Namaha – The One with Fierce Form
- Om Dakshaya Namaha – The Capable and Skillful One
- Om Daksha-Yajna-Vinashanaya Namaha – The Destroyer of Daksha’s Sacrifice
- Om Kankalatre Namaha – The Skeleton-Bodied One
- Om Khatvangine Namaha – The Carrier of Club
- Om Shmashana-Bhajane Namaha – The Dweller of Cremation Grounds
- Om Mahadevaya Namaha – The Great God
- Om Lokavyapine Namaha – The All-Pervading One
- Om Vamadeva Namaha – The Pleasing God
- Om Mahayogine Namaha – The Great Yogi
- Om Mahaveeryaya Namaha – The Supremely Valorous One
- Om Mahabalaya Namaha – The Immensely Strong One
- Om Mahabuddhaye Namaha – The Supremely Wise One
- Om Mahamayayaya Namaha – The Controller of Great Illusion
- Om Mahatejase Namaha – The Immensely Radiant One
- Om Mahabhagaya Namaha – The Supremely Fortunate One
- Om Mahaviraya Namaha – The Great Hero
- Om Mahasattvaya Namaha – The Supremely Pure One
- Om Maharshaye Namaha – The Great Sage
- Om Sarvakarmane Namaha – The Performer of All Actions
- Om Sarvabhutaya Namaha – The Soul of All Beings
- Om Sarvapalakaya Namaha – The Protector of All
- Om Sarvakartre Namaha – The Creator of All
- Om Sarvaikarupine Namaha – The One Form of All
- Om Sarvadaksaya Namaha – The Capable of All
- Om Anantaya Namaha – The Infinite One
- Om Kapali Namaha – The Bearer of Skull-Bowl
- Om Bhaganetrabhide Namaha – The Destroyer of Kamadeva
- Om Pashupataye Namaha – The Lord of All Creatures
- Om Mahakala Namaha – The Great Time/Death
- Om Shashvataya Namaha – The Eternal One
- Om Khandarparahaya Namaha – The Slayer of Kamadeva
- Om Bhavaya Namaha – The Origin of All
- Om Devapriyaya Namaha – The Beloved of Gods
- Om Jnanamurtaye Namaha – The Embodiment of Knowledge
- Om Sarvacharachara-Guraye Namaha – The Teacher of All Moving and Non-Moving
- Om Vishnupujitaya Namaha – The One Worshipped by Vishnu
- Om Sarvavedapadakaya Namaha – The Revealer of All Vedic Knowledge
Understanding Key Names and Their Significance
Names Revealing Shiva’s Appearance
Shashishekharaya (Moon-Crowned): The crescent moon adorning Shiva’s head represents the mind’s mastery and time’s cyclical nature. This name brings mental peace and emotional balance.
Nilalohitaya (Blue-Throated): Recalls how Shiva drank the poison Halahala during the ocean churning to save creation, holding it in his throat which turned blue. This name grants courage to face life’s poisons—toxicity, negativity, and suffering.
Jatadharaya (Matted-Locked): Shiva’s matted hair symbolizes the ascetic who has renounced worldly vanity. Chanting this helps overcome ego and material attachment.
Gangadharaya (Ganga-Bearer): Shiva caught the mighty Ganga in his locks to prevent her force from destroying earth. This name invokes protection and the ability to handle overwhelming situations.
Names Revealing Shiva’s Power
Tripurantakaya (Destroyer of Three Cities): Represents destruction of three impurities—ego, desire, and delusion. Essential for spiritual seekers.
Mahadevaya (Great God): Acknowledges Shiva as the supreme consciousness underlying all existence.
Pashupataye (Lord of Creatures): Shiva as the protector and guide of all living beings. Brings compassion and connection with all life.
Mahakala (Great Time): Shiva as the transcendent reality beyond time itself. Helps overcome fear of death and change.
Names for Specific Blessings
Kripanidhaye (Ocean of Compassion): For those seeking forgiveness and divine mercy.
Bhaktavatsalaya (Lover of Devotees): For deepening your relationship with the divine.
Vishveshvaraya (Lord of Universe): For universal protection and cosmic consciousness.
Dakshaya (Capable One): For success in endeavors and skill development.
How to Chant the 108 Names on Monday
Traditional Method
Preparation:
- Wake up during Brahma Muhurta (1.5 hours before sunrise) if possible, or early morning
- Take a bath and wear clean clothes (white is ideal for Shiva worship)
- Create a sacred space with Shiva’s image or Shivalinga
- Light a ghee lamp and incense
- Offer water, bilva leaves, flowers (especially white flowers), and fruits
Chanting Process:
- Sit in a comfortable meditation posture facing east or north
- Take a few deep breaths to center yourself
- Hold a rudraksha mala (prayer beads) in your right hand
- Begin with “Om Namah Shivaya” 11 times
- Chant each of the 108 names with “Om” before and “Namaha” after
- Move one bead for each name
- Complete with “Om Namah Shivaya” 11 more times
- Sit in silent meditation for a few minutes
- Offer prostrations and prayers
Modern Adaptation for Busy Professionals
Quick Monday Morning Practice (20 minutes):
- Set your alarm 20 minutes earlier than usual
- Quick shower or wash face and hands
- Sit before a small Shiva image or picture
- Light a tea candle if traditional lamps aren’t available
- Chant the 108 names from your phone or a printed list
- You can read them continuously without counting beads
- Offer mental prostrations
- Carry this energy into your workday
NRI-Friendly Approach:
- Download a PDF of the 108 names to your phone
- Use apps like “Shiva 108 Names” for audio guidance
- Play recordings during morning commute
- Join virtual Monday morning Shiva worship groups online
- Adapt timings to your schedule—evening Monday works too
Benefits of Chanting Shiva’s 108 Names
Spiritual Benefits
Inner Transformation: Regular chanting dissolves ego, reduces attachment, and accelerates spiritual evolution. The vibrations of these sacred names purify consciousness.
Divine Connection: Establishes direct communication with Shiva’s energy. You’ll notice synchronicities, intuitive guidance, and a sense of divine protection.
Karmic Cleansing: The 108 names burn through negative karma from past actions, clearing obstacles to your spiritual progress.
Third Eye Activation: Particularly powerful for awakening higher consciousness and developing spiritual vision.
Material Benefits
Career Success: Chanting “Dakshaya” and “Sarvakarmane” brings capability and success in professional endeavors.
Financial Stability: Names like “Bhagavate” attract prosperity and remove financial obstacles.
Health Improvement: The vibrations of these names have healing properties, particularly for chronic illnesses and mental health issues.
Relationship Harmony: Names like “Ambikanathaya” and “Bhavaya” bring peace in relationships and family life.
Protection: “Ugrarupa” and “Virabhadraya” create a protective shield against negative energies, enemies, and accidents.
Psychological Benefits
Anxiety Relief: Monday morning Shiva worship reduces work-week anxiety and brings calm confidence.
Depression Management: The uplifting vibrations combat depressive thoughts and bring renewed hope.
Anger Control: Regular practice develops the patience and equanimity that Shiva embodies.
Fear Elimination: Connecting with Shiva, the fearless one, dissolves phobias and insecurities.
Focus Enhancement: The meditation aspect sharpens concentration and mental clarity.
Monday Fasting and Worship Guidelines
Types of Monday Fasts
Complete Fast (Nirjala): No food or water until evening worship. Only for those physically capable.
Partial Fast (Phalahar): Consume only fruits, milk, and water throughout the day.
Single Meal Fast (Ekadana): Eat one meal after evening prayers.
Modified Fast: Avoid grains, legumes, and non-vegetarian food. Eat light, sattvic foods.
What to Offer Lord Shiva
Essential Offerings:
- Water (especially Ganga water if available)
- Bilva (bael) leaves—Shiva’s favorite
- White flowers (jasmine, lotus)
- Durva grass
- Fruits (especially ber/jujube)
- Milk and honey
- Vibhuti (sacred ash)
Items to Avoid:
- Tulsi leaves (sacred to Vishnu, not offered to Shiva)
- Ketaki (screw pine) flowers
- Champak flowers
- Turmeric (offered to Devi, not Shiva)
Daily Monday Routine
Morning (Before Work):
- 5:00 AM: Wake and bathe
- 5:30 AM: Set up puja space
- 5:45 AM: Chant 108 names
- 6:15 AM: Meditation and prayers
- 6:30 AM: Proceed with daily routine
Evening (After Work):
- Visit a Shiva temple if possible
- Light evening lamp at home altar
- Offer special evening aarti
- Break fast with sattvic food
- Avoid non-vegetarian food even after breaking fast
Special Considerations for Different Life Situations
For Students
Focus on these names for academic success:
- Sarvagyaya (Omniscient)
- Mahabuddhaye (Supremely Wise)
- Jnanamurtaye (Embodiment of Knowledge)
- Sarvacharachara-Guraye (Universal Teacher)
Chant these with extra devotion before exams or while studying difficult subjects.
For Job Seekers
Emphasize these names:
- Dakshaya (Capable)
- Sarvakarmane (Performer of All Actions)
- Bhagavate (Divine Bestower)
- Kripanidhaye (Ocean of Compassion)
Offer special prayers for employment and career opportunities.
For Health Issues
Focus on:
- Mahaveeryaya (Supremely Valorous)
- Mahabalaya (Immensely Strong)
- Mahatejase (Immensely Radiant)
- Anantaya (Infinite Energy)
Offer bilva leaves and pray for healing and vitality.
For Relationship Problems
Meditate on:
- Ambikanathaya (Husband of Parvati)
- Ardhanareeshwaraya (Half-Woman Lord)
- Shankaraya (Giver of Joy)
- Shivaya (Auspicious One)
Pray for harmony and understanding in relationships.
For Spiritual Seekers
Concentrate on:
- Mahayogine (Great Yogi)
- Sadashivaya (Eternally Auspicious)
- Paramatmane (Supreme Soul)
- Lalatakshaya (Third Eye)
Seek guidance for deeper meditation and spiritual realization.
Scientific and Psychological Perspectives
Sound Vibration Science
Modern research in cymatics (study of sound vibrations) shows that Sanskrit mantras create specific geometric patterns. The 108 names of Shiva generate vibrations that:
- Synchronize brain hemispheres
- Reduce cortisol (stress hormone)
- Increase dopamine and serotonin
- Create coherence in heart rhythms
- Enhance immune system function
Neurological Effects
Repetitive Chanting:
- Activates the parasympathetic nervous system
- Reduces amygdala activity (fear center)
- Increases prefrontal cortex function (decision-making)
- Releases endorphins (natural pain relievers)
- Improves neuroplasticity (brain’s ability to change)
Psychological Benefits
Ritual and Routine: Monday morning worship creates beneficial psychological patterns:
- Provides structure and meaning
- Creates positive anticipation for the week
- Builds self-discipline and commitment
- Offers sense of control in uncertain times
- Connects individual to larger spiritual community
Common Questions About the 108 Names
Why 108?
The number 108 holds profound significance:
- 108 Upanishads in Hindu scripture
- 108 sacred sites (pithas) in India
- 108 marma points (energy centers) in the body
- Distance from Earth to Sun is approximately 108 times the Sun’s diameter
- Represents completeness and totality in Vedic mathematics
Can Women Chant During Menstruation?
Yes, absolutely. Shiva, the ascetic who transcends all dualities, sees beyond physical states. Women can chant the 108 names during their cycle. If cultural sensitivities prevent temple visits, practice at home with full devotion.
What if I Don’t Have Time for All 108?
Quality over quantity. Chant even 11 names with complete focus rather than rushing through 108 mechanically. Start small and gradually increase. Shiva values sincere devotion over elaborate ritual.
Can Non-Hindus Chant These Names?
These sacred names are universal tools for spiritual development. Anyone seeking connection with divine consciousness, inner peace, or spiritual growth can chant them respectfully. The divine doesn’t discriminate based on birth or labels.
What Language Should I Use?
Sanskrit carries specific vibrations, but understanding matters too. You can:
- Chant in Sanskrit for vibrational power
- Read translations to understand meanings
- Combine both—Sanskrit chanting with English understanding
- Use your native language if that deepens your connection
How Soon Will I See Results?
Spiritual practice works beyond linear time:
- Immediate: Sense of peace and mental clarity
- Within weeks: Improved focus and reduced anxiety
- Within months: Life circumstances begin shifting
- Long-term: Profound inner transformation
Consistency matters more than intensity.
Creating a Monday Shiva Sadhana (Spiritual Practice)
Four-Week Progressive Plan
Week 1: Establishing the Habit
- Chant all 108 names once, even if reading them
- Don’t worry about pronunciation perfection
- Focus on showing up consistently
- Notice how you feel before and after
Week 2: Deepening Practice
- Begin learning correct pronunciation
- Try chanting from memory for your favorite 11 names
- Add simple offerings (water, flowers)
- Extend meditation time by 5 minutes
Week 3: Adding Discipline
- Attempt a Monday fast (start with partial)
- Wake up 15 minutes earlier
- Add evening aarti or prayer
- Study meanings of names you chant
Week 4: Integration
- Chant with rudraksha mala
- Maintain awareness of Shiva presence throughout Monday
- Notice how Monday worship affects your entire week
- Consider extending practice beyond Monday
Long-Term Practice Development
Three Months: The practice becomes effortless habit. You’ll notice clear improvements in mental state and life circumstances.
Six Months: Deep transformation begins. Old patterns dissolve, new opportunities emerge.
One Year: You’ll have a unshakeable spiritual foundation. The practice becomes non-negotiable part of your life.
Lifelong: The 108 names become your refuge, strength, and constant companion through all of life’s changes.
Connecting Online: Resources for Modern Devotees
Recommended Apps
- Shiva 108 Names: Audio and text versions
- Hindu Calendar: Track Monday tithis accurately
- Rudrabhishek: Complete Shiva worship guide
- Meditation Timer: For timing your practice
Online Communities
- YouTube channels offering live Monday prayers
- WhatsApp groups for Monday fasting devotees
- Reddit communities: r/hinduism, r/Shiva
- Instagram accounts sharing daily Shiva wisdom
Virtual Temples
Many major Shiva temples now offer:
- Live darshan streaming
- Online puja booking
- Digital prasadam blessings
- Virtual question-answer sessions with priests
Conclusion: Transform Your Mondays, Transform Your Life
The 108 names of Lord Shiva are not merely words—they are vibrations of cosmic consciousness, keys to unlock your highest potential, and bridges to divine protection. Monday offers you 52 opportunities each year to reset, recharge, and realign with your spiritual core.
In our fast-paced modern world, where Monday often symbolizes stress and the beginning of weekly struggles, transforming it into a sacred practice changes everything. You’re not just chanting names; you’re invoking the very qualities they represent into your life.
Whether you’re in Mumbai or Manhattan, Delhi or Dubai, in a traditional joint family or living alone abroad, these names connect you to millions of devotees across time and space who have found solace, strength, and salvation through Shiva worship.
Start this Monday. Light a lamp. Sit quietly. Begin with “Om Namah Shivaya.” Let Shiva’s grace flow into your life.
Har Har Mahadev!
May Lord Shiva bless you with fearlessness, wisdom, and eternal peace. May every Monday become a doorway to divine transformation.
Om Namah Shivaya | ॐ नमः शिवाय
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