Baidyanath (Vaidyanath) Jyotirlinga
వైద్యనాథ్
Lord Shiva as Vaidyanath (lord of physicians/healing) · Deoghar, Jharkhand
Baidyanath (Vaidyanath) Jyotirlinga is one of the 12 sacred manifestations of Lord Shiva as a self-manifest pillar of light (jyoti-linga). Located in Deoghar, Jharkhand. Center of Shravan Mela — millions of Kanwariyas walk barefoot from the Ganga at Sultanganj (108 km) carrying holy water for Shiva. Note: there is dispute between Deoghar and Parli (Maharashtra) for this Jyotirlinga.
Significance
Center of Shravan Mela — millions of Kanwariyas walk barefoot from the Ganga at Sultanganj (108 km) carrying holy water for Shiva. Note: there is dispute between Deoghar and Parli (Maharashtra) for this Jyotirlinga.
Mythological Origin
Ravana attempted to take the Linga to Lanka but was prevented by Vishnu. The Linga settled at Deoghar where it remains. Shiva manifested as the healer of all afflictions.
About the 12 Jyotirlingas
The 12 Jyotirlingas are the holiest Shiva pilgrimage sites in India. Per the Shiva Mahapurana, when devotees compete to claim Lord Shiva's primacy, he manifested as an infinite pillar of light (jyoti-stambha) at 12 sacred locations. Devotees visiting all 12 in a single lifetime is one of the highest pilgrimages (Dwadasha Jyotirlinga Yatra). Reciting the 12-line Jyotirlinga Stotra ("Saurashtre Somanatham...") daily is said to grant the merit of physical pilgrimage to all 12.