When offering Belpatra (Bilva Patra) on Shivling, according to Hindu scriptures and traditional worship practices, it should be offered in a specific way. Here is how to offer it correctly and where not to place it:
Where to offer Belpatra on Shivling:
❀ The Belpatra should be placed on the central cylindrical part (the vertical part of the lingam, also called the linga).
❀ The smooth side of the Belpatra should face upwards, and the petiole (vrintha) of the leaf should face away from the deity.
❀ Place it gently, reverently, preferably after washing the leaf.
❀ Maintaining the Triparni (three-leafed) structure: The Belpatra should ideally have three joined leaves (which symbolises Lord Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva or the three eyes of Shiva).
Where Belpatra should not be placed:
❀ Not on Yoni base (rounded bottom part): Do not place Belpatra on the rounded base (Yoni Peeth) of Shivling, which symbolizes Shakti (divine energy of femininity). This area is used for pouring water or milk and is not for offerings.
❀ Do not block the drainage (naala): Make sure the leaf does not block the drainage (naala) through which water or milk flows out during abhishekam (ritual bath). Blocking it is considered inauspicious.
❀ Avoid torn, dry or damaged Belpatra: Do not offer dry, torn or insect-eaten Belpatra. Only fresh and clean Belpatra are acceptable.
While offering Belpatra on Shivling, chant the mantra:
"Om Namah Shivaya"
"Bilvapatram Samarpayami"
❀ Place it gently on the top (linga) of the Shivlinga - not on the base.
❀ If possible, place all three Belpatras touching the Shivlinga.
❀ Place 3 or more Belpatras in odd numbers (3, 5, 7, etc.) as per your wish or vow.
Additional Offering
❀ If available, offer white flowers, Dhatura, sandalwood paste and ashes.
❀ Burn camphor or perform aarti with ghee lamp.
❀ Chant:
"Om Trimbakam Yajamahe Sugandhi Pushtivardhanam..."
(Mahamrityunjaya Mantra)
Read Here:
Mahamrityunjay Mantra
Prayer and Conclusion
❀ With folded hands, pray with a sincere heart, seeking blessings, peace and protection.
❀ If observing a fast or Sankalp, repeat your vow or wish silently.
❀ Conclude with Aarti and prasad, and distribute it if in a group.