Shiva Ashtottara Shatanamavali — Benefits & How to Chant
शिव अष्टोत्तर शतनामावली
Complete guide to chanting correctly for maximum benefit
Benefits of Chanting Shiva Ashtottara Shatanamavali
Reciting the 108 names invokes the complete grace and presence of Lord Shiva
Each name meditated upon purifies the mind and dissolves accumulated sins
Ideal for archana
offering bilva leaves or flowers at each name during puja
Bestows peace, protection, health and freedom from fear
The names of Mrityunjaya and Kalakala protect against untimely death
Cultivates devotion by revealing Shiva in his gentle, fierce and cosmic forms
Regular recitation on Mondays and Shivaratri draws abundant blessings
How to Chant Shiva Ashtottara Shatanamavali
Instructions
Sit before a Shiva Lingam or image after bathing. If performing archana, keep 108 bilva (bel) leaves or flowers ready and offer one at the Lingam with each name as you say 'Om ... Namah.' Begin and end with 'Om Namah Shivaya.' Chant the full list of 108 names with devotion and a calm mind. Conclude by bowing and praying for Shiva's grace.
Spiritual Significance
It is traditionally held that one who offers worship through Shiva's 108 names with a pure heart is freed from sin and untimely death — the names Mrityunjaya (conqueror of death) and Kalakala (death of Death) in this very litany recall how Shiva shields his devotees from the fear of mortality.
Origin & History
Source: Puranic tradition (the 108 names of Shiva, as found across the Shiva and Skanda Puranas)
Author: Traditional (Puranic)
The custom of worshipping a deity through 108 of his names (ashtottara-shatanama) is woven throughout the Puranas. Shiva's 108 names gather together the many faces of the Lord that appear across his myths — the auspicious Shambhu, the ash-clad ascetic, the slayer of Tripura, the conqueror of death, the cosmic Rudra of eight forms. Devotees have for ages used this namavali for daily archana, offering a bilva leaf at each name, regarding it as a complete and especially dear form of Shiva worship.