In most temples, we walk in a full circle around the idol. This is called pradakshina or circumambulation. But when we visit a Shiva temple, especially where there is a Shiva Lingam, we do only a half pradakshina. We do not complete the full round.
This is not just tradition—it also has a scientific and spiritual reason.
When we walk around a deity, we receive divine energy from the idol. This happens best in temples where regular pujas are performed properly, by knowledgeable priests following the ancient rituals. These idols are full of spiritual vibrations, and they share this energy with devotees during pradakshina.
But this is not always true in ordinary or roadside temples, where pujas are not done with the same devotion or according to sacred rules. Sometimes the idols are not installed with the prana pratishtha ceremony (ritual of giving life to the idol), so they may not have that spiritual power.
Now, in the case of the Shiva Lingam, the energy behaves differently because of its unique shape. The Lingam stands on a base called the yoni, which represents the divine feminine. From the mouth or opening of the yoni, the energy flows out very strongly—much stronger than in other idols.
Because this powerful energy flows directly outward, it is believed that crossing in front of the yoni—especially with the lower part of the body facing it—can be harmful, especially for male devotees. This is because the body’s internal winds or energies, especially those connected with reproduction, may be disturbed by this force.
That is why, when we do pradakshina around the Shiva Lingam, we: ✅ Start from the left side of the yoni,
✅ Walk behind the lingam,
✅ Stop at the right side,
✅ And then return back without crossing the front of the yoni.
This is the traditional and correct way to show respect and also protect ourselves from the forceful energy coming out from the idol.
ASTRO GIVA 